Becoming a Father is the Biggest transition most men face.

But most men are expected to figure it out alone.

Becoming Dad helps men prepare emotionally, mentally, and relationally for fatherhood.

See What the Becoming Dad Program is About

✔ Designed for expecting fathers and new dads
✔ Evidence-based support for men
✔ Practical tools for fatherhood and relationships

Why Supporting Fathers Matters

Becoming a father is one of the most profound life transitions a man can experience.

Yet many men report feeling:

  • Unprepared

  • Isolated

  • Unsure how to support their partner

  • Overwhelmed by the responsibility of a new child

Research shows that up to 1 in 10 fathers experience postpartum depression.

When fathers are supported, the entire family benefits.


What Is the Becoming Dad Program?

Becoming Dad is a structured group program designed to help men navigate the emotional, psychological, and relational transition into fatherhood with confidence and support.

The program integrates research from perinatal mental health, nervous system regulation, and family systems to prepare fathers for one of the most important transitions of their lives.

Each Session focuses on Four Key areas of the transition into Fatherhood:

Emotional Transition

This program helps men understand and navigate the emotional and identity shifts that come with becoming a dad.

Nervous System Regulation

Fathers learn practical stress management and nervous system regulation tools to stay grounded, present, and resilient.

Relationships & Family

We explore communication, partnership dynamics, and how dads can support both their partner and their growing family system.

Brotherhood & Community

Many men feel isolated during the transition into parenthood. We create a space for honest conversations with other men on the same path.

The result is a program that helps fathers move through the transition into parenthood with more awareness, support, and confidence.


What Fathers Walk Away With

The Becoming Dad program gives men practical tools and support for navigating early fatherhood.

Confidence as a Father

Instead of guessing how to show up as a dad, men gain clarity and confidence in their role.

Tools for Stress & Overwhelm

Practical tools to manage stress, sleep disruption, and emotional overwhelm.

Stronger Partnership

Fathers learn how to support their partner and communicate more effectively.

Connection with Other Dads

Honest conversations with fathers navigating the same transition in the same geographic area.


Who This Program is For

You are expecting your first child

Your baby was born within the past 6 months

You want to be a better father

You want to be a more supportive partner

You want tools for stress and emotional regulation

You want connection with other dads

You want to learn about other resources


Program Format

LENGTH

6 Weeks

Duration

75 to 90 Minutes

FORMAT

Small Groups (Virtual)

EACH SESSION INCLUDES:

NERVOUS SYSTEM EDUCATION • PRACTICAL REGULATION TOOLS • RELATIONSHIP SKILL BUILDING • PEER SUPPORT • RESOURCE REFERRALS

Meet the Team behind Becoming Dad

Becoming Dad was created by fathers, for fathers — combining our professional experience in mental health, education, and community building with the real-world wisdom that comes from navigating fatherhood ourselves.

Dan Kline, LCSWA

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

LICENSED THERAPIST

Dan is a licensed therapist and men’s wellbeing educator based in North Carolina. His work focuses on helping men develop emotional awareness, resilience, and deeper connection in their relationships and families.

Through his clinical practice and his work with the Authentc Men community, Dan has supported hundreds of men in navigating major life transitions—including fatherhood—with greater presence, confidence, and purpose.

Tom Szigethy, MSW

CURRICULUM &

WELLNESS LEAD

Tom is a wellness educator and former Assistant Dean at Duke University with decades of experience supporting personal growth, leadership development, and emotional wellbeing.

Throughout his career, Tom has worked with individuals and organizations to cultivate greater self-awareness, resilience, and authentic leadership. Through Becoming Dad, he helps translate these principles into practical tools that support fathers as they navigate the profound transition into parenthood.

Phillip Gaynor

PROGRAM STRATEGY &

PARTNERSHIPS

Phillip is an entrepreneur and community builder focused on developing programs that support men’s growth, connection, and purpose.

As CEO of Authentc Men, he leads the strategic development and partnerships that allow initiatives like Becoming Dad to reach more fathers and families. His work is driven by a belief that when men are supported in becoming more present and engaged fathers, the wellbeing of entire families and communities improves.

The Becoming Dad program draws from experience in clinical therapy, higher education, and men’s community leadership.


Fatherhood is too important to do alone

Becoming Dad gives men the tools, support, and community they need to navigate the transition into fatherhood.

Still have questions?

Interested in bringing Becoming Dad to your organization?

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