Emotions Have No Gender
We're guessing that you've probably been told, or have told someone else, to ‘be strong’, ‘toughen up’, or ‘don't cry’. Emotions can feel uncomfortable, and how you or others express them can be uncomfortable too.
It's likely you learned how to express your emotions from those who cared for you. Maybe you were taught, either directly or indirectly, to suppress or ignore your feelings in a way that negatively affects both you and those around you. And maybe you're starting to notice patterns in your life that just aren't working anymore.
It's ok to acknowledge when things aren't ok. That you're feeling stuck. That you should start doing things differently.
It's time for change.
You're not alone with your feelings and mental health!
We know that it can become challenging to manage life's daily stressors and demands, especially when you may not feel equipped to handle them as they arise. Stop letting your emotions, beliefs about them, and your reactions get in your way!
Your emotions are valid. So are your experiences. Asking for support while navigating life's challenges isn't a weakness -- it's normal.
We believe mental health and wellness are about having a sense of control in your life. This can look like healthy coping strategies, practicing emotional awareness, or communicating effectively. When you are faced with challenges, we want you to feel empowered -
to know that you have the ability to choose how you respond.
Mental health concerns often show up as physical symptoms. These can be easier to notice and acknowledge than emotional ones—and are often the first sign that something deeper is going on. Check out the list below for some physical symptoms that can be a sign of a mental health concern.
Signs you could be ignoring
Headaches
Unhealthy habits
Change in sexual interest/ performance
Increased irritability, anger, impulsivity
Digestive problems
Short attention span; difficulty with routine and scheduling
Consider something for a moment; if you had a physical injury that was severe enough to impact how you function every single day, would you address this with the appropriate professional?
Why then, is there such hesitancy when it comes to mental health, difficult emotions, or unhealthy habits? Things can unravel quickly when left untreated, but it's never too late. Looking at the signs above, how many of these do you notice in your life?
Let us support you in addressing these concerns so you can get back to feeling in control of your life. Acknowledging your experiences and habits opens the door to healthier, more adaptive ways of coping.
How Therapy Can Help
Therapy is not always about learning something new. Sometimes, it can be helpful to get a different perspective on how your reactions to different situations affect both you and those around you. By speaking to a professional, you can explore new ways of approaching challenges and discover coping strategies you may not have considered on your own.
Rather than starting over, your therapist will help you recognize the skills you already have and build off of them to strengthen your relationships with yourself and others.
Together you will improve your ability to:
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Express your thoughts and feelings clearly
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Deepen your understanding of yourself
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Respond to emotions in healthy, more effective ways
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Learn new behaviours and coping strategies
You may not realize something is off until you begin to talk about it. Sharing your experiences and challenges can make them feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
If you're still not sure whether therapy is the right choice for you, book a free 15 minute consultation with one of our therapists to find out more about the type of support they can offer you.
Challenges Often Faced by Men
Men tend to repress their feelings and act out their depression in negative ways including: hostility and irritability, verbal abusiveness, or drinking to excess
Social and psychological factors can contribute to men’s depression - like competition at work, unemployment, physical illness - anything that directly impacts a man’s sense of strength and status.
The social isolation experienced by many men as they cope with the difficult feelings that accompany a breakup and the loss of full access to their children, is believed to be a factor in the high rate of suicide amongst divorced men.
Men go through a hormonal change as they age, similar to that experienced by women in menopause. The male menopause, or andropause, is often trigged when men reach their forties and this sudden loss of testosterone can have a huge impact on a man's mental health.
Supporting Men with Expertise and Understanding
Michael Kaszkur, MSW, RSW
Offering sessions in Georgetown and online, Michael brings a unique skillset to working with men, drawing on specialized training and lived experience to help clients navigate challenges such as emotional expression, relationship concerns, and identity.
Michael provides support for anyone facing significant life challenges. He also has specialized training in anger management and recovery support.
All of our therapists are experienced and fully equipped to support men with compassion, insight, and evidence-based care.
Therapy for men is available in Oakville, Georgetown, or online for all residents of Ontario.
Book a free initial consultation today!
Available in Oakville, Georgetown & virtual
Before you begin therapy, you may have many questions and concerns; that's perfectly natural.
We want you to make an informed decision about starting therapy with us. That's why, we invite you to schedule a free 15-min consultation with our team.
During this initial call, you will get the opportunity to ask your questions, and we will tell you more about our experience and approach to therapy for men.
PS. This call doesn't obligate you to work with us. You can use this form also if you have questions before booking a consultation.
