What do men really want and need from therapy?

In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Dr. Zac Seidler, Clinical Psychologist and Director of Research at Movember, about why therapy often fails men and how it can be improved. Drawing on groundbreaking research, Zac explains that 44% of men drop out of therapy early, not because of cost or inconvenience, but because they do not feel a genuine connection with their therapist.

We explore the unique challenges men face in seeking help, including cultural expectations, societal pressure, and therapeutic approaches that do not reflect men’s lived experiences. Zac shares practical strategies for therapists, including being direct, goal-focused, and culturally aware of masculinity, to better engage male clients.

We also discuss Movember’s Men in Mind programme, which trains therapists to understand men’s mental health, improve connection, and reduce dropout rates.

In this episode you will learn:

Why men are less likely to seek therapy and the barriers that prevent engagement
How traditional therapy models can fail to meet men’s needs
Practical approaches for therapists to create a safe, effective space for male clients
The role of masculinity and cultural norms in shaping men’s mental health experiences
How programs like Men in Mind are improving outcomes for men

This conversation is essential for anyone interested in men’s mental health, therapy for men, reducing stigma, and creating supportive environments where men can access the help they need.

Hear more from Dr Zac:

Men in Mind programme: https://meninmind.movember.com/

More research and articles from Movember: https://movember.substack.com/

Timestamps:

13:24: Understanding Therapy: Men’s Experiences and Expectations 22:50: Creating Safe Spaces: The Importance of Connection in Therapy 24:58: The Call for Help in Men's Mental Health 27:31: Understanding Vulnerability and Communication 29:53: Navigating Traditional and Contemporary Masculinity 30:34: Stereotypes and Therapy: The Masculinity Barrier 33:28: Personal Connection in Therapy 36:30: Redefining Therapy: A Strength-Based Approach 41:46: Movember's Initiatives for Men's Mental Health Awareness

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