Saving Our Sons
Counseling Professional Deepens Expertise with a PhD
Honored to have my work recognized by Capella in this recent interview! Counseling Professional Deepens Expertise with a PhD Some people might wonder why Clayton Lessor* bothered to get a PhD. A licensed professional counselor in St. Louis, Missouri, he already had a successful career in private practice, as well as numerous speaking and consulting gigs. “I wanted…
Read MoreRite-of-Passage & Initiation (Part Two)
Last week I explained “rite-of-passage” and the important processes an adolescent boy goes through to become an initiated man. Now let’s cover what being an initiated man means! Initiation to Manhood Adolescence ranges from 11-18 years of age. According to theorist, this stage of life is crucial; it gives individuals the challenge of establishing an…
Read MoreRite-of-Passage & Initiation (Part One of Two)
There is a much-needed focus today by both broadcast and print media on males and masculinity; you can virtually find a program or article on the subject at any given moment. What I don’t see or hear is something I know very well through years of research, data and facilitation. Boys need a rite-of-passage and initiation…
Read MoreDr. Clay on KTVI-Fox 2
In a recent interview on Fox 2 morning news I was asked about “Millennials and Perfectionism.” Here’s a link if you missed it. http://fox2now.com/2018/01/29/local-therapist-talks-about-how-perfectionism-affects-millennials/ A new study in the Psychological Bulletin says young people are more likely than any other generation to feel the pressure to be perfect. As a therapist who works extensively with adolescents, families and…
Read MoreParents How’s the “Exit Plan” Going?
Have you started your son’s exit plan? First, clearly this is not about “kicking your son out of the house” into a scary world without preparation. It is exactly the opposite-it is responsible parenting, preparing him to be a responsible, independent and healthy adult. Exit Plans Are Necessary I often hear from parents that their adult son is…
Read MoreParenting Boys? Managing Aggressive Behavior
It’s a good time to talk about “aggressiveness, assertiveness and aggressive behavior!” My recent blog on healthy masculinity was to caution getting caught up in the recent frenzy that masculinity was the “cause” for bad behavior. Masculinity and guns don’t go hand in hand; masculinity and irrational behavior don’t either! But what do you do when your son displays aggressiveness and/or…
Read MoreRaising Sons? The Need For Healthy Masculinity
Masculinity continues to be debated in the media as “bad” and “toxic” I’m motivated to bring some alarming facts to your attention. Perp’s in Sheep’s Clothing If you’re watching the news you are hearing weekly sometimes daily of arrests of female teachers, female coaches perpetrating adolescent boys. It’s becoming epidemic, CBS news reports there are more than…
Read MoreMasculinity Is Not The Enemy
We’re hearing a lot these days about masculinity and boys. Most of what’s being said I disagree with! Masculinity Masculinity is being attacked as a problem, a bad thing, that it’s toxic. As a facilitator, researcher and male I find this disturbing! Masculinity isn’t why a boy would walk into a school and begin shooting. Masculinity…
Read MoreFL School Shooter-Was Perfect Storm
It was a tragic sight on the T.V. screen. Another school shooting; this time 17 innocent lives taken. When will it stop? Not until change happens! The Tom Roten Morning Show The link below will take you to my recent interview with Tom. Why this was a “perfect storm.” Dr. Clay – FL School Shooter…
Read MoreBroken Boys-Signs to Watch For
How can a parent not be worried sick to send their kid off to school; a place trusted for years to keep children safe. We send our prayers and condolences to the families in Florida that lost loved ones. I’m reminded of this saying: “Bad things happen to good people.” Help with the Grief In…
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