Therapist Who is Trans?

[emeraldmountain2]

Does anyone have any recommendations on how to find a therapist who is transgender and/or nonbinary?

 

I have not had much luck with cisgender therapists who don't truly understand gender dysphoria. I'm thinking a trans/nonbinary therapist who actually knows first hand what gender dysphoria feels like is someone with whom I'd like to work, especially someone who knows the pain of physical dysphoria.

 

I've looked at various directories (like Psychology Today and LGBT-focused ones), but am not having much luck looking for someone who also knows how to treat OCD. It's like looking for a needle in a haystack mountain. I only want to see them in person.

 

Thanks.

[VickySGV]

Your very best bet on this is to contact your nearest LGBTQ Community Center, they generally have a referral list frequently from their own membership. The LGBTQ Centers are often in affiliation with LGB and Trans specific medical organizations who are well staffed. 

[emeraldmountain2]

Thank you Vicky.

[Carolyn Marie]

If you happen to live in Southern California I can provide a couple of recommendations.  Please PM me.

 

Carolyn Marie

[KayC]

@emeraldmountain - I have had two therapists who were great.  Neither was Trans, but both were part of the Queer community.  One lesbian (first), and the other pan-sexual (current).  They also don't know what it is to be Trans any more than a cis-gender therapist.  But they do know about the struggles with self/social acceptance and dealing with the more general aspects of dysphoria.

It would be nice to have a trans-therapist, but knowing that even in the Trans community we're all so different, I am not sure that is particularly Qualifying.  Most therapists don't share or identify with their patients specific underlying situation, but if they are good therapists (emphasis on the Good) then they know how to assist them in their Journey.

But, if you truly want a trans-therapist I very much hope you find one.  Mostly, I am happy for you that you're determined to continue therapy and make progress in your Journey.

[emeraldmountain2]

Thank you for your kind words @KayC. You make good points.

 

[AllieJ]

On 12/7/2023 at 11:13 PM, KayC said:

@emeraldmountain - I have had two therapists who were great.  Neither was Trans, but both were part of the Queer community.  One lesbian (first), and the other pan-sexual (current).  They also don't know what it is to be Trans any more than a cis-gender therapist.  But they do know about the struggles with self/social acceptance and dealing with the more general aspects of dysphoria.

It would be nice to have a trans-therapist, but knowing that even in the Trans community we're all so different, I am not sure that is particularly Qualifying.  Most therapists don't share or identify with their patients specific underlying situation, but if they are good therapists (emphasis on the Good) then they know how to assist them in their Journey.

But, if you truly want a trans-therapist I very much hope you find one.  Mostly, I am happy for you that you're determined to continue therapy and make progress in your Journey.

 

I would echo Kays comments, I know a Non Binary therapist, but I would not recommend them to anyone as all they can offer is relaxation techniques. Trans and Non Binary people need to understand who they are and find strategies to accept and cope with this, but most psychologists focus on avoidance and distraction. While mindfulness is nice, it doesn't stop the self questioning and feelings of being less than others, or develop strategies to enhance our lives. Therapist that can help with these are rare and invaluable.

 

Hugs,

 

Allie

[emeraldmountain2]

1 hour ago, AllieJ said:

Therapist that can help with these are rare and invaluable.

They sure are. I have yet to meet one after working with some.