“I Was Heard”: Experiences of Professional Counseling for Men in Uganda

Professional counseling is an emerging practice in African nations, including Uganda. While there is need for mental health services, social stigma related to seeking professional counseling services represents a barrier to accessing mental health resources. Stigma is especially present for men due to gender roles and strong pressure to display strength and resilience. This qualitative hermeneutic phenomenological inquiry explored men’s counseling experiences in Uganda. The primary purpose of the study was to explore and understand how men experience receiving counseling in a Ugandan context where counseling is a new profession. Eight Ugandan men were interviewed about their experiences in professional counseling. Analysis was completed through the hermeneutic circle, whole-parts-whole, reflexive journal, and thematic analysis. The themes of “Talking to Strangers,” “Building Castles,” and “I Was Heard” contribute to the existing literature and give voice to Ugandan men’s unique experiences of utilizing professional counseling in the Ugandan context. Implications and practical recommendations for counselors and counselor educators were provided for consideration for future professional development.