Looking for direction.

[Lilkb]

Soo, a little back story, I don't know if this is the proper way to word this but, I've felt for a long time,  that I wanted to start hrt, but I never acted on it or sought information out of fear for being shunned, but can anyone advise me on where to even to start the process. I live in Kentucky. I don't know if I have to be approved for anything, or meet any requirements etc, I really don't know anything 

[jae bear]

I can completely sympathize with your feelings and worries... I could go into great detail about myself but I will instead cut to the chase. The two things that got me on the road to aligning my body with my identity are, finding a fantastic gender therapist  (found him in the therapist resource section on this forum) and then telling my doctor that I identify as trans once I was sure this was the only path for me. I would add to this (if you are married) telling you significant other precisely how you feel and be completely honest or risk massive damage for hiding secrets like I did... On top of all this I rely on the wonderful folks here for love and support. Welcome to a wonderful place full of helpful and amazing people who would be happy to help guide you, ask away, we are all here to listen and support you.

Hugs,

Jae

[Cyndee]

Many Dr's want a referral from a therapist before prescribing hormones. Some practice on "Informed consent", meaning you sign a form acknowledging the risks before starting. Recommended reading would include WPATH SOC document

 

https://www.wpath.org/publications/soc

 

Best wishes,

 

C -

[Charlize]

Welcome Lilkb,

 

Take a deep breath and understand that this is not a race.  I know i waited most of my life.  I was impatient but at the same time i'm glad it took time to start HRT and the process of transition.  Spending time here, reading of others and writing about myself helped me to find a path.  I also went to a gender therapist as suggested here and that helped immensely.  It was critical for self discovery, self acceptance, negotiating the difficulties of coming out and getting the medical support i needed(ie.HRT).

Glad your here.  There is no reason to be shy.

 

Hugs,

 

Charlize

[Jani]

Welcome Lilkb.  As others have noted a therapist is a great start to getting on the road to the real you.  You can find the requirements for beginning HRT from them.  A good therapist won't tell you who or what you are but will help you discover your path.  If there is a Planned Parenthood nearby you might contact them to see if they offer HRT services.

 

Cheers, Jani