Male vs. Female therapists, etc.

[Stacy]

So, being a single mom for my kids' entire existence, the only true male role model for my son has been my father. Throughout school and various counselors he's seen, the majority have been female. I've always looked for and thought a male counselor would be best for my son but they're in short supply, and hard to come by. We currently, once again, have a female shrink and therapist. This is fine for my daughter and me but do you think it matters to my son? He always says everything is fine no matter what, and acts as if it doesn't matter to him. I guess I'm under the impression that he would gain more by seeing male professionals. Could you just move to Chicago and solve this problem for me? LOL

Thanks! Stacy

[Mike Bradley]

I think that the appropriateness of same or different sex therapist depends upon the issue involved and the age of the client. Even then, it becomes murky. For example, in cases where a girl is molested by a male, many therapists recommend a female therapist. Yet others believe that developing a trusting therapeutic relationship with a non-crazy male is very helpful.
Bottom line? If your son seems happy with his shrink, I'd leave things where they are.