We view therapeutic work with men as a unique clinical competency that requires a cultural familiarity with the emotional and social lives of men.  We emphasize the importance of understanding masculine norms and expression, gender socialization, and the societal expectations of men.  We recognize that men makeup a heterogeneous gender group, and that a broad range of diverse experiences exists among them.  We validate the stigma, prejudice, and violence some men experience based on the intersection of their gender and other important aspects of self (e.g. men of color; transgender men; men who practice a religious faith other than Christianity; men with disabilities; men who are homeless) that complicate their access to power and privilege often ascribed to men based on gender alone. We recognize the ways the existing patriarchal system  negatively impacts men and boys, separating them from the most human parts of themselves while increasing the difficulty of relating emotionally with others.  We work to develop  a sense of self-compassion among men while strengthening emotional awareness and empathy for others, and validate the strengths associated with masculinity.  As a practice, we seek to educate other professionals, community members, and our clients about men's gendered experiences, while additionally working to increase men’s access to counseling services.