Where Are All the Male Therapists in the UK?

Why We Need More Men Supporting Mental Health, Especially in Construction!

Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get mentioned enough…

Where are all the male therapists in the UK?

In a society where awareness of mental health is (thankfully) growing, it’s time we had a proper conversation about the gender imbalance in the therapy profession. At the moment, less than 25% of therapists in the UK are men. That’s a pretty surprising figure when you realise that 1 in 4 adults in the UK will experience a mental health issue each year.

Therapy is for everyone but shouldn’t it also be delivered by everyone?

Let’s unpack why having more men in the therapy profession could transform the way we think about therapy especially in areas where it’s needed most, like the construction industry, where male mental health often goes unseen or unsupported.

Therapy Is for All Genders So Why Isn’t the Profession?

The therapy space should be inclusive and accessible for people of every gender, background and identity. But representation matters not just in politics or media, but in mental health too.

When clients see someone they can relate to in the therapy chair, it can create an immediate sense of trust and comfort. That’s why more male therapists in the UK would mean:

• More relatable options for clients especially male clients.
• A wider range of voices and perspectives in the therapy space.
• More balanced support tailored to diverse emotional needs.
• More men viewing therapy as a tool for growth not just something to turn to when things go wrong.

   

This isn’t about replacing anyone it’s about expanding what the therapy profession can offer and making it more inclusive for everyone.

Why Aren’t More Men Becoming Therapists?

There are plenty of reasons why so few men are entering the field of counselling and therapy. Some are cultural, others systemic and many are down to a lack of visibility and encouragement.

Social stigma: There’s still a lingering belief in some circles that therapy is “soft” or not something men do. In truth, it takes a great deal of courage and self-awareness to offer or seek therapy.

Perception of the profession: Many men simply don’t consider therapy as a viable career option. It’s rarely suggested, especially in environments where caring roles are undervalued or misunderstood.

Lack of role models: If you’ve never seen a male therapist, it’s harder to imagine yourself becoming one. The profession needs more visible male figures to inspire the next generation.

But here’s the good news: things are changing and you could be part of that change!

The Construction Industry: A Sector in Urgent Need of Mental Health Support

Let’s focus for a moment on one of the most male-dominated industries in the UK: construction. Known for its physical demands, long hours and high-pressure environments, construction is not typically associated with mental health conversations but it absolutely should be.

Mental Health in Construction: The Stark Reality

• Construction workers are more than three times more likely to take their own lives than the national average.
• Many workers feel isolated, stressed and unsure where to turn for help.
• Outdated ideas around masculinity still dominate: “man up,” “crack on,” “don’t show weakness.”

But construction workers are people too, people with emotions, struggles and personal challenges. They deserve access to meaningful, relevant mental health support.

Why Male Therapists Matter Here

This is where male therapists can make a massive difference. When men in construction see other men openly talking about emotions, guiding therapy sessions and demonstrating vulnerability, it starts to break down those walls.

• A male therapist may feel more relatable to a construction worker who’s never opened up before.
• They can offer culturally and emotionally relevant support that fits the unique pressures of the job.
• They help shift the narrative making emotional wellbeing part of the conversation, not something to hide.

   

Imagine male therapists being present on building sites, offering drop-in sessions, leading toolbox talks on wellbeing or working within companies to create healthier cultures. The impact could be life-changing and not just for individuals but for the industry as a whole.

There’s Plenty of Room for You in This Profession!

Let’s not sugar-coat it, we need more men in therapy roles and the demand is only going to increase.

Whether it’s in private practice, the NHS, schools, colleges, prisons, community services or directly within industries like construction, transport, or emergency services there are countless spaces where male therapists can play a transformative role.

If you’ve ever had the thought:

• “I reckon I’d be good at helping people.”
• “I’ve had my own struggles and want to support others.”
• “I wish I’d had someone like me to talk to when I was struggling.”
  
  

Then this is your green light.

Becoming a therapist isn’t just a job, it’s a vocation and for many men, it’s also an opportunity to grow personally, challenge outdated stereotypes and give back in a meaningful way.

What Do You Need to Become a Therapist?

You don’t need to start with a psychology degree. In the UK, there are multiple accessible routes into counselling and psychotherapy:

• Level 2 and 3 counselling skills courses
• Accredited diplomas (Level 4 and above)
• Psychology or counselling degrees
• Specialist postgraduate qualifications in CBT, integrative therapy, or trauma-focused work
  
  

What matters more than your academic background is your mindset:

• Empathy
• Emotional resilience
• Good listening skills
• A genuine interest in people’s wellbeing
  
  

Men bring a valuable and often unique perspective into therapy spaces especially when they show up with authenticity and openness.

Male Therapists Help Change the Story About Men and Mental Health

Every man who becomes a therapist helps to rewrite the outdated narratives about what it means to be a man.

You’re saying:

• “It’s okay to open up.”
• “You don’t have to go it alone.”
• “Asking for help is strength not weakness.”
  
  

That’s a powerful message and it’s one that countless people (especially other men) need to hear and see modelled.

Let’s Keep This Conversation Going!

We need to start asking, loudly and often: Where are all the male therapists in the UK? and more importantly, how do we encourage more men to step forward and join this vital profession?

If you’re a man reading this and wondering whether you’d be a good fit you probably already are. The qualities that make great therapists aren’t exclusive to any gender. What’s missing is your presence, your voice and your story.

We need more men in therapy rooms.

We need more role models showing that it’s okay to feel.

We need you.

The Future of Mental Health Support in the UK Needs You

If you’ve ever thought, “I think I’d be good at this,” consider this your sign.

Whether you’re starting fresh, changing careers or looking for something with real purpose becoming a male therapist in the UK is a step towards something powerful.

You’ll help people heal.

You’ll inspire others to open up.

You’ll challenge stereotypes, shift conversations and build better mental health support in every corner of the UK from therapy rooms to building sites.

Let’s make therapy something more men see themselves in not just as clients but as leaders, listeners and professionals!