The Best Types Of Individual Therapy For Men

The Best Types Of Individual Therapy For Men

In the modern age, it’s becoming more accepted for mento seek assistance with mental disorders and substance abuse. However, it can still take a lot of strength to take that first step and make an appointment with a medical doctor, counselor, or psychotherapist. Knowing where to turn and what type of treatment options to choose can be another difficult aspect of the issue.

We’re here to explain the best means of therapy for men and why each is perceived as useful in any given situation. We’ll look at how each type of therapy works and what sort of disorders it is best for. We’ll also consider the gendered aspect of the therapy suggestions and why they are excellent options for men, in particular.

Motivational Interviewing

The first option you have as a man seeking assistance with mental illness or addiction is motivational interviewing. The purpose of this therapy is to help an individual move from a place of uncertainty and into space where there is motivation to make healthier decisions and accomplish personal goals. This type of therapy is most often used for drug abuse, sex addiction, gambling addiction, depression, and anxiety disorders.

The way that men are socialized often leads to a feeling of uncertainty when it comes to expressing deep emotions. Motivational interviewing can be a comfortable place for men to talk about the things that are plaguing them in a comfortable and relaxing environment. This type of therapy is very low-key with a therapist listening to what the individual has to say and helping them feel supported in the decisions they go on to make.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Another potential therapy type for men is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This therapy option is commonly used with a broad range of mental disorders and addictions. Cognitive therapy can be used for PTSD, OCD, depression, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and more. This type of therapy is extremely structured and motivates an individual to make clear goals as well as solutions for attaining those goals.

Something that can be devastating for men is feeling as if they are not in control. CBT is a therapy that can alleviate that feeling for many people. The structured method of therapy that CBT consists of can help an individual feel more emotionally and mentally in control of their own life. This alone can help to remove some of the distress that the person may be feeling. In addition, CBT is something you can continue to use in other aspects of your life. This might appeal to someone who prefers to learn coping methods and leave therapy.

Trauma Therapy

Men go through trauma just like anyone else. While it may not be commonly discussed, men are victims of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, just like their female counterparts. As a male, this kind of trauma can be devastating, but it may seem as if the correct response socially is to downplay those feelings or to ignore the situation all together. Even in other aspects of life, trauma can occur. PTSD is common of those who have served in the armed forces, which can also be worked on through trauma therapy.

Talking about the trauma is something that is often suggested by mental health professionals. By pulling back the layers of suffering that the trauma has caused, it gives a new base to heal from. Men may feel more comfortable talking about their emotions and trauma with someone in a professional atmosphere where they have confidentiality. Choosing a therapist who practices trauma therapy can be the start of a journey back to a life without pain.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy

Dialectical behavioral therapy, or DBT, is sometimes confused with CBT but they are not the same thing. CBT is primarily used to help a person understand their thoughts and behaviors and then change those patterns and behaviors. DBT, on the other hand, looks at the person’s life and experiences and doesn’t shy away from them. As such, patients using DBT will learn ways to better cope with things that are often stressful or otherwise negative.

Men may find that DBT is an excellent fit for their needs. Like CBT, DBT can be used with many different disorders and addictions. It is straightforward and involves working with a therapist, participating in skills groups, and having access to other support as needed. It is a type of therapy that can seem very logical, which will appeal to many men who require therapy.

Psychiatry Sessions

The final option for men’s individual treatment is to engage in sessions with a psychiatrist. As a medical doctor, this may feel more comfortable for some men as it doesn’t have the same atmosphere as a therapist. Instead, you see a medical professional who is skilled in mental illness and treating addiction. This person can listen to your problems and help in many different ways. For instance, the psychiatrist may do evaluations and tests to determine what your underlying mental disorder is causing you pain.

On top of that, once there is a diagnosis, the doctor can treat you using various methods. They might suggest psychotherapy for one person, brain stimulation treatment for another person, or prescribe a medication for a third person. Often, a psychiatrist can point you in the direction of resources, as well. This can be helpful for those who prefer to keep their problems quiet unless in a comfortable situation where help is available.

Conclusion

If you are a man who is experiencing bipolar disorderpost-traumatic stress disorderanxiety, or any other mental illness or addiction, there are many treatment centers in Colorado that can help. For those that prefer a more private setting, you can choose to be seen individually by various types of professionals instead of group therapy. By looking at yourself and what changes you want, you will likely find that one of these types of therapies fits quite well. Whether you choose DBT, trauma therapy, psychiatry, or something different, you deserve to feel empowered and in control of your own life. Therapy is a way toward that experience.

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Peaks Recovery provides accommodating support for individuals who may be experiencing some obstacles in their recovery journey or are looking for a step down from an inpatient program.

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