Psychotherapy & Masculinity
Jason Phelps is an LGBT and Queer friendly psychotherapist practicing psychotherapy in Montreal who specializes in working with men on issues like gender, identity, sexuality, and masculinity.
Jason Phelps believes that sex and gender are two separate constructs that often get confused to be one. Whereas genetics influence the direction of biological sex formation, socialization is thought to influence gender role formation. The ways in which biological men and women grow to be masculine and feminine in their demeanor often involves rigid or even violent coercion. This process has been found to be traumatic for both women and men.
Many men learn that they must always be strong and independent to be accepted as "real men." They also learn that the best way to be true to these principles is to always be in control - of themselves and of others. In trying to be true to the adage that "boys don't cry," many men learn to freeze out emotions that feel weak or feminine. These and many other factors of gender role socialization cut men off from half of their full potential. In essence, being rigidly committed to masculinity may also be keeping many men from true connection and intimacy with their loved ones.
If you know of, or are a man who is in need of support in facing issues stemming from masculinity, sexuality or other gender identity issues, Jason Phelps is an LGBT and Queer friendly psychotherapist in Montreal that can help.