FAQ’S
We are funded by donations. Participants are encouraged to contribute what they can. This ensures the same resource is open to men of all socio-economic groups. It also reflects the fact that we don’t exist to exploit men for profit. We exist, in part, to help men find value outside of exploitative systems.
What does it cost?
No. It’s base level support through community, led by therapists. It’s meant to provide men with tools (psychoeducation) and connection so that they have a foundation to pursue their own health. Should men choose to explore deeper individual work in therapy we can help them find a good fit.
Is it therapy?
No. We are not affiliated with any organized religion. But we are also not opposed to faith and faith communities playing important roles in men’s lives. And because we value the exploration of meaning and narrative, we encourage honest spiritual reflection.
Is it religious?
Yes, in the sense that applying one’s values always has a political dimension. We are not a vehicle of any partisan group, but we are not neutral in our commitments to justice, equality, love, and moral integrity.
Is it political?
How do we view gender?
There are biological differences in human beings that are appropriately understood in relation to maleness and femaleness. But this is a simplified binary and in reality the characteristics of maleness and femaleness manifest differently in every body. Masculinity and femininity are constantly evolving cultural constructs distinct from biological realities. We respect each person’s process of working out their relationship with the ways biological maleness expresses in their body and the ways masculinity relates to their sense of self.
How do we view sexuality?
Everyone wants to experience reciprocated love and connection. We respect each person’s pursuit of healthy romantic relationships, whether that’s with women or other men.
The term Union evokes a sense of wholeness, the opposite of being fractured. It also relates to relational connection and mutual support. Lodge is a nod to the fraternal orders and places men have gathered for centuries.
What’s with the name?
To get Union Lodge off the ground we’ll need to raise initial funds, build a network of facilitators and the legal structure, then create curriculum. If you’d like to help in any capacity, email sean@union-therapy.com.