About PATH for Men

PATH for Men is a research-informed initiative exploring the long-term impact of trauma
on men’s lives, self-concept, and relationships.

While sexual trauma and unwanted sexual experiences are central to this work, many men
identify more with the broader, lasting effects of these experiences over time.

In its research phase, PATH for Men seeks to understand men’s experiences and how these
challenges shape their lives.

Guided by trauma-informed care and cultural humility, the project aims to build safer,
healthier communities and reduce cycles of harm.

By supporting men’s healing, it contributes to stronger relationships and more resilient
communities, complementing efforts to empower women and girls.

It also lays the foundation for compassionate, informed support tailored to men’s needs.

Why PATH for Men

PATH for Men is exploring how trauma affects
men over time.
Some experiences are less visible or widely recognized.

The project seeks to understand individual experiences,
examining their impact on relationships, families,
and connections, while considering intergenerational effects.

Insights from this work will help guide future inclusive,
trauma-conscious, culturally humble strategies.

These approaches aim to foster hope and a sense of peace,
encourage connection, and contribute to safer, healthier communities.

KEY INSIGHTS

➤ Understanding men’s experiences
of trauma-related grief and loss

➤ Long-term impacts on self-concept,
relationships, and connections

➤ Considering intergenerational impact

➤ Recognizing less visible patterns
of experience

➤ Guiding initiatives that foster hope
and sense of peace

➤ Informing inclusive, trauma-conscious,
culturally humble strategies

➤ Supporting safer, healthier communities

Foundational Principles

Trauma-Informed
Guided by awareness of trauma’s long-term effects, emphasizing safety, respect, and sensitivity.

Culturally Humble
Honours men’s diverse experiences and emphasizes listening and thoughtful adaptation.

Non-Judgemental
Guided by acceptance and openness, creating space for reflection in its work.

Strengths-Based & Growth-Oriented
Focuses on men’s capacities, fostering connection and well-being.

Research-Led
Guided by evidence, lived experience, and ethical practice, ensuring initiatives are informed, responsible, and relevant.

Key Points

🛡️
Safety
(Trauma-Informed)

🌎
Listening & Learning
(Culturally Humble)

💚
Acceptance
(Non-Judgemental)

⬆️
Growth
(Strengths-Based & 
 Growth-Oriented)

📖
Evidence
(Research-Led)

Voices of Support

Ark Aid Mission, London, ON

"Among men in particular, shame, stigma, and lack of appropriate services often prevent them from seeking help.
We have seen firsthand how these silent wounds can fuel cycles of crisis, disconnection, and despair."

"PATH for Men strives to close gaps in service by engaging communities to better understand the needs of male survivors
and explore ways to provide safe, inclusive support."

Support Resources for Men

Men carry many kinds of invisible weight—stress, loss, relationship challenges, or experiences from childhood and adulthood that can affect well-being. Whether or not you call it trauma, these resources offer information, connection, and guidance for healing.

Educational Resources

Bessel van der Kolk – Research, videos, and articles on how trauma impacts the brain and body.

Gabor Maté – Insights on trauma, addiction, and stress, emphasizing compassionate understanding.

Support for Sexual Trauma

MaleSurvivor.org

Webinars for education on male sexual trauma.

Chat forums for peer support.

1in6.org

 Information, tips, and connections for men who have had unwanted sexual experiences.

Mental Health & General Trauma Support

HeadsUpGuys – Supports men’s mental health, focusing on depression, stress, and well-being. Features include self-check tools, research-informed articles, recovery stories, and a therapist directory. 

BounceBack Ontario – Free skill-building program with telephone coaching, workbooks, and online videos to manage low mood, anxiety, and stress.

One-on-One Online Support

Carolyn Dillon, MSc, Transpersonal Thanatologist, and published researcher, offers companioning-style support for trauma- or death-related grief and loss. She provides a safe space for reflection and connection, while fostering hope and a sense of peace. (Professional liability insurance in place.)

Sliding scale: $35–$50/hour.

Steve Didham, RSW, owner of Phoenix Consulting and Counselling. With extensive experience supporting individuals through trauma, grief, and life transitions, he provides compassionate, client-centered care tailored to each person’s journey.

Voluntary Questionnaire

PATH for Men is exploring men’s experiences of stress, grief, and trauma. Completing this questionnaire is completely voluntary and anonymous. Your participation will help us improve support for men in the future.

The questionnaire will be available once ethics review is complete. In the meantime, you can contact us if you would like to learn more or be notified when it’s ready.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

PATH for Men | Email: cdillon@pathformen.ca

 PATH for Men provides educational resources. This site is not a substitute

 for professional medical or mental health care. If you are in crisis, please

 contact local emergency services or a trusted support line.

   © 2025 PATH for Men. All rights reserved.