One of the problems we have is that we indentify with our work very strongly.To point where it becomes our indentity.This is dysfunctional and creates lots of problems..As you wrote he got a "lower paid" job. At a deep level he might feel he is "less of a man", unworthy?, a failure?.Let him know you dont care what he does for work, That is not who he is.And use whatever your drawn to,RS,wendi's,Lanie', or just visualise.