Transgender Therapists in Fort Saskatchewan, AB
![Photo of Amanda Balsillie, SW Dip, BSW, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0772f9f3-4dce-4222-a9bb-eb9608fd4226/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Balsillie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, SW Dip, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L
Amanda Balsillie, SW Dip, BSW, MSW, RSW. Please Note: I cannot direct bill to NIHB. I take a holistic approach in therapy and want to make sure you are heard and what you are experiencing or going through is supported in therapy. I want every client to feel accepted, validated and empowered to continue in their personal journey.
Amanda Balsillie, SW Dip, BSW, MSW, RSW. Please Note: I cannot direct bill to NIHB. I take a holistic approach in therapy and want to make sure you are heard and what you are experiencing or going through is supported in therapy. I want every client to feel accepted, validated and empowered to continue in their personal journey.
![Photo of Christie Satie, MC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6c36c10-de02-46d9-8a83-176bbc76c415/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am honoured to support people in finding their path to healing. I believe that we have our own capacity to move through difficult times and know that taking this step can be pretty tricky. My approach is gentle and fairly eclectic, I tend to use the modality that best suits the clients needs with an attachment based lens. I tend to focus on play therapy and emotion focused therapies with children as well as utilize some dyad work. With adults I tend to use EMDR, trauma processing, solution focused therapy, person centred and emotion focussed therapy modalities. I offer a free 15 minute consultation to ensure I am the right fit.
I am honoured to support people in finding their path to healing. I believe that we have our own capacity to move through difficult times and know that taking this step can be pretty tricky. My approach is gentle and fairly eclectic, I tend to use the modality that best suits the clients needs with an attachment based lens. I tend to focus on play therapy and emotion focused therapies with children as well as utilize some dyad work. With adults I tend to use EMDR, trauma processing, solution focused therapy, person centred and emotion focussed therapy modalities. I offer a free 15 minute consultation to ensure I am the right fit.
![Photo of Lisa Kreager, MEd, MC, Registered Provisional Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fecd377-8030-40ea-9d82-8ac9bdbc4961/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Kreager
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MEd, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L
For over 20 years, I have supported individuals from diverse lived experiences who have wanted to: address old wounds, gain insight into why they do what they do, and break undesirable thinking and behaviour patterns. Throughout my career as a certified inclusive education teacher and counsellor, I have helped students and adult learners with achieving their personal, interpersonal, relational, academic, and career aspirations. From conducting assessments to processing complex trauma, I am proficient with matching the intervention with your unique needs.
For over 20 years, I have supported individuals from diverse lived experiences who have wanted to: address old wounds, gain insight into why they do what they do, and break undesirable thinking and behaviour patterns. Throughout my career as a certified inclusive education teacher and counsellor, I have helped students and adult learners with achieving their personal, interpersonal, relational, academic, and career aspirations. From conducting assessments to processing complex trauma, I am proficient with matching the intervention with your unique needs.
![Photo of Lyvia Hughes, MA, Registered Provisional Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18b1c6d4-6e7f-4e87-ba7c-bce5a9f67e23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lyvia Hughes
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L
I am a kink-conscious, trauma-informed therapist that works with couples, ENM, and Polyamorous individuals, as well as sex therapy. I also take on a number of individual clients, that deal with a myriad of issues, including depression, anxiety, and trauma related concerns. I primarily serve adults and couples, but have experience with families and children.
I am a kink-conscious, trauma-informed therapist that works with couples, ENM, and Polyamorous individuals, as well as sex therapy. I also take on a number of individual clients, that deal with a myriad of issues, including depression, anxiety, and trauma related concerns. I primarily serve adults and couples, but have experience with families and children.
![Photo of Kimberley Hedstrom (Leblanc), MSc , R Psyc, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84956313-be2d-4714-85f4-5f8e150a3e37/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberley Hedstrom (Leblanc)
Psychologist, MSc , R Psyc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L
As a registered psychologist and having been in private practice for 14 years, I have had the privilege to meet and work with many wonderful couples, families and individuals. I strive to establish a solid rapport with clients in a comfortable environment. I have been told that clients appreciate my professional and direct approach that is not overly formal and allows for humour when appropriate. I use a biopsychosocial approach and incorporate several therapeutic modalities. I work to not only focus on managing symptoms, but getting down to the root cause of what is getting in the way of being able to achieve one’s goals.
As a registered psychologist and having been in private practice for 14 years, I have had the privilege to meet and work with many wonderful couples, families and individuals. I strive to establish a solid rapport with clients in a comfortable environment. I have been told that clients appreciate my professional and direct approach that is not overly formal and allows for humour when appropriate. I use a biopsychosocial approach and incorporate several therapeutic modalities. I work to not only focus on managing symptoms, but getting down to the root cause of what is getting in the way of being able to achieve one’s goals.
![Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, CCC, RCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d510011-a656-4144-a42b-0289f6aafdf3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, CCC, RCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
![Photo of Jenny Van de Veen, MC, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52802ac1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenny Van de Veen
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L
Not accepting new clients
I am a Registered Psychologist offering a supportive, non-judgmental, and safe environment to help support you through life's challenges that may have you feeling stuck or overwhelmed. Whether you are struggling with a current concern or feeling like past events are impacting your present day life and relationships, seeking support may offer a way to move forward. I genuinely enjoy getting to know each of my clients, and I tailor my approach based on each individual's unique needs.
I am a Registered Psychologist offering a supportive, non-judgmental, and safe environment to help support you through life's challenges that may have you feeling stuck or overwhelmed. Whether you are struggling with a current concern or feeling like past events are impacting your present day life and relationships, seeking support may offer a way to move forward. I genuinely enjoy getting to know each of my clients, and I tailor my approach based on each individual's unique needs.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Ashif Kassam - Lumina Counselling Services, MA, BSc, RPN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43c3a168-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lumina Counselling Services
Psychiatric Nurse, MA, BSc, RPN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood Park, AB T8E
I help people overcome anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship issues, and many others. I ensure that my clients have the tools to maintain the gains they have made with me. The services I offer are effective, efficient, collaborative, and affordable. I have an extensive clinical and academic background in psychology, psychiatry, and pharmacology. Moreover, my education in the humanities and my personal varied background helps me serve clients dealing with multicultural, cross-cultural, and family matters. I have been in a private practice since 2009 with 25 years of experience in the field. I also teach at MacEwan University.
I help people overcome anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship issues, and many others. I ensure that my clients have the tools to maintain the gains they have made with me. The services I offer are effective, efficient, collaborative, and affordable. I have an extensive clinical and academic background in psychology, psychiatry, and pharmacology. Moreover, my education in the humanities and my personal varied background helps me serve clients dealing with multicultural, cross-cultural, and family matters. I have been in a private practice since 2009 with 25 years of experience in the field. I also teach at MacEwan University.
![Photo of Stewart Cranston, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da399dd1-0f09-42c3-8133-509f2f560ee1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stewart Cranston
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sherwood Park, AB T8E
Waitlist for new clients
Most of us have a sense of the reasons for our difficulties. Yet, we still struggle to work through those issues, understand how they all fit together, and make lasting changes. My approach to therapy fundamentally involves helping clients to find insight about their difficulties through coming to a deeper understanding of themselves, and about understanding how trauma has impacted their lives. One of the ingredients to my approach is self-compassion. With self-compassion comes the ability to see oneself clearly, freedom to become one's true self, and relief from self-consciousness, depression, shame, fear, and anxiety.
Most of us have a sense of the reasons for our difficulties. Yet, we still struggle to work through those issues, understand how they all fit together, and make lasting changes. My approach to therapy fundamentally involves helping clients to find insight about their difficulties through coming to a deeper understanding of themselves, and about understanding how trauma has impacted their lives. One of the ingredients to my approach is self-compassion. With self-compassion comes the ability to see oneself clearly, freedom to become one's true self, and relief from self-consciousness, depression, shame, fear, and anxiety.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Mateo Huezo, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2e9e0ab-d5e8-45f5-97eb-e0511bb306a4/1/320x400.png)
My training and specializations include using postmodern and feminist approaches, play and arts in therapy, cognitive behavioural approaches, and approaches that meet the World Professional Association for Transgender Health's Standards for Care.
Welcome! I'm so glad you found your way here. My name is Mateo Huezo and I'm a Latin Patlacheh (2 Spirit) person who works with folks across Alberta. I work with folks who are navigating issues around mood, anxiety, stress, burnout, trauma, grief, and more. Most of my work has been within 2SLGBTQ+ communities, with folks who are neurodivergent, and/or folks who are racially diverse in this society.
My training and specializations include using postmodern and feminist approaches, play and arts in therapy, cognitive behavioural approaches, and approaches that meet the World Professional Association for Transgender Health's Standards for Care.
Welcome! I'm so glad you found your way here. My name is Mateo Huezo and I'm a Latin Patlacheh (2 Spirit) person who works with folks across Alberta. I work with folks who are navigating issues around mood, anxiety, stress, burnout, trauma, grief, and more. Most of my work has been within 2SLGBTQ+ communities, with folks who are neurodivergent, and/or folks who are racially diverse in this society.
![Photo of Leslie Pearson, MC, R Psych, CPT-S, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb8cf2c7-ded0-4878-a7bb-307a49af905d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a member in good standing of the College of Alberta Psychologists, Psychologists’ Association of Alberta, Canadian Association for Play Therapy, World Professional Association for Transgender Health, and the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I am a certified play therapist and supervisor (CPT-S) through the Canadian Association of Play Therapy (CAPT). I take an integrative, client-centered approach to therapy, which also incorporates modalities such as sandtray, attachment theory, polyvagal theory, sensorimotor psychotherapy, narrative therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, Theraplay, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), family systems, and others.
I am a member in good standing of the College of Alberta Psychologists, Psychologists’ Association of Alberta, Canadian Association for Play Therapy, World Professional Association for Transgender Health, and the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I am a certified play therapist and supervisor (CPT-S) through the Canadian Association of Play Therapy (CAPT). I take an integrative, client-centered approach to therapy, which also incorporates modalities such as sandtray, attachment theory, polyvagal theory, sensorimotor psychotherapy, narrative therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, Theraplay, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), family systems, and others.
![Photo of Rose Ann Swanson - R.A. Swanson Psychological Services, MC, RPsych, CSAT, CFTP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eca070d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
R.A. Swanson Psychological Services
Psychologist, MC, RPsych, CSAT, CFTP
Verified Verified
Plamondon, AB T0A
I am a Trauma & Addiction Specialist and am currently working on my PhD in Clinical Sexology with a Transgender Care Specialization.
I am a Registered Psychologist/Mental Health Therapist. I have been working in the area of Human Services for over 30 years. For the past 18 years I have worked in the area of clinical counselling assessing, diagnosing and treating individuals with mental health issues. I have worked with couples, families as well as groups. My passion has always been to empower individuals with focus on their health and I am committed to doing the best I can to promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.
I am a Trauma & Addiction Specialist and am currently working on my PhD in Clinical Sexology with a Transgender Care Specialization.
I am a Registered Psychologist/Mental Health Therapist. I have been working in the area of Human Services for over 30 years. For the past 18 years I have worked in the area of clinical counselling assessing, diagnosing and treating individuals with mental health issues. I have worked with couples, families as well as groups. My passion has always been to empower individuals with focus on their health and I am committed to doing the best I can to promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.
![Photo of Clare Acheson, MC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fb0000f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a registered psychologist with a diverse range of counselling experience. My approach is gentle, yet effective. It is grounded in evidence based practices, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), eye-movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), and solution focused therapy (SFT). My clients have successfully addressed concerns including: trauma, anxiety, depression, abuse, grief, discrimination, gender dysphoria, low self-worth, self-harm, substance use, communication and relationship concerns.
I am a registered psychologist with a diverse range of counselling experience. My approach is gentle, yet effective. It is grounded in evidence based practices, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), eye-movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), and solution focused therapy (SFT). My clients have successfully addressed concerns including: trauma, anxiety, depression, abuse, grief, discrimination, gender dysphoria, low self-worth, self-harm, substance use, communication and relationship concerns.
![Photo of Brittany Sales, MC, BA, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76a8b7ec-d6b5-41e5-907d-0d8b5365c314/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Brittany and I work with individuals & couples/partners seeking support while navigating life challenges. I have experience working with mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, relationships, grief/loss; & concerns associated with gender (transgender exploration; affirmation; identity), sexuality (2SLGBTQ+; BDSM/kink identity exploration), reproduction (fertility; pregnancy; post-partum), ethical non-monogamy & alternative relationship styles, & religious trauma (trauma recovery; folks who either want to transition out of their religion or who want to maintain their religious identity).
Hi, I'm Brittany and I work with individuals & couples/partners seeking support while navigating life challenges. I have experience working with mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, relationships, grief/loss; & concerns associated with gender (transgender exploration; affirmation; identity), sexuality (2SLGBTQ+; BDSM/kink identity exploration), reproduction (fertility; pregnancy; post-partum), ethical non-monogamy & alternative relationship styles, & religious trauma (trauma recovery; folks who either want to transition out of their religion or who want to maintain their religious identity).
![Photo of Veronica Del Peral Ramos, MACP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae358bb0-5381-4263-b342-831540a115ec/1/320x400.jpeg)
I consider myself a person-centered and strength-based therapist. I believe that my clients are the experts in their own lives, and my role is to support them, be curious, offer insight, and help organize their thoughts and emotions. This approach aims to create space for healing, processing, growth, and achieving one’s full potential for a wholehearted life. I love supporting people through transitions towards healing. My passion lies in the lifelong journey of empowering people to process pain, find resilience, and foster hope.
I consider myself a person-centered and strength-based therapist. I believe that my clients are the experts in their own lives, and my role is to support them, be curious, offer insight, and help organize their thoughts and emotions. This approach aims to create space for healing, processing, growth, and achieving one’s full potential for a wholehearted life. I love supporting people through transitions towards healing. My passion lies in the lifelong journey of empowering people to process pain, find resilience, and foster hope.
![Photo of Michelle R. Gartner-Mall, MA, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3df487de-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At times anxiety, depression and/or trauma may impede an individual's natural ability to cope. I believe when a safe and supportive environment is created, individuals may openly explore their struggles and find healthier ways of coping. I have many years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families regarding development, disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders, and brain injury/stroke. For the past 10 years, I have specialized in supporting sexual and gender diverse children, youth, and families.
At times anxiety, depression and/or trauma may impede an individual's natural ability to cope. I believe when a safe and supportive environment is created, individuals may openly explore their struggles and find healthier ways of coping. I have many years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families regarding development, disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders, and brain injury/stroke. For the past 10 years, I have specialized in supporting sexual and gender diverse children, youth, and families.
![Photo of Douglas Arthur Rusk, RAC/RCT, RPC-C, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a6ed035-97c0-49b8-a59f-de6791fb7375/1/320x400.jpeg)
Douglas Arthur Rusk
Counsellor, RAC/RCT, RPC-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5H (Online Only)
Ideal clients for Douglas Rusk are individuals facing complex life challenges, seeking transformative growth. They grapple with issues like trauma, addiction, and identity. They yearn for a compassionate guide to help them navigate these dark waters. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to heal, understand themselves, and reclaim their lives. Their goal is profound: to emerge from adversity stronger, with renewed purpose and authenticity. They seek Douglas because he embodies these values, offering hope, healing, and a path to self-discovery.
Ideal clients for Douglas Rusk are individuals facing complex life challenges, seeking transformative growth. They grapple with issues like trauma, addiction, and identity. They yearn for a compassionate guide to help them navigate these dark waters. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to heal, understand themselves, and reclaim their lives. Their goal is profound: to emerge from adversity stronger, with renewed purpose and authenticity. They seek Douglas because he embodies these values, offering hope, healing, and a path to self-discovery.
![Photo of Christina Larsen, MSW, RCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c335f1e2-de43-4a73-a4a9-45fed4ec0b2a/2/320x400.jpeg)
My work with people is rooted in the belief that we all have the strength and wisdom within ourselves to make the changes we wish to see. Within the context of a safe and meaningful therapeutic relationship, new ways of being can emerge. Living more fully aligned with our values and increasing our awareness of unhelpful patterns can allow us to live a more meaningful, vibrant, and joyful life. By working collaboratively with you at your own pace, I can support you in expanding your self-awareness and changing the maladaptive beliefs or behaviours that are getting in the way of living the full and rich life that you imagine.
My work with people is rooted in the belief that we all have the strength and wisdom within ourselves to make the changes we wish to see. Within the context of a safe and meaningful therapeutic relationship, new ways of being can emerge. Living more fully aligned with our values and increasing our awareness of unhelpful patterns can allow us to live a more meaningful, vibrant, and joyful life. By working collaboratively with you at your own pace, I can support you in expanding your self-awareness and changing the maladaptive beliefs or behaviours that are getting in the way of living the full and rich life that you imagine.
![Photo of Cristin Raven - Raven Art Therapy, DVATI, BFA, MEd, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56a1d136-0fd6-49f5-b044-caa16c532733/8/320x400.jpeg)
Cristin Raven - Raven Art Therapy
Art Therapist, DVATI, BFA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
Art Therapy is great for youth & adults who have difficulty expressing themselves verbally. Experience with art making is Not necessary because we use materials in multiple ways. This mode of therapy is effective for those who have experienced trauma, by giving the client an opportunity to heal in a preverbal manner. The therapeutic use of art materials is good for anyone struggling with anxiety or stress. Working with an Art Therapist can untangle thoughts, re-imagine past patterns and create multiple ways to get unstuck. Instead of having to form thoughts through speech, we process through imagery, in a hands on manner.
Art Therapy is great for youth & adults who have difficulty expressing themselves verbally. Experience with art making is Not necessary because we use materials in multiple ways. This mode of therapy is effective for those who have experienced trauma, by giving the client an opportunity to heal in a preverbal manner. The therapeutic use of art materials is good for anyone struggling with anxiety or stress. Working with an Art Therapist can untangle thoughts, re-imagine past patterns and create multiple ways to get unstuck. Instead of having to form thoughts through speech, we process through imagery, in a hands on manner.
![Photo of Nicole Ella Wenckowski, MEd, Registered Provisional Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abd44410-4ff3-4b9f-8e5f-ef30b25d289c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Ella Wenckowski
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MEd
Verified Verified
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist with experience working in corrections and community settings. I am a member of ATSA (Association for the Treatment and Prevention of Sexual Abuse) and work with clients who are facing legal issues around sexual offending as well as clients who are struggling with problematic sexual thoughts and behaviours. I can provide a non-judgemental space for those clients who need a safe place to seek help.
I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist with experience working in corrections and community settings. I am a member of ATSA (Association for the Treatment and Prevention of Sexual Abuse) and work with clients who are facing legal issues around sexual offending as well as clients who are struggling with problematic sexual thoughts and behaviours. I can provide a non-judgemental space for those clients who need a safe place to seek help.
See more therapy options for Fort Saskatchewan
Nearby Transgender Counsellors Searches for Fort Saskatchewan
See More Transgender CounsellorsNearby Searches for Fort Saskatchewan
- Beaumont
- Devon
- Edmonton
- Leduc
- Morinville
- Saint Albert
- Sherwood Park
- Spruce Grove
- St Albert
- Stony Plain
- Sturgeon County
- Westlock
Transgender Counsellors
As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?
A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.
What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?
Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.
How can I recognise a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?
An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognise a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?
Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.