FAQs
We’ve answered your Frequently Asked Questions about therapy for men.
There is no set rule for when someone should start therapy. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious or low for a prolonged period, or if certain thoughts or behaviours are affecting your work, relationships or daily life, therapy can help. You do not need to wait until things feel unbearable. Therapy is also a great way to build resilience and improve self-awareness. If you have been feeling stuck, unmotivated or unable to manage emotions in a way that feels healthy, it might be time to talk to a professional.
Therapy sessions are a safe and confidential space to talk about your thoughts, emotions and any challenges you are facing. Your therapist will listen, ask questions and help you explore your feelings without judgment. Some sessions may involve discussing past experiences, while others focus on practical strategies to cope with stress, anxiety or low mood. Every therapist has a different approach. Some focus on structured techniques like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), while others encourage open discussion and self-reflection. You are always in control of the conversation and there is no pressure to share anything you are not ready for.
Finding the right therapist is about finding someone you feel comfortable with. Start by looking for therapists who specialise in the issues you want to work on such as anxiety, depression, anger or relationships. Many therapists offer a free consultation call so you can ask questions about their approach before committing to sessions. Pay attention to how they make you feel. Do they listen and understand you? Do they explain things in a way that makes sense to you? Therapy is most effective when there is a good connection between you and your therapist, so if it does not feel right, it is okay to try someone else.
No. Therapy moves at your pace and you are in control of what you share and when. It is completely normal to feel hesitant about opening up, especially at first. A good therapist will never pressure you to talk about something before you are ready. You can start by discussing general feelings or specific situations that are bothering you. Over time, as trust builds, you might feel more comfortable diving deeper. Therapy is not about forcing emotions out. It is about creating a space where you feel safe enough to explore them at your own speed.
The timeline for therapy varies depending on your goals, the type of therapy and the challenges you are facing. Some people notice improvements after just a few sessions, while others find longer-term support more beneficial. If you are working through deep-seated issues such as trauma or long-term anxiety, it might take more time. The key is consistency. Therapy is not a quick fix but a process that helps you develop healthier ways of thinking and coping over time. You and your therapist can regularly review your progress and adjust your sessions as needed.
Not every therapist is the right fit and that is okay. Therapy works best when you feel comfortable, respected and understood. If you do not feel like you can open up, if their approach does not resonate with you or if you simply do not feel a connection, it is completely fine to try someone else. Therapy is a personal experience and you should never feel guilty about switching therapists if you think it will help you get the most out of your sessions. Many therapists understand this and will support your decision if you decide to seek help elsewhere.
No. Therapy is not just about venting or having a conversation. Different types of therapy offer different approaches. Some therapies like CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) focus on practical strategies to challenge negative thinking patterns and develop coping skills. Others like psychodynamic therapy explore past experiences and how they influence your present. Many therapists combine techniques to suit your needs including mindfulness exercises, goal-setting or problem-solving strategies. Therapy is about understanding yourself better and learning tools to improve your mental health, not just talking.
It is possible but unlikely. Therapy involves facing emotions you might have buried or ignored which can sometimes feel uncomfortable at first. However, working through these feelings with the support of a therapist is what helps bring clarity and healing in the long run. Think of it like rehab for a muscle injury. Initially the exercises might feel tough, but in the end they lead to long-term recovery. If you ever feel overwhelmed, tell your therapist. They can adjust the pace and make sure you are feeling supported throughout the process.
Absolutely. More men than ever are seeking therapy and there is growing awareness that mental health is just as important as physical health. Men have traditionally been told to "just get on with it" or "man up," but suppressing emotions does not make them disappear. It just makes them harder to deal with in the long run. Therapy is about learning how to handle stress, relationships and emotions in a healthy way. Many professional athletes, business leaders and public figures openly talk about how therapy has helped them. It is not a sign of weakness but of strength and self-awareness.
That is completely normal. Many people, especially men, are not used to talking about their emotions so it is okay if you do not know where to start. A good therapist will guide the conversation and help you explore what is on your mind. If you are struggling to express how you feel, try describing what has been bothering you lately, even in a general way. For example, "I have been feeling off but I am not sure why" or "I have been more stressed than usual at work." The important thing is to show up and be open to the process. You do not need to have all the answers. Therapy is about figuring things out together.