Clinical Work with Men: Understanding Masculinity in Psychotherapy - Softcover

Andrew P. Smiler

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1433844451 ISBN 13: 9781433844454

Publisher: American Psychological Association, 2026

Synopsis

A fresh approach to understanding and engaging men in therapy

Why do so many men avoid therapy—or never return after the first session? And how can clinicians better connect with them?

In Clinical Work With Men, psychologist Andrew P. Smiler offers a groundbreaking guide for therapists seeking to better understand and engage with male clients by exploring masculinity from the inside out. Instead of pathologizing men's behaviors, this book helps clinicians see the world through their clients' eyes, examining the roles, values, and identities that shape how men understand themselves.

Drawing on extensive research and clinical experience, Smiler introduces seven common masculinity types—from the breadwinner and the protector to the angry man and the player—each with its own strengths, struggles, and therapeutic implications. Through vivid clinical vignettes and actionable strategies, therapists will learn how to:

• Recognize the core values and identity themes that drive male clients' behavior.
• Build rapport by aligning therapeutic approaches with clients' self-understandings.
• Address emotional development, social connection, and intersectional challenges.
• Apply practical interventions tailored to diverse masculinities.

With its unique focus on identity, values, and real-world clinical applications, Clinical Work With Men will deepen your insight, sharpen your skills, and help you create more meaningful, effective therapeutic relationships with men.

About this title

About the Author

Andrew P. Smiler, PhD, is an award-winning author, therapist, and psychologist living in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. His therapeutic practice focuses on helping teen boys, adult men, and their families live happier, healthier, and more productive lives. Dr. Smiler is a past president of the Society for the Psychology of Men and Masculinities and past board chair of MaleSurvivor.org. He is author or coauthor of the books Is Masculinity Toxic? A Primer for the 21st Century, Dating and Sex: A Guide for the 21st Century Teen Boy, and the best-selling textbook The Masculine Self (7th ed., with Christopher Kilmartin).

Edition details

• Publisher: American Psychological Association
• Publication date: 2026
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1433844451
• ISBN 13: 9781433844454
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 217