A New Psychotherapy for Traditional Men

Most men are trained from earliest childhood to suppress emotional distress, avoid the subtle signals of interpersonal conflicts, experience humiliation at the first hint of failure, and most of all, resist asking for help. They deny and avoid their psychological pain and want to take action rather than be reflective. Is it any wonder that men view therapy as shameful and alienating?

Psychologist Gary Brooks has developed an innovative (and user-friendly) therapeutic model for working with men who are resistant to traditional therapy. Drawing on his own blue-collar upbringing and his work in veterans hospitals treating working-class clients, Brooks shows how this unique approach uses compassion, respect, empathy, and sensitivity to dissolve the barriers of men's defenses.

A New Psychology for Traditional Men outlines an exhilarating process, for both clinician and client, in which they share the discovery of common problems rooted in cultural expectations. By talking openly about the culture and stresses of masculinity, men come to realize their problems are not unique nor the result of personal failures. They develop connections with other men and enjoy mutual support and a joint commitment toward change. Brooks shows how to channel this enthusiasm into positive cognitive, behavioral, and relationship changes.

This challenging new model reconsiders the clinician's previous comfort zone of a solid barrier between client and therapist and rethinks ideas about a rigid boundary between therapy and the larger culture.