My Gender Therapist Has Suggested A Suport Group

[Guest Girl Emily]

I everyone,

My GT has suggested that I start attending a peer run transgender coming out support group that meets at the local lgbt center. I am in total agreement with her. I want to meet other transgendered for support and the possiblity of developing some new friendships. Good friendships are forged in the heat of adversity and overcoming it. I don't know what to wear. I have never been in public as Emily and this would be a safe place for her to make her debut. In fact I would probably feel more uncomfortable in male mode.

If anyone has attended a similar support group what was style of dress?

I am open to all suggestions.

I will have to change at the center because I cross an international border so my options are limited somewhat.

Huggs,

[Guest BeckyTG]

Sweet Emily,

When in doubt, always dress casual in good taste.

When I had finally accepted my true self and decided to start therapy and make my journey official, I called a nice department store and explained that I was a newly transitioning woman who needed a lot of fashion help. I asked if they had anyone working there who'd be interested in being my "personal shopping assistant" to help me buy some nice clothes. I went on to say that if they weren't comfortable with this, I'd go to another store, as I told them I didn't want anyone to be uncomfortable, but I was under a Doctor's care and I wasn't a pervert. I just wanted to do some shopping and be able to try things on to be sure the look and fit were right.

I was welcomed. I bought some slacks and tops, as I said I wanted to blend in with all the other women at the mall. I also had them help me pick out necklaces and bracelets to go with each outfit. I ended up with nice casual clothes that I'm proud to wear anywhere and I really fit in and look very nice doing so. I've gotten a lot of compliments from other women. My GT even commented on my nice taste at my last session.

If you dress this way, you're sure to be accepted and not feel self conscious about your appearance. I'm glad you're doing this. This is so important to your development, every one of us needs to do this.

My group meets monthly and I'll be at tonight's meeting. Wooohooo.

Hugs,

Becky

[Guest]

Hello Emily,

There's no dress code for our group! Some are unable to dress at all, and others come dressed to the 9's. I dressed in the middle the first time - jeans, a blouse, and a hoodie. Last time I wore a mid-thigh skort and simple sandals - I felt a bit over-dressed like that. Will probably go back to jeans or maybe capris.

Our group has the some of the feeling that Laura's does: Wide variations in people as well as acceptance with open arms. Don't be too concerned how you go - you'll get a lot out of it!

Love, Kat

[Guest Girl Emily]

Thank you all for your replies.

I will most likely wear jeans and a top of some casual design.

I am in complete agreement that it will be memorable, beneficial and I will meet very accepting people. I probably just won't sleep the night before and have those unappealing circles under my eyes as I make the leap anyway ;-)

Huggs,

[Carolyn Marie]

Emily, I'm happy for you that you're going to meet other Trans-folks. It will be fun and empowering to meet others who share your problems,

joys, hopes and dreams. I hope new friendships form as a result.

Go in whatever fashion your mood takes you, and you'll be fine. I wish you a good time with good people. Be sure and let us know how it went, OK?

Carolyn Marie

[Guest Donna Jean]

Emily....

How very cool!

I'll bet that you really enjoy it!

I'd love to go to one, but, I live in the Ohio boonies (drive to the middle of nowhere, make a right and drive 8 miles....)

And, of course, you're gonna tell us all about it....right?

HUGGS!

Donna Jean