Episode Details

Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst is a psychologist, writer, and therapist specializing in men, boys, and couples. Her career began working with preschool boys labeled as “problematic,” where she saw firsthand how culture restricts boys’ emotional development from an early age.

Over time her work expanded to fathers, husbands, and couples, helping men access blocked emotions and build healthier relationships using Internal Family Systems and Emotion-Focused Therapy. She helps individuals understand how their past silently shapes their present.

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Gloria shares:

• How she first became interested in psychology

• The patterns she saw in preschool boys labeled as problematic

• What the “emotional desert” for boys really means

• How culture trains boys not to cry or express tender feelings

• Why many men struggle with intimacy

• Practical ways fathers and caregivers can protect boys’ emotional health

If you’re in your 20s (or beyond) curious about emotional development, relationships, or why connection can feel hard for men, this episode offers clear, research-backed insight.

Timestamps below ⬇️

#GloriaVanderhorst #BoysEmotions #Intimacy #MentalHealth #ConversationsWithSekani

Connect with Gloria Vanderhorst

Website:https://www.drvanderhorst.com/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloria-vanderhorst-ph-d-730826b/

If conversations with Sekani sparks something in you, do well to share to someone who you think might need this. Subscribe so you don’t miss new episodes.

If you have a minute leaving a review helps more people discover these everyday unique voices and the insight they carry. Your support means the world.

Want to be a guest on Conversation with Sekani? Send a message to Joy https://www.podmatch.com/member/conversationswithsekani

Chapters

0:00 - Intro & Welcome Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst

1:40 - How She Became Interested in Psychology

8:15 - Working with Preschool Boys Labeled “Problematic”

15:30 - The Emotional Desert for Boys

23:10 - How Culture Restricts Boys’ Emotional Expression

31:45 - Why Men Struggle with Intimacy

40:20 - What Fathers Can Do to Protect Emotional Health

48:50 - Learning to Access Blocked Emotions

57:15 - Final Advice for Young Adults on Connection & Feeling