Positive Masculinity Model | Men’s Therapy Falmouth Cornwall

Explore positive masculinity therapy for men in Falmouth Cornwall and online UK. Build resilience, emotional intelligence, and authentic living.

By Inner Warrior Therapy – Men’s Psychotherapy in Falmouth & Online

About the Author

Carl Stephens is a men’s psychotherapist and Transactional Analysis practitioner based in Falmouth Cornwall, offering online sessions across the UK. Founder of Inner Warrior Therapy, he specialises in helping men build emotional resilience, self-awareness, and authentic relationships. Carl integrates strength-based, reflective, and holistic approaches, including the Positive Masculinity Model, deconfusion work, and physical wellbeing strategies, into therapy tailored to men’s unique experiences.

At Inner Warrior Therapy, we understand the unique challenges men face today, particularly around societal expectations of masculinity. Men are often expected to be tough, emotionally controlled, and stoic, which can make seeking help, expressing vulnerability, or building meaningful relationships difficult. The Positive Masculinity Model, developed by Kiselica and Englar-Carlson in 2010, provides a framework for therapy with men, helping them develop healthier, adaptive traits and thrive emotionally, mentally, and socially.

What is the Positive Masculinity Model?

The Positive Masculinity Model offers an alternative to traditional, often harmful, ideals of masculinity. It focuses on identifying strengths and developing traits that support personal growth, resilience, and emotional wellbeing. At Inner Warrior Therapy, we integrate this model into psychotherapy sessions, helping men build authentic, fulfilling lives.

Key Principles of the Positive Masculinity Model

Kiselica and Englar-Carlson’s model emphasises positive, strength-based principles for counselling men and boys:

  • Emotional awareness and regulation – Recognising and expressing emotions, including sadness, fear, or empathy, while developing skills to manage stress and relationships.

  • Relational styles and ways of caring – Building healthy relationships through mutual respect, empathy, care, and protection.

  • Generative fatherhood – Valuing fatherhood or caring roles to foster growth in the next generation through consistent presence and emotional attunement.

  • Self-reliance balanced with connectedness – Encouraging inner confidence while remaining connected to others and the community.

  • Worker/provider purpose – Supporting purpose through meaningful work, responsibility, and contribution, rather than being constrained by societal judgement.

  • Courage and risk-taking with wisdom – Embracing challenge while maintaining discernment to grow safely.

  • Group orientation and belonging – Encouraging connection and support through shared activity, whether in sports, teams, or community groups.

  • Use of humour – Harnessing humour as a coping tool, relational skill, and way to challenge shame.

  • Heroism in everyday life – Acting with integrity, overcoming adversity, and caring for others through small acts of courage and generosity.

How Inner Warrior Therapy Uses the Positive Masculinity Model

At Inner Warrior Therapy, each session is tailored to your experiences, values, and understanding of masculinity. Our approach integrates the Positive Masculinity Model in ways that feel natural, empowering, and relevant:

  • Therapy that respects your background and beliefs, reframing outdated or harmful ideas of masculinity

  • Developing emotional intelligence through reflection and skills-based work, helping you notice, name, and regulate emotions

  • Challenging societal expectations and defining your own version of masculinity

  • Supporting holistic wellbeing, recognising the connection between mental, emotional, and physical health

  • Offering practical tools for change in relationships, career, self-esteem, or leadership roles

Why This Model Matters for Men

Many men experience tension between traditional ideals of masculinity and their authentic selves. This conflict can lead to shame, emotional suppression, relationship issues, or poor mental health.

By focusing on strengths, integrity, care, and connection, the Positive Masculinity Model helps men:

  • Become more emotionally resilient

  • Build satisfying and healthy relationships

  • Find clearer purpose and direction

  • Reduce internal conflict and self-criticism

Take the Next Step

If you are a man looking to explore your own version of masculinity, break free from limiting expectations, and develop emotional resilience, Inner Warrior Therapy can support you. I offer face-to-face sessions in Falmouth Cornwall and online across the UK, combining Transactional Analysis with the principles of positive masculinity to guide you towards a life of purpose, authenticity, and strength.

Contact me:
Email: carl@innerwarriortherapy.co.uk
Phone: 07307 224924
Website: innerwarriortherapy.co.uk

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