Photo of Michael F Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Michael F Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I have extensive experience treating relationship issues, anxiety, depression, couples issues, all forms of addiction issues, substance abuse, childhood trauma, codependency, issues related to growing up in a dysfunctional family and self esteem difficulties.
Feeling overly stressed, disconnected in relationships or just going through a down turn can be very uncomfortable. If you are struggling to figure your situation on your own, I can provide hope, connection and strategies to address current stressors as well as behavior patterns that may have started in childhood. Seeking a therapist thats a good fit for you can be stressful as well. Great things can happen when you do find the right fit. This is very important to me. I am down to earth, experienced in life and have a talent for bringing out the best in people.
I have extensive experience treating relationship issues, anxiety, depression, couples issues, all forms of addiction issues, substance abuse, childhood trauma, codependency, issues related to growing up in a dysfunctional family and self esteem difficulties.
Feeling overly stressed, disconnected in relationships or just going through a down turn can be very uncomfortable. If you are struggling to figure your situation on your own, I can provide hope, connection and strategies to address current stressors as well as behavior patterns that may have started in childhood. Seeking a therapist thats a good fit for you can be stressful as well. Great things can happen when you do find the right fit. This is very important to me. I am down to earth, experienced in life and have a talent for bringing out the best in people.
(949) 391-4069 View (949) 391-4069
Photo of Dr. Michael B Ferguson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Dr. Michael B Ferguson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677  (Online Only)
I have worked in Mental Healthcare for more than 40 years and specialize in Mood Disorders, i.e., Anxiety and Depression, which are frequently pre-existing conditions for more than 50% of patients with Alcohol and/or Drug addiction. I also treat Bipolar Disorders and ADD which are frequently medicated at home with alcohol and illicit drugs. I provide Christian counseling for those who prefer a Scriptural approach to their issues. Individual, couples and family counseling is available for those experiencing Marital Discord, Domestic Abuse and other family related issues. Outpatient Detox and Rehab available.
I have worked in Mental Healthcare for more than 40 years and specialize in Mood Disorders, i.e., Anxiety and Depression, which are frequently pre-existing conditions for more than 50% of patients with Alcohol and/or Drug addiction. I also treat Bipolar Disorders and ADD which are frequently medicated at home with alcohol and illicit drugs. I provide Christian counseling for those who prefer a Scriptural approach to their issues. Individual, couples and family counseling is available for those experiencing Marital Discord, Domestic Abuse and other family related issues. Outpatient Detox and Rehab available.
(949) 485-4210 View (949) 485-4210
Photo of Steve Rockman, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Steve Rockman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
The treatment methods that I use include behavior therapy,psychodynamic therapy,structural family therapy, EMDR, Bioenergetic therapy, group therapy.
Having been a therapist for over thirty years, I love being able to make a difference in people's lives. My mission is to get my patients better as quickly as possible. Although I do long term therapy,the majority of my patients significantly improve in less than ten visits. Treating adults and children, I work with relationships,families,and individuals. As the clinical supervisor of THE HOPE INSTITUTE,I am experienced in treating teens and their families. Typical problems of teens include chemical dependency,Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar Disorder,Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Conduct Disorders,Academic Problems,behavior problems.
The treatment methods that I use include behavior therapy,psychodynamic therapy,structural family therapy, EMDR, Bioenergetic therapy, group therapy.
Having been a therapist for over thirty years, I love being able to make a difference in people's lives. My mission is to get my patients better as quickly as possible. Although I do long term therapy,the majority of my patients significantly improve in less than ten visits. Treating adults and children, I work with relationships,families,and individuals. As the clinical supervisor of THE HOPE INSTITUTE,I am experienced in treating teens and their families. Typical problems of teens include chemical dependency,Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar Disorder,Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Conduct Disorders,Academic Problems,behavior problems.
(949) 230-9602 View (949) 230-9602
Photo of Philip Silverman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Philip Silverman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
My name is Phil Silverman, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA. I work primarily from a psychodynamic framework, with a focus not only on symptom relief but on making substantive changes and assisting individuals in breaking free from unhealthy and unhelpful patterns impacting their well-being, career, and relationships. Traumas can result in unconscious "triggers" that wreak havoc on a person’s goals for health, intimacy, success, sense of connection, or even the ability to process grief, and can manifest in the form of unmanageable anxiety, depression, substance use, existential dilemmas, self-sabotage, feeling stuck, etc.
My name is Phil Silverman, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA. I work primarily from a psychodynamic framework, with a focus not only on symptom relief but on making substantive changes and assisting individuals in breaking free from unhealthy and unhelpful patterns impacting their well-being, career, and relationships. Traumas can result in unconscious "triggers" that wreak havoc on a person’s goals for health, intimacy, success, sense of connection, or even the ability to process grief, and can manifest in the form of unmanageable anxiety, depression, substance use, existential dilemmas, self-sabotage, feeling stuck, etc.
(949) 356-7611 View (949) 356-7611
Photo of Leonard Szymczak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Leonard Szymczak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
For the past 40 years, I worked in Australia & America as a therapist and educator. I was Director of the Family Therapy Program in Sydney and later worked with the Family Institute at Northwestern University. Since I am also a writer, I see you as the main character in your personal story called to face & transform adversity into personal happiness. I help individuals overcome anxiety & depression & help couples improve communication, resolve conflict, and increase love & intimacy. I am the co-author of "Power Tools for Men: A Blueprint for Healthy Masculinity" & co-author of "Fighting for Love: Turn Conflict into Intimacy."
For the past 40 years, I worked in Australia & America as a therapist and educator. I was Director of the Family Therapy Program in Sydney and later worked with the Family Institute at Northwestern University. Since I am also a writer, I see you as the main character in your personal story called to face & transform adversity into personal happiness. I help individuals overcome anxiety & depression & help couples improve communication, resolve conflict, and increase love & intimacy. I am the co-author of "Power Tools for Men: A Blueprint for Healthy Masculinity" & co-author of "Fighting for Love: Turn Conflict into Intimacy."
(949) 625-6704 View (949) 625-6704
Photo of Solution-Driven Change, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Solution-Driven Change
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I work with adults (including seniors), and adolescents in individual, group, relationship, and family therapy.
As a SOLUTION-DRIVEN psychologist, I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), a focused, problem solving psychotherapy, highly effective in treating depression, anxiety, stress, anger, substance use problems (including gaming addiction), and relationship distress. CBT is designed to provide symptom relief and personality change, prevent future symptomatic episodes, enhance quality of life, promote adaptive functioning in work/school and relationships, and increase the likelihood of making healthy and satisfying life choices.
I work with adults (including seniors), and adolescents in individual, group, relationship, and family therapy.
As a SOLUTION-DRIVEN psychologist, I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), a focused, problem solving psychotherapy, highly effective in treating depression, anxiety, stress, anger, substance use problems (including gaming addiction), and relationship distress. CBT is designed to provide symptom relief and personality change, prevent future symptomatic episodes, enhance quality of life, promote adaptive functioning in work/school and relationships, and increase the likelihood of making healthy and satisfying life choices.
(949) 391-2983 View (949) 391-2983
Photo of Ronald A. Bacon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Ronald A. Bacon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MDiv, MSM
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I treat the family as an emotional unit.
I have have worked with hundreds of families over the years to provide a clear, unbiased place to transform unhappiness into satisfaction. I have effective strategies to help my clients transform their current pain into relationship satisfaction. I specialize in consulting with those who love someone who is an alcoholic or addict in ways to remain in contact without remaining a part of the chaos that accompanies an active substance use disorder. I am also very comfortable dealing with spiritual issues from a Biblical perspective.
I treat the family as an emotional unit.
I have have worked with hundreds of families over the years to provide a clear, unbiased place to transform unhappiness into satisfaction. I have effective strategies to help my clients transform their current pain into relationship satisfaction. I specialize in consulting with those who love someone who is an alcoholic or addict in ways to remain in contact without remaining a part of the chaos that accompanies an active substance use disorder. I am also very comfortable dealing with spiritual issues from a Biblical perspective.
(949) 273-2902 View (949) 273-2902
Photo of Dr. Evan Fewsmith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Dr. Evan Fewsmith
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I hold a Master's degree in Family Therapy and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.
I know how hard it is to look for the right therapist. Before you make a appointment, it is my sincere attempt here to explain who I am and how I work. I provide individual sessions based on a foundation of trust, genuineness and respect. I work with clients by educating them, processing thoughts and feelings, exploring options, and directing new ways to interact. I believe everyone has the ability to grow if given an opportunity to be coached and supported by a trusted therapist. I possess a large repertoire of psychological interventions and tools to draw from. I work differently and individually with each and every client.
I hold a Master's degree in Family Therapy and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.
I know how hard it is to look for the right therapist. Before you make a appointment, it is my sincere attempt here to explain who I am and how I work. I provide individual sessions based on a foundation of trust, genuineness and respect. I work with clients by educating them, processing thoughts and feelings, exploring options, and directing new ways to interact. I believe everyone has the ability to grow if given an opportunity to be coached and supported by a trusted therapist. I possess a large repertoire of psychological interventions and tools to draw from. I work differently and individually with each and every client.
(949) 249-9040 View (949) 249-9040
Photo of Robert Bancroft, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Robert Bancroft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
My name is Robert Bancroft, but I usually go by Bob. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. Much of my experience has been with pre-adolescents, adolescents, and young adults. I find this experience helpful with all ages of clients and families, as these are very formative and significant times in most clients' lives. I have helped clients succeed and grow, facing every level of trauma possible. I practice Client-Centered and Trauma Informed individual psychotherapy. I use Structural Family Therapy with families and as a framework to help individuals understand their own family dynamics.
My name is Robert Bancroft, but I usually go by Bob. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. Much of my experience has been with pre-adolescents, adolescents, and young adults. I find this experience helpful with all ages of clients and families, as these are very formative and significant times in most clients' lives. I have helped clients succeed and grow, facing every level of trauma possible. I practice Client-Centered and Trauma Informed individual psychotherapy. I use Structural Family Therapy with families and as a framework to help individuals understand their own family dynamics.
(805) 301-6553 View (805) 301-6553
Photo of Wave After Wave Counseling, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Laguna Niguel, CA
Wave After Wave Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Your son is definitely going through something. You're worried about the pre-teen, teen, or young adult in your life. He seems down, depressed, discouraged, but then just tunes out the world with his screens. He's anxious, dealing with pressure, school, friends, & he needs to face his struggles. He won't open up much to you or other family members. He seems to be isolating more - you think he might have some addiction going on. He's not as interested in his usual activities. You're basically concerned about the direction of his life. What you really want is your kid to be happy, motivated, and moving in a better direction.
Your son is definitely going through something. You're worried about the pre-teen, teen, or young adult in your life. He seems down, depressed, discouraged, but then just tunes out the world with his screens. He's anxious, dealing with pressure, school, friends, & he needs to face his struggles. He won't open up much to you or other family members. He seems to be isolating more - you think he might have some addiction going on. He's not as interested in his usual activities. You're basically concerned about the direction of his life. What you really want is your kid to be happy, motivated, and moving in a better direction.
(949) 334-2376 View (949) 334-2376
Photo of Bob Baker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Bob Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I kept my office open during the COVID Crisis but when it ended people did not want to come to an office. I simi-retired & work through Zoom. I have lowered my fee to reflect the benefit of working online. While it is not my preferred way of working with clients, it allows me to continue to work. I left Saddleback Church where I was the Pastor of Pastoral Care for 17+years. I've been a licensed marriage & family counselor for 35+ years. I respect the fact that everyone needs to make a personal decision about their faith but I do approach therapy using Christian perspectives & values.
I kept my office open during the COVID Crisis but when it ended people did not want to come to an office. I simi-retired & work through Zoom. I have lowered my fee to reflect the benefit of working online. While it is not my preferred way of working with clients, it allows me to continue to work. I left Saddleback Church where I was the Pastor of Pastoral Care for 17+years. I've been a licensed marriage & family counselor for 35+ years. I respect the fact that everyone needs to make a personal decision about their faith but I do approach therapy using Christian perspectives & values.
(949) 518-3753 View (949) 518-3753
Photo of Pratik U Patel, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Pratik U Patel
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life may be difficult, therapy doesn't have to be. With simple and straightforward approaches we can understand and identify the sources of your troubles. I have experience working with people with diverse backgrounds and can help you shed light on your troubles with the added bonus of learning more about yourself! Together we can create a plan of action that works for you. Contact me when your time is right and I'll be happy to answer any questions you might have and get you scheduled right away. Everyone is different but we all need space to work through difficulties; let's create yours!
Life may be difficult, therapy doesn't have to be. With simple and straightforward approaches we can understand and identify the sources of your troubles. I have experience working with people with diverse backgrounds and can help you shed light on your troubles with the added bonus of learning more about yourself! Together we can create a plan of action that works for you. Contact me when your time is right and I'll be happy to answer any questions you might have and get you scheduled right away. Everyone is different but we all need space to work through difficulties; let's create yours!
(323) 402-5279 View (323) 402-5279
Photo of Christopher Hawkey, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Christopher Hawkey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677  (Online Only)
Welcome! Many people who find their way to my profile are in search of relief. Some are seeking peace in a life dominated by big and difficult-to-control emotions. Others hope to free themselves from a seemingly never-ending battle with sadness or worry thoughts. Some just want to sleep or learn to live without the weight of past traumatic events. Regardless of the specific reason for your visit here, you are undoubtedly on a path to reduce your suffering and maximize your fulfillment in this one precious life.
Welcome! Many people who find their way to my profile are in search of relief. Some are seeking peace in a life dominated by big and difficult-to-control emotions. Others hope to free themselves from a seemingly never-ending battle with sadness or worry thoughts. Some just want to sleep or learn to live without the weight of past traumatic events. Regardless of the specific reason for your visit here, you are undoubtedly on a path to reduce your suffering and maximize your fulfillment in this one precious life.
(949) 919-5507 View (949) 919-5507
Photo of Dr. Brian F. Licuanan, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Dr. Brian F. Licuanan
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677  (Online Only)
Dr. Licuanan is a board-certified psychologist, author, & speaker who treats a wide-variety of issues. Most commonly, clients seek his assistance for depression, anxiety, relationships, and substance dependence. Additionally, his M.S. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology--field of study focused on the workplace including leadership, motivation, job satisfaction, etc., is integrated into treatment for clients needing assistance with career-related concerns. Dr. Licuanan attained his Ph.D. and M.S. from the University of Oklahoma and M.A. from Pepperdine University.
Dr. Licuanan is a board-certified psychologist, author, & speaker who treats a wide-variety of issues. Most commonly, clients seek his assistance for depression, anxiety, relationships, and substance dependence. Additionally, his M.S. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology--field of study focused on the workplace including leadership, motivation, job satisfaction, etc., is integrated into treatment for clients needing assistance with career-related concerns. Dr. Licuanan attained his Ph.D. and M.S. from the University of Oklahoma and M.A. from Pepperdine University.
(714) 408-2821 View (714) 408-2821
Photo of Randy Moraitis, Counselor in Laguna Niguel, CA
Randy Moraitis
Counselor, MA, CIP, BCPC, CADC II, ICADC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I love helping people get healthy and successful through coaching, counseling and interventions, and I truly care about my clients. I am well known for getting results, that's why many of my clients include therapists, physicians, CEO's, attorneys, and dentists. I will guide you or your loved one to achieve major breakthroughs in relationships, career, finances, spiritual life, emotional life and health and wellness. And, if you have a loved one affected by addiction or mental health issues, I would be honored to do an intervention to get them into treatment, and provide counseling services to help prevent relapse after treatment.
I love helping people get healthy and successful through coaching, counseling and interventions, and I truly care about my clients. I am well known for getting results, that's why many of my clients include therapists, physicians, CEO's, attorneys, and dentists. I will guide you or your loved one to achieve major breakthroughs in relationships, career, finances, spiritual life, emotional life and health and wellness. And, if you have a loved one affected by addiction or mental health issues, I would be honored to do an intervention to get them into treatment, and provide counseling services to help prevent relapse after treatment.
(949) 383-5443 View (949) 383-5443
Photo of Cort Curtis, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Cort Curtis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Hello and welcome to my practice. I am a licensed psychologist with over 44 years of experience practicing psychotherapy with individuals and couples. When you are feeling troubled and don't know where to turn, therapy can be a safe place to work through your difficulties and concerns. Many of us would rather try to deal with problems on our own; but when you are feeling "stuck" or when problems keep repeating, an objective person who knows how to listen can help you through a difficult time.
Hello and welcome to my practice. I am a licensed psychologist with over 44 years of experience practicing psychotherapy with individuals and couples. When you are feeling troubled and don't know where to turn, therapy can be a safe place to work through your difficulties and concerns. Many of us would rather try to deal with problems on our own; but when you are feeling "stuck" or when problems keep repeating, an objective person who knows how to listen can help you through a difficult time.
(855) 531-4416 View (855) 531-4416
Photo of Brian Thompson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Brian Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, CATC-IV, CHT, CCA, CI, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I am looking for clients that are ready to get to work and make lasting change possible in their lives. My style is centered on creating a direct partnership with my clients in order to make change happen rather than continue to sit in the problem. I am very well versed in working with all aspects of addiction, anxiety, depression, life changes, sexual abuse, trauma & PTSD, and day to day living concerns, to name a few, for all individuals, couples & families.
I am looking for clients that are ready to get to work and make lasting change possible in their lives. My style is centered on creating a direct partnership with my clients in order to make change happen rather than continue to sit in the problem. I am very well versed in working with all aspects of addiction, anxiety, depression, life changes, sexual abuse, trauma & PTSD, and day to day living concerns, to name a few, for all individuals, couples & families.
(714) 942-2736 View (714) 942-2736
Photo of Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 694-3836 View (949) 694-3836
Photo of Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 328-6161 View (949) 328-6161
Photo of Patrick Aleknavicius, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Patrick Aleknavicius
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I am a firm believer in thorough evaluation early on in the therapy process. I frequently use my expertise in psychological testing to assist in this diagnostic process to ensure the most effective and appropriate treatments are used. While the human condition allows for great challenges and pain, it also allows for miraculous opportunities for healing and growth. Therapy is a collaborative relationship. I focus treatment on a combination of providing information, skill building, and evidence based treatments. Being tech-interested also helps me connect with younger clients, and bridge the gap of resistance to change or getting help.
I am a firm believer in thorough evaluation early on in the therapy process. I frequently use my expertise in psychological testing to assist in this diagnostic process to ensure the most effective and appropriate treatments are used. While the human condition allows for great challenges and pain, it also allows for miraculous opportunities for healing and growth. Therapy is a collaborative relationship. I focus treatment on a combination of providing information, skill building, and evidence based treatments. Being tech-interested also helps me connect with younger clients, and bridge the gap of resistance to change or getting help.
(866) 660-5367 View (866) 660-5367

See more therapy options for Laguna Niguel

Male Therapists

As a man, why might I want to see a male therapist?

There are many reasons a man might wish to work with a male therapist, including a degree of shared identity, which may help client and therapist connect to each other and allow for a more free-flowing discussion of issues that can be deeply personal. Some men may feel more comfortable talking to a male therapist about relationship concerns, the pressures they feel around the roles society and family place on men, career or job challenges, self-esteem, or anger problems. For some men who have not had a male role models in their lives, a good male therapist may be especially helpful.

How can I find out about a therapist’s experience treating men?

Individuals looking for treatment should feel comfortable directly asking a therapist about their history treating men overall and the issues that arise in therapy with men. A good therapist will be happy to discuss such matters as well as their educational background, approach to treatment, and how they think they can aid a prospective client. Prospective clients should also ask what the expectation is for treatment, and what the fee structure is, and whether and which insurance plans are accepted.

Can clients benefit from having a therapist of the same gender?

Therapy is not gender-specific, but some men as well as women feel more comfortable opening up about their experiences and history with a male therapist. An individual may feel that they have to explain less background information and be on the same page more quickly, particularly when discussing gender-specific challenges, in the case of male clients. Some women have prior negative experiences with women that predispose them to prefer working with a male in therapy. That said, a good clinician can transcend most if not all gender concerns. Ultimately, the most important factor in therapy is the connection and trust the client is able to build with the practitioner.

Would a male therapist have specific training in treating men?

Generally, no. There are no certifications for treating men specifically, but there are continuing education classes that therapists may take that focus on treating men as a group. There are many therapists who focus on men and male issues in their treatment and therefore have experience and expertise in this domain.