What Kind of Therapy Works Best for Men? A Guide to Choosing the Right Approach
What Kind of Therapy Works Best for Men?
Why Therapy for Men Is Different
Men’s mental health needs are unique, and finding the right therapy can make all the difference. However, stigma, societal expectations, and traditional masculinity norms often prevent men from seeking help.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ The best therapy types for men (CBT, EMDR, group therapy, and more)
✔ How to find the right therapist
✔ Strategies to overcome barriers to seeking therapy
Why Many Men Avoid Therapy
The Role of Masculinity in Mental Health
Men are less likely to seek therapy than women, despite high rates of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction(Mahalik et al., 2022). Many men believe that therapy is only for people who are weak or unable to handle problems on their own.
Common Barriers to Seeking Help
Fear of judgment or stigma
Difficulty expressing emotions
A preference for problem-solving over introspection
Uncertainty about which type of therapy is most effective
Finding a therapy approach that aligns with a man’s communication style and goals can increase engagement and improve mental health outcomes.
The Best Therapy Approaches for Men
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Best for Anxiety and Stress
CBT for men focuses on:
Changing negative thought patterns
Building healthy coping mechanisms
Problem-solving and action-based strategies
Why It Works:
✔ Structured and goal-oriented
✔ Teaches men practical coping strategies
✔ Effective for depression, anxiety, and anger management
🔗 Read More: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) (American Psychological Association)
2. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Best for Trauma & PTSD
What Is EMDR?
EMDR is an evidence-based therapy that helps men process traumatic memories through guided eye movements or bilateral stimulation.
Why It Works:
✔ Helps process trauma without excessive verbal expression
✔ Reduces PTSD symptoms effectively
✔ Ideal for combat veterans, abuse survivors, and childhood trauma
🔗 EMDR with Vital Mental Health
3. Group Therapy: Best for Support and Connection
Many men feel isolated in their struggles. Group therapy provides an opportunity to connect with others facing similar challenges.
Why It Works:
✔ Creates a sense of brotherhood and support
✔ Helps break the stigma around men’s mental health
✔ Effective for addiction recovery, anger management, and depression
🔗 Find a Support Group (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
4. Solution-Focused Therapy: Best for Fast, Action-Oriented Results
Some men prefer therapy that is short-term, goal-driven, and solution-focused rather than discussing past traumas.
Why It Works:
✔ Encourages problem-solving and immediate action
✔ Does not require long-term therapy commitment
✔ Best for relationship issues, work stress, and confidence-building
How to Find the Right Therapist for Men
Key Factors to Consider:
✅ Specialization: Does the therapist focus on men’s mental health?
✅ Approach: Do you prefer structured therapy (CBT), trauma work (EMDR), or group support?
✅ Logistics: Do you need online therapy, evening appointments, or insurance coverage?
Where to Find a Therapist
🔹 Psychology Today’s Therapist Directory
🔹 SAMHSA Mental Health Treatment Locator
🔹 Vital Mental Health’s Therapy Services
The Bottom Line: Therapy Can Work for You
Men don’t have to struggle in silence. Whether you prefer CBT, EMDR, group therapy, or solution-focused therapy, finding the right therapist can help you build resilience, reduce stress, and regain control over your mental health.
📞 Schedule a Consultation Today
Mahalik, J. R., Burns, S. M., & Syzdek, M. T. (2022). Masculinity and perceived normative health behaviors as predictors of men's health behaviors. Social Science & Medicine, 80(1), 14-21. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.03.015
Cuijpers, P., Karyotaki, E., Weitz, E., Andersson, G., Hollon, S. D., & van Straten, A. (2021). The effects of psychotherapies for depression on response, remission, and improvement: A meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders, 278, 699-710. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2020.09.023
Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: Basic principles, protocols, and procedures (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
Rice, S. M., Kealy, D., Seidler, Z. E., Oliffe, J. L., & Ogrodniczuk, J. S. (2020). Male depression subtypes and their association with suicidality. Journal of Affective Disorders, 260, 183-192. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2019.09.026
Franklin, C., Zhang, A., Froerer, A., & Johnson, S. (2021). Solution-focused brief therapy: A systematic review and meta-summary of process research. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 47(2), 221-239. https://doi.org/10.1111/jmft.124
