Carlisle therapist starts groups focused on men's mental health

Jason Rusman

Business Name: Carlisle Men’s Work

Years in business: 1 year

Location: Carlisle

Contact: carlislemenswork.com or 717-502-2570

Q: Why did you want to start this kind of business?

A: As a therapist and a man who’s been through divorce, parenting struggles and the ups and downs of middle-aged adult life, I saw a real need for spaces where men can talk honestly — about relationships, anger, loneliness, purpose — without being judged or expected to “man up” or figure it out alone. Carlisle Men’s Work is helping men reconnect with themselves and each other in ways that are grounded, real and result in lasting change and growth.

Q: How did you get your start?

A: It started informally — conversations in my therapy practice, my own search for community in Cumberland County. I muddled my way through filing for an LLC and creating a social media page, came up with a screening process and started hosting weekly groups with two guys. I let colleagues and friends know, word spread, and it’s grown from there.

Q: What does your business sell or provide?

A: We offer small weekly in-person men’s groups (groups consist of the same five to eight guys) focused on emotional honesty, healthy masculinity and integrity, and personal growth. I also offer one-on-one therapy and occasional workshops on topics that impact men’s mental and relational health.

We have two groups currently running—one focused on supporting men dealing with separation, divorce and marital problems—the other for men who want to build friendships, tackle anxiety or work towards career, health and overall life goals. I have plans to start a third group in the coming months.

I am holding a workshop on Sept. 29 for men who want to address people-pleasing behaviors, resentment, patterns of dishonesty and avoidance in relationships, and lack of self-confidence.

Group members contribute between $15-$40 for each 90-minute group session; they do so anonymously, based on what they can afford. To whatever degree possible, I don’t want financial limitations to be a barrier for someone who is motivated to build community and improve his life.

Q: What is the biggest challenge you are facing right now?

A: Getting the word out. There’s still stigma around men seeking support, and most guys don’t know this kind of group even exists (probably because it hasn’t existed in our area, until now). I’m working on building visibility and helping people understand that this isn’t talk therapy in the traditional sense — it’s more relaxed, relational and community-oriented. There’s no pressure to share until you’re ready, and no expectation other than that you show up and be as honest as you’re able. Sometimes group is about getting support from others, but just as often, it’s about providing support and sharing your successes and hard-earned wisdom with guys who can benefit from hearing about what you’ve been through and what you have to offer.

Q: What is your favorite thing to do or place in Cumberland County?

A: One of my favorite things about living here is how easy it is to enjoy time outside. I like to paddleboard at Opossum Lake, go birding at LeTort Spring Garden Preserve and take my daughters to the pool and lakes. I also love how walkable downtown Carlisle is, and I feel fortunate to be raising my daughters in a community with deep roots and genuine small town vibes.