Why is there a stigma around men in therapy?
First, often times, men receive messages that it is not okay to cry. If a boy shows too much emotion, they are called “girly,” in a derogatory way. This creates cultural shame. As well, men often grow up thinking that they are weak if they show emotion. Men are told that they have to be the protectors and the breadwinners. If they don’t preform sexually, they are told they are inadequate by society. And, this puts a lot of pressure on men emotionally. As well, men learn from a young age that they have to fit into a socially appropriate box. And, if they don’t fit into that box, they are not seen as a manly man. If a man goes through unemployment, they can feel inferior and in adequate. As well, if a man has a job that feels unfulfilling, it can feel emasculating. Therefore, holistic therapy for men in New London, CT allows men to feel confident expressing their feelings. As well, men who grew up with a parent who didn’t show emotion can use a theraputic role model to help with emotional expression. In counseling, you can build tools for self-care and ways to let go of negative behaviors like drinking too much.
To continue, men reach out for therapy for a number of reasons. Sometimes, a spouse is complaining that a marriage isn’t satisfying anymore. Maybe, your spouse wants you to find a couples therapist. And, this marital issue is inspiring you to call a professional to come on the road and journey. At times, men desire counseling because they want to be more emotionally expressive. Right now, it might feel like you are living with tension, muscle pain, headaches, trouble sleeping, or even have depression. These are all great reasons to reach out and work with a counselor. Body pain often is connected to mental health. Often times, mental health distress, confusion, anxiety, and even body image issues play a role in a man’s confidence level. Frequently, we work with men who develop eating disorders. Our therapists also specialize with men of all ages who think negatively or critically about their bodies. Being a man in the world means there is already a level of competition. For one, it can feel like you have to be perfect and that no matter what you do, you will never be good enough. We help men nurture themselves and be gentle with themselves.
How do the Wisdom Within Counseling therapists help men feel comfortable going to therapy?
Secondly, reaching out for therapy can be a big step. For one, you may be thinking you want help from someone outside your family. Or, you want help learning anxiety skills. Remember, reaching out and asking for help through therapy is a sign of strength. As well, just like you would go to math class or woodworking class, therapy can be a place for learning emotional coping strategies.
Holistic therapy for men in New London, CT supports a healthy outlet for grief and loss.
In life, it is hard to lose a loved one or close friend. And, it can leave you feeling lost and hopeless. If you have gone through grief or loss recently, therapy for men in New London, CT can be a place to talk about this and to cry. Losses can leave you feeling empty. Our therapists work with men who have experienced loss of a child, loss of a spouse, loss of grandparent, as well as loss of a good friend. As well, processing grief and loss around childhood trauma can be really beneficial in therapy. Frequently, cheating, lying, drinking issues, alcoholism, and impulsive behaviors result from trauma and loss that is not resolved. For example, you can process grief and loss by going for a walking session by the beach or by sitting on a cozy couch. For mind body therapies, you can choose from a holistic approach incorporating yoga and movement. As well, therapy for men in New London, CT includes meditation to build inner peace. Your therapist can incorporate spirituality to help you gain a newfound sense of hope and create healing after trauma and loss.
How does therapy for men in New London, CT support a healthy marriage?
We work with men who are looking to build togetherness in their marriage through counseling. Working with a professional therapist can help improve trust, communication, and emotional intimacy, helping your whole family. Think about all of the positives that can come from having a safe place to unload stress. Additionally, we find that when men build a coping tool box, calmer communication happens at home.
In what ways can therapy for men help with emotional connection and talking about feelings?
For one, our culture tells us that it’s not OK to talk about feelings. As well, many men receive messages that if they talk about their feelings, no one will care. From a young age, gender roles and gender stereotypes tell men that they are weak if they express their emotions. Frequently, the easiest emotion for men to show is anger. Rage, aggression, and frustration are common reasons why men see counseling. After loss, trauma, or another big event, it is common to find yourself angry. If you find yourself irritable, or tense, therapy can really help you uncover what might be beneath your anger. Talking with someone who can help you get in touch with the source of different feelings. For instance, you can have a safe place to talk about jealousy, sadness, insecurity, betrayal.
In conclusion, counseling is a great way to deal with the stressors of family life. As life throws problems your way, you and your therapist can slow down and make clear decisions. When it comes to love, dating, and expressing emotions, your therapist can help you reach your goals that you might not be able to reach alone. So, whether your spouse has recently been diagnosed with a chronic condition or your child is causing a lot of distress in your parental unit, our family therapists can help.
