Raising Sons-Is He Bully or Bullied?

When a parent makes the decision it’s time to get a professional opinion; when their son exhibits signs of trouble, it’s critical they be open to the feedback of the professional and keep an open mind! Let me give an example.

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A Story of Volunteerism

  Would you be surprised if I told you a story about seven young men, ages 11-16 working every Saturday in a garden?  Charity Patch is Born Five years ago, my wife and I set out to “find” an initiative we could get behind that would allow us to give back to the community.  Long…

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The Quest Project® Manifesto

As a 20+ year retired Captain of the United States Air Force it goes without saying I love my country and am proud to be an American! Where else do you have the opportunity to be who you want to be, achieve your goals and debate your beliefs through freedom of speech. My observation, we…

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To: Dad

To all the fathers out there who are committed to be the best DAD they can be. When I refer to fathers in my blogs, I also emphasize and stress the importance of being a “responsible, healthy and safe role model.” More and more fathers are asking me “how do I be a good dad?”  My answer is…

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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…

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Rite-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…

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Rite-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…

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Parenting 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…

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Adolescent Son In Trouble? Step Two

Last week in Step #1 we covered the importance of setting healthy boundaries & limits in conjunction with natural consequences.  Many times, parents can avoid trouble with their adolescent son by starting there. When that doesn’t work, move to Step #2: Step #2=Seek Counseling Many boys don’t know how to deal with the pain that comes…

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The Quest Project-For Men

I facilitated my first The Quest Project® back in 2000.  I never imagined back then that today I’d be facilitating that same program (modified for adults) to a group of men. I have discovered The Quest Project is as meaningful to men as it is to the adolescent boys.  As an example, imagine a group of six men…

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