Being a young male in today’s society comes with unique challenges and pressures. Research indicates that boys aged five to twelve are twice as likely to be regarded as hyperactive or aggressive compared with same-age female peers. Boys and young men, therefore, are more frequently labeled “problem kids.” Such messages can become internalized and compromise boys’ self-worth as they work to find their voice in an increasingly complicated world.
Boys, and to a greater extent, young men, have two personas, a public and private one, and therapy is most effective when both aspects are welcomed. The public persona sometimes frustrates parents, as he “just won’t talk” about problems and concerns. The ‘private self’ secretly harbors a rich and complex emotional life that has traditionally been the focus of psychotherapy. I understand it takes patience and openness to invite the whole boy into the treatment space, and I do so without placing expectations on him. In this way, I reach a young man’s rich, internal life and help him develop a holistic identity in which both his public and private selves can be valued and celebrated.
Honoring the active, playful, and sometimes painful process of male identity formation gives young men the space and support they need to define masculinity for themselves. When boys are seen and heard for all they are, that’s when they talk, and therapists can listen.
I provide treatment geared toward the individual, developing a plan supporting his specific needs and challenges. I identify a young man’s goals and then build upon existing skills, knowledge, and strengths to serve these goals. This therapeutic style supports self-efficacy and can be an adjunct to family therapy or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Some boys and young men are off-put by any stigma associated with therapy as an indication that "something is wrong with them." I encourage parents to have their children consider a "sports mentality" when considering working with me. If they see me as more of a "coach" than a "therapist," it may be more relatable for them, as "coaches" help one go from good to better. It doesn't mean anything is wrong with your son.
SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE FOR:
- Behavior management and self-regulation
- A Strengths-Based Approach to Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
- Developmental concerns, including identity formation
- Improving emotional awareness
- Issues with Friendship
- Anxiety/Stress
- Low self-esteem
- Loss and Grief
- Depression
- Bipolar Disorder
- Trauma
- Social/communication skills
- High-Functioning (Level 1) Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Strengths-based family therapy