The Decision to Seek Psychological Counseling: Male Clients’ Experiences and Perspectives

Abstract

This study employed a qualitative research design using Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA) to explore the decision-making process of men in seeking psychological counseling services, as well as to identify factors that facilitate or hinder their access to such services. The participants consisted of six male individuals purposefully selected based on defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions, guided by pre-constructed interview outlines, with probing questions used to elicit deeper responses. The group discussions were framed around key topics designed to explore the participants’ experiences and perspectives.

The research findings revealed that the decision-making process of men in seeking psychological counseling, as well as the facilitating and hindering factors, can be understood through four core themes: 1) Awareness of psychological problems, 2) Internal conflicts between masculine roles and problem management, 3) (Non-)Disclosure and openness to psychological counseling, and 4) Experiences and personal transformation following counseling. Additionally, the study identified several key facilitating factors: 1) Internal motivation influencing the decision to seek counseling, 2) Attitudes and understanding toward psychological counseling, 3) Support or reactions from close individuals, and 4) Ease of access to counseling services. Conversely, the main barriers that impeded men's engagement in psychological counseling included: 1) Personal resource limitations, 2) Social norms and masculine ideals emphasizing emotional strength and self-reliance, and 3) Misconceptions about the nature and purpose of psychological counseling. The findings offer practical implications for developing psychological counseling services that are more responsive to the needs and contexts of male clients.