Men's Issues
Simply put, men's issues matter because, just as you as a man, matter. Men, like everyone else, experience a range of emotions, societal pressures, responsibilities, and demands on time and energy. As professionals, husbands, and fathers, men face a unique set of challenges while also seeking to answer a unique set of questions. From navigating traditional masculinity norms to dealing with societal expectations, relationship dynamics, and workplace stress, we empower men to make sense of all the “stuff” and equip them to advance their own goals of better serving their spouses, their children, their peers, and themselves. Counseling for men’s issues is, as you will quickly learn, another avenue to develop strength and resiliency, putting you that much closer to living the life you desire to live, and giving others the experiences you have always wanted to give them.
Our approach is informed by a variety of streams, including neuroscience about how the brain and body work together, therapeutic interventions aimed at making sense of your story, and a firm belief that our work together will transcend the "presenting problem" that initially motivated you just enough to reach out and establish contact. We do not offer band-aids, quick fixes, and shallow remedies. By bringing forth your most important questions, the questions that matter the most, we can collaborate to find answers, providing guidance through the complexities and assist with organizing your experiences.
What can I expect from the counseling process?
You can expect to move closer to the goals you have for yourself. In fact, most men that I (Alex) work with end up reflecting upon this process and stating something like, "I thought I was just coming to address one area of difficulty, but we ended up doing that and so much more!" You will be engaged, validated, and challenged. Your experiences, stressors, reactions, thoughts, feelings and behaviors can make sense and be understood. Through a combination of research and evidence informed interventions, application of neuroscience, and a transdiagnostic approach, you can expect to increase your understanding of yourself and your experiences, as well as adjusting to the roles you find most valuable in your life and the lives of those most important to you.
What are sessions like?
Sessions are generally one-hour, and involve a variety of experiential processes intermixed with psychoeducation around how the brain, body, thoughts, and emotions interact to create your experience of yourself, others, and the world. We will explore together, as you are the only expert about what it's like to be you. I like use the image of a marathon. You are running a race, and I will come along beside you at one point in the race, bringing you some water and a snack, and I will run along beside you for this part of the race. At some point, I will peel off and you will continue the race you are running. Of course, I am always available to rejoin you as our paths can converge again at any time, as needed!
What are the frequency of sessions, and for how long?
Most men find that meeting anywhere from once every two to four weeks to be a helpful rhythm. We may meet more often as we get started, to establish that rhythm and build momentum. As you approach the end of our time together, sessions may more naturally space out, which mirrors your progress and taking on larger goals that may necessarily require more time to impact.
Do you offer online counseling via telehealth?
Yes, we can connect with you online. The only requirement is that you be anywhere within the state of Kentucky during our session times.
Why do you work with men?
I (Alex) have longed been intrigued by what it means to be a man, to be male, to be created in the image of God, and all of the various other streams that contribute to an understanding of why we are here, what our role(s) entail, and how to care for and meet the needs of those around me. I was able to attend a variety of schools for high quality education; I have engaged in a variety of practices, camps, and formats for a number of sports; I have been trained in a number of therapy modalities from the people that created them...In response, I have received diplomas, trophies, licenses and certifications. But none of them say "Bachelor of Arts in Being a Dude" or "Certified Male" or "1st place Guy." My calling to therapy and my training in philosophy, religion, and Christianity combine to create meaningful answers to all the "big questions" in the lives of men. I work with men because the process of answering the "big questions" together, empowering men to be the husbands, fathers, and people they have always wanted to be, is as rewarding as it gets. I work with men because I feel I am working out my calling and because I have the skill to do it well.
Do you offer events, retreats, or seminars for men?
Various trainings and events are in process of being created. If you have requests or recommendations, please email those to Alex@KYconnections.com Also, you can view all of our upcoming events on the events page here.