Looking for a GT in Portland, OR

[Guest Kelly-087]

Hopefully that's not disclosing too much of my own details. Anyways, I'm ready to find myself a GT (After several months).

My initial concerns are of course within insurance plans.. I have fairly good coverage with Kaiser.. And I'm looking for members in this area, and under their coverage with experience on this.

While I've looked over my provider's website, it mentions scheduling an appointment with my doctor, or calling their health services. Honestly, I just don't feel comfortable discussing this yet with anyone that's not going to be treating me. While I have located some therapists that do deal with transsexual issues, and supposedly accept my insurance.. I don't know if they want the specifications are to that.

Anyways, any help appreciated.

[Guest GinaInside]

Hi Kelly,

I live in PDX, too. I went to a GT in the downtown area back in the mid-90's, but have not been to one since. It's on my to-do list, once other issues are somewhat straightened out.

You may be able to find one through the local LGBT groups. The one I went to worked with low-income people (as most of are, or seem to be!), so maybe you could go that route, until you commit to going through your health insurance.

Here is a local link to a resource group: http://www.sarabecker.com/t/

Hope this helps.

Hugz,

Gina Renee

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[Guest Kelly-087]

It isn't so much that I don't want to go through insurance. It's just that I want to talk to only a therapist at this point.

Thanks for posting the resources.

[Guest GinaInside]

You're welcome for the link.

Here is another: http://www.resourcespdx.org/

Hugz,

Gina Renee

[Guest Kelly-087]

Thanks for the link again. That one is really useful.

I decided I'm just going to have to "man up" (hopefully one of the last times I use that term) and somehow talk to my doc about therapy when i go in for an appointment this month.

Any tips to help make it less awkward, or to help make me feel comfortable doing this (big step.) especially from people who have dealt with this system would be so greatly appreciated.

[Guest GinaInside]

It has been some time for me, but it did take me quite some time to summon the courage to just go say what I needed to say. Yes, it is an awkward situation, just take a deep breath, and be honest. You may be better off seeing the GT before a Doc. The GT will be able to advise you in dealing with a Doc.

Hugz,

Gina Renee

[Guest Kelly-087]

I've been thinking I may make a call to the mental health offices.. I've got a bit of time to decide. It will probably be easier to request on the phone than in person. I've looked at some of the resources, and I fully feel that I am better seeking a GT through my health care services.

[Guest GinaInside]

However you decide to go, I wish you all the best. Please be careful at work.

Hugz,

Gina Renee

[Guest Lacey Lynne]

Kelly:

By reputation, reportedly the best gender therapist in Portland is:

http://www.transtherapist.com/

Whose office is at:

http://www.pdxqcenter.org/

Who refers people to Portland's best doctor for transsexuals:

http://www.nwpc.com/biopages/biobecker.html

Also, Gina Renee (above) gave you GREAT advice. Go with what she said too. Excellent, excellent advice.

Peace Lacey

Postscript:

Yes, Dr. Sara is my HRT doctor.

Yes, Reid is my GT.

Yes, I've been to The Q Center.

Note:

Reid is booked solid and is very hard to get an appointment with; however, please do try if you want to.

Both Reid and Dr. Sara are transsexuals too ... the old "takes one to know one" idea ... and it works!