Transgender Therapists in Stratford, ON
![Photo of Hannah Sampson-Aitkenhead, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3dd36ec-2e77-41fc-a5a3-abd073599584/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah Sampson-Aitkenhead
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stratford, ON N5A
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. I'm passionate about creating a welcoming environment for individuals, families, and couples, and work with children aged 7+. I address topics such as anxiety, depression, addiction behaviours, burnout, and familial conflicts. My priority is to provide a safe and open space for clients to be able to process emotions and concerns in a manner that is custom-built and comfortable for their needs.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. I'm passionate about creating a welcoming environment for individuals, families, and couples, and work with children aged 7+. I address topics such as anxiety, depression, addiction behaviours, burnout, and familial conflicts. My priority is to provide a safe and open space for clients to be able to process emotions and concerns in a manner that is custom-built and comfortable for their needs.
![Photo of Eric Evans, RP, BMus, CTP, Dipl, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c57fef5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Eric Evans
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BMus, CTP, Dipl
Verified Verified
Stratford, ON N5A
Waitlist for new clients
At the moment I am unable to take any new clients. The psychotherapy I provide goes well beyond the simple ways we often think about ourselves: depressed, anxious, traumatized etc. These are useful labels but for each person there is a whole lifetime leading up to those ideas. You can think about them alone, but talking with the safety and care that I provide makes all the difference. Psychotherapy is about how you talk to me, what you say, when you say it and the confidentiality creates a space where we can bring all the ways you may be with me to awareness.
At the moment I am unable to take any new clients. The psychotherapy I provide goes well beyond the simple ways we often think about ourselves: depressed, anxious, traumatized etc. These are useful labels but for each person there is a whole lifetime leading up to those ideas. You can think about them alone, but talking with the safety and care that I provide makes all the difference. Psychotherapy is about how you talk to me, what you say, when you say it and the confidentiality creates a space where we can bring all the ways you may be with me to awareness.
![Photo of Leah Valian - Leah Valian, Certified Sex Therapist,Couple Health, MSW, RSW, CST, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d01ffed-e107-489b-98ac-e282b43c176c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Leah Valian, Certified Sex Therapist,Couple Health
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CST
Verified Verified
Stratford, ON N5A (Online Only)
We are fucked up around the topic of sexuality. This limits our connection and desire. Did you lack positive role models to mentor you with displays of affection and healthy conflict management? I am committed to helping you to find balance, peace & pleasure. DESIRE discrepancy is our speciality. This is a most misunderstood and painful issue that leaves partners feeling broken and undesired. There is a lot more to this issue, especially in heterosexual relationships so let's explore it. Let proper Sex Ed replace the many myths about relationship and sexuality that limit us. Let's get unfucked up.
We are fucked up around the topic of sexuality. This limits our connection and desire. Did you lack positive role models to mentor you with displays of affection and healthy conflict management? I am committed to helping you to find balance, peace & pleasure. DESIRE discrepancy is our speciality. This is a most misunderstood and painful issue that leaves partners feeling broken and undesired. There is a lot more to this issue, especially in heterosexual relationships so let's explore it. Let proper Sex Ed replace the many myths about relationship and sexuality that limit us. Let's get unfucked up.
![Photo of Jen Jennings, RP, MA, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69f37af2-55f7-478c-ae36-2ce52bbf524b/2/320x400.png)
Hello! My name is Jen (they/she). I am a Registered Psychotherapist and have been in private practice since 2016. I help people learn about themselves, gain perspective, and build skills that work for them. I strive to make clients feel safe and supported. My office is a place where clients can process information, try coping strategies, and express themselves either in person or virtually. My practice is informed in trauma, consensual non-monogamy, disability justice, and religious trauma. As well as queer, gender, and neurodivergent affirming.
Hello! My name is Jen (they/she). I am a Registered Psychotherapist and have been in private practice since 2016. I help people learn about themselves, gain perspective, and build skills that work for them. I strive to make clients feel safe and supported. My office is a place where clients can process information, try coping strategies, and express themselves either in person or virtually. My practice is informed in trauma, consensual non-monogamy, disability justice, and religious trauma. As well as queer, gender, and neurodivergent affirming.
![Photo of Lisa Pierrette Cloutier, RSWMSW, BA, SSW, CR, RMT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11978aa7-4a72-492b-b89d-f939575cb7c3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Pierrette Cloutier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSWMSW, BA, SSW, CR, RMT
Verified Verified
Stratford, ON N5A
I believe you are your best healer as I am my best healer. At times in our lives we become challenged, stuck, maybe even frozen and we need support through compassionate, safe, confidential and trusting care. We need a witness, a coach, a listening presence in addition to acquiring new skills and a compassionate understanding relationship with ourselves and therefore one another. It is possible to move through your challenges and pain together, so you can live your best life freely, peacefully, lovingly and joyfully. If you are willing and ready begin by taking this step and call.
I believe you are your best healer as I am my best healer. At times in our lives we become challenged, stuck, maybe even frozen and we need support through compassionate, safe, confidential and trusting care. We need a witness, a coach, a listening presence in addition to acquiring new skills and a compassionate understanding relationship with ourselves and therefore one another. It is possible to move through your challenges and pain together, so you can live your best life freely, peacefully, lovingly and joyfully. If you are willing and ready begin by taking this step and call.
![Photo of Adrienne Vale, MSW, RSW, CYW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1166f343-feba-4500-b1a9-6443f6cdd1de/2/320x400.jpeg)
I extend a warm invitation to you, to a nurturing space where healing unfolds naturally. If you're seeking support for your child, your family, or yourself in times of difficulty, know that you've found a haven where safety, understanding, and gentle guidance live. Let's embark on this journey together, creating a home for emotional well-being to move you through this challenge.
I extend a warm invitation to you, to a nurturing space where healing unfolds naturally. If you're seeking support for your child, your family, or yourself in times of difficulty, know that you've found a haven where safety, understanding, and gentle guidance live. Let's embark on this journey together, creating a home for emotional well-being to move you through this challenge.
![Photo of Shasta MacDermid, MA, RP-Q, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a78a8d6b-b2a0-468b-a49f-fe0fbc891f16/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shasta MacDermid
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP-Q
Verified Verified
Stratford, ON N4Z (Online Only)
I am hoping to connect with adolescents and adults who are in need of mental health support in areas such as trauma, behavioural challenges, and have difficulty maintaining relationships. With your personal strengths and inner wisdom as our guide we will work together to attain your goals.
I am hoping to connect with adolescents and adults who are in need of mental health support in areas such as trauma, behavioural challenges, and have difficulty maintaining relationships. With your personal strengths and inner wisdom as our guide we will work together to attain your goals.
![Photo of Krista McCorkindale, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14477ca0-4dce-44ca-bcbd-5b372368337c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Krista McCorkindale
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stratford, ON N5A
You are tired of feeling stressed, anxious, depressed or pulled down by grief. You are looking for a warm, safe and supportive therapist with skills to help you to begin unraveling the hard stuff. You want to feel empowered to use strategies to cope with challenges from the past or ones that you are currently facing. Your ultimate goal is to feel less burdened with difficult thoughts and feelings so that you can be more present and engaged in your life and relationships.
You are tired of feeling stressed, anxious, depressed or pulled down by grief. You are looking for a warm, safe and supportive therapist with skills to help you to begin unraveling the hard stuff. You want to feel empowered to use strategies to cope with challenges from the past or ones that you are currently facing. Your ultimate goal is to feel less burdened with difficult thoughts and feelings so that you can be more present and engaged in your life and relationships.
![Photo of Jenna Mitchell, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fdb107a-e6e0-49c8-b792-2f648147c07c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Mitchell
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stratford, ON N5A (Online Only)
Do the words "highly sensitive" resonate with you? Do you feel misunderstood by others in your life? Feel that the world is too busy or too overwhelming for your system? As a highly sensitive soul myself- I get it! I support highly sensitive and neurodivergent young adults who struggle with anxiety, people-pleasing, perfectionism, finding self-compassion and navigating the day to day as a highly sensitive person. Let’s work together to find your voice and walk towards authenticity. A life where you feel empowered in your sensitivity, worth and values. A life where there is intentional space for calm, confidence and self-compassion.
Do the words "highly sensitive" resonate with you? Do you feel misunderstood by others in your life? Feel that the world is too busy or too overwhelming for your system? As a highly sensitive soul myself- I get it! I support highly sensitive and neurodivergent young adults who struggle with anxiety, people-pleasing, perfectionism, finding self-compassion and navigating the day to day as a highly sensitive person. Let’s work together to find your voice and walk towards authenticity. A life where you feel empowered in your sensitivity, worth and values. A life where there is intentional space for calm, confidence and self-compassion.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Nada Slager, MACP, CCC, RP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c57e937-3749-456a-a705-b4e86f3ec775/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that the relationship between a counsellor and a client is deeply personal and collaborative so finding the ‘right-fit’ is pivotal to successful therapy; a strong therapeutic relationship is essential in creating an environment that fosters change and personal growth. I practice with a variety of clinical skills to support extensive variety of client issues; however, I am passionate in supporting my clients in areas of stress, grief, anxiety and depression. I use techniques from various therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
I believe that the relationship between a counsellor and a client is deeply personal and collaborative so finding the ‘right-fit’ is pivotal to successful therapy; a strong therapeutic relationship is essential in creating an environment that fosters change and personal growth. I practice with a variety of clinical skills to support extensive variety of client issues; however, I am passionate in supporting my clients in areas of stress, grief, anxiety and depression. I use techniques from various therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Tynan Rhea Bramberger - Tynan Rhea, Sex & Relationship Therapist, RP, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7780ba70-5747-4d6f-9ffc-63b43caca345/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tynan Rhea, Sex & Relationship Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4K (Online Only)
Whether that is within queer relationships, transgender identities, sensory overwhelm during sex, or exploring their asexuality.
AWAY until SEPT 2ND 2024 > I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the CRPO (008887). I take a non-pathologizing, non-judgmental, holistic approach to sex counselling and sex therapy. I provide sex therapy and sex counselling for individuals or within relationship counselling or couples therapy that incorporates an understanding of how our sexuality is shaped by the relationship between the mind, body, spirit, and larger society. I believe there are limitless ways to live a pleasurable life when practiced in a compassionate, caring, consensual environment with or without sex.
Whether that is within queer relationships, transgender identities, sensory overwhelm during sex, or exploring their asexuality.
AWAY until SEPT 2ND 2024 > I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the CRPO (008887). I take a non-pathologizing, non-judgmental, holistic approach to sex counselling and sex therapy. I provide sex therapy and sex counselling for individuals or within relationship counselling or couples therapy that incorporates an understanding of how our sexuality is shaped by the relationship between the mind, body, spirit, and larger society. I believe there are limitless ways to live a pleasurable life when practiced in a compassionate, caring, consensual environment with or without sex.
![Photo of Christina Belcastro - Virtual LGBTQ+ Therapy, Rainbow Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d8f2cd1-c9f9-4add-bb8a-a2e1e86cfc21/1/320x400.jpeg)
Virtual LGBTQ+ Therapy, Rainbow Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N5Y (Online Only)
Are you, your relationship or family looking for a therapist with lived experience & knowledge of 2SLGBTQ identities? We are a completely virtual 2SLGBTQ+ Affirming Clinic and support folks all over Ontario, Canada. We value anti-oppressive and trauma informed approaches to counselling. Our therapists understand the importance of bridging the gap in accessible mental health care for queer and transgender folks. Our therapists specialize in topics including: Autism, ADHD, Neurodivergent, Non-Monogamy, Polyamory, Healing Trauma, CPTSD, Relational Wounds, Betrayal, Exploring Sexuality & Gender.
Are you, your relationship or family looking for a therapist with lived experience & knowledge of 2SLGBTQ identities? We are a completely virtual 2SLGBTQ+ Affirming Clinic and support folks all over Ontario, Canada. We value anti-oppressive and trauma informed approaches to counselling. Our therapists understand the importance of bridging the gap in accessible mental health care for queer and transgender folks. Our therapists specialize in topics including: Autism, ADHD, Neurodivergent, Non-Monogamy, Polyamory, Healing Trauma, CPTSD, Relational Wounds, Betrayal, Exploring Sexuality & Gender.
![Photo of Gavynn McKay, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d48af3a7-a4f2-4559-acd3-b9521545df03/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gavynn McKay
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2C (Online Only)
Pronouns: he/him or they/them. Reaching out can be difficult, but I am glad to see that you did. I am queer, transgender, autistic, and have ADHD. These intersecting identities shape my experiences and influence my therapy approach. I work with clients from Ontario and Saskatchewan. I aim to create a comfortable space for you to navigate your thoughts and emotions. As someone who has accessed mental health services, I know how important it is to feel heard by your therapist. Because of this, I work with you to ensure you are feeling effectively supported and comfortable. Social media: Tik Tok and Instagram: rainbowgalaxyocunselling
Pronouns: he/him or they/them. Reaching out can be difficult, but I am glad to see that you did. I am queer, transgender, autistic, and have ADHD. These intersecting identities shape my experiences and influence my therapy approach. I work with clients from Ontario and Saskatchewan. I aim to create a comfortable space for you to navigate your thoughts and emotions. As someone who has accessed mental health services, I know how important it is to feel heard by your therapist. Because of this, I work with you to ensure you are feeling effectively supported and comfortable. Social media: Tik Tok and Instagram: rainbowgalaxyocunselling
![Photo of Jake Farr, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d782c3bc-def1-43ab-a7b4-905fc560c42a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in transgender care.
My philosophy is, you are not broken, you are not something to be fixed! There is something you are wanting to change. That is the focus of what we can work on together. All individuals seeking assistance to navigate their life's journey are welcomed. I listen to what your needs are, help provide you with tools to find a path to break down barriers that are keeping you from living your best life. I believe a counsellor and a client must be able to establish a trusting relationship to make the most of the time spent together. I offer structured/non structured therapies depending on the needs of the clients.
I specialize in transgender care.
My philosophy is, you are not broken, you are not something to be fixed! There is something you are wanting to change. That is the focus of what we can work on together. All individuals seeking assistance to navigate their life's journey are welcomed. I listen to what your needs are, help provide you with tools to find a path to break down barriers that are keeping you from living your best life. I believe a counsellor and a client must be able to establish a trusting relationship to make the most of the time spent together. I offer structured/non structured therapies depending on the needs of the clients.
![Photo of Jennifer Lane, MACP, RP, CPT, FNS, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72cfccbb-8bdb-4f6e-841e-f0110d97da9a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Lane
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, CPT, FNS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9K
I work primarily with the queer community, and specifically with transgender folks navigating their identity and the transition process.
Life can be difficult - we all go through struggles as we navigate the ups and downs of our experience. This can be further complicated when we're a member of a minority or marginalized group. As a queer woman myself, I am passionate about working with other queer individuals to help them explore and discover who they are, and how they want to express themselves in the world. Whether you're struggling with your sexuality, gender identity, depression, anxiety, or just having a hard time managing stress and life changes - I'm here to help!
I work primarily with the queer community, and specifically with transgender folks navigating their identity and the transition process.
Life can be difficult - we all go through struggles as we navigate the ups and downs of our experience. This can be further complicated when we're a member of a minority or marginalized group. As a queer woman myself, I am passionate about working with other queer individuals to help them explore and discover who they are, and how they want to express themselves in the world. Whether you're struggling with your sexuality, gender identity, depression, anxiety, or just having a hard time managing stress and life changes - I'm here to help!
![Photo of Theresa Fraser - Changing Steps Child and Family Counselling , RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34044bd6-3d09-4832-b5f0-91dcc8acc56f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Changing Steps Child and Family Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Beamsville, ON L0R
If you are struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression, gender dysphoria, or ADHD please contact us. Virtually, we can help you identify meaningful goals and an action plan to meet your goals.
If you are struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression, gender dysphoria, or ADHD please contact us. Virtually, we can help you identify meaningful goals and an action plan to meet your goals.
![Photo of Amy O'Leary, MSW, RSW, BA, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa1f5123-44df-49ed-8a76-98be7990713d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy O'Leary
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4Y (Online Only)
If you're concerned about finances or affording therapy, I can offer sliding scale rates for members of the transgender community.
New intakes and clients are currently paused. As a therapist, I treat adults seeking support with their sexual orientation or gender identity, along with the challenges of coming out. I also treat symptoms such as anxiety, and depression, or are seeking assistance in family conflicts. As a member of the WPATH, I can offer letters for adults seeking gender-affirming care services that require a therapist's letter. Lastly, those who come to see me want to look deep into themselves, and set goals to parse through their internal judgments to see how our negative experiences with others and society have impacted our own self-esteem.
If you're concerned about finances or affording therapy, I can offer sliding scale rates for members of the transgender community.
New intakes and clients are currently paused. As a therapist, I treat adults seeking support with their sexual orientation or gender identity, along with the challenges of coming out. I also treat symptoms such as anxiety, and depression, or are seeking assistance in family conflicts. As a member of the WPATH, I can offer letters for adults seeking gender-affirming care services that require a therapist's letter. Lastly, those who come to see me want to look deep into themselves, and set goals to parse through their internal judgments to see how our negative experiences with others and society have impacted our own self-esteem.
![Photo of Sawyer Johnson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6149319-7b44-4659-87d8-f1232a5311c5/1/320x400.png)
Sawyer Johnson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6J (Online Only)
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it means to be a part of the queer and trans community? Hi! My name is Sawyer and I use they/them pronouns. I’m a queer, transgender, non-binary registered social worker, and therapist working with Positive Space Consulting. I’m looking to connect deeply with the queer and trans community in a relational and curious way. I hold a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Social Work from the Univesity of Calgary.
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it means to be a part of the queer and trans community? Hi! My name is Sawyer and I use they/them pronouns. I’m a queer, transgender, non-binary registered social worker, and therapist working with Positive Space Consulting. I’m looking to connect deeply with the queer and trans community in a relational and curious way. I hold a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Social Work from the Univesity of Calgary.
![Photo of Phe Wong - Inner Flux Counselling Services - Phe Wong, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4661311d-8d39-4750-aaad-5aa3247d2529/1/320x400.jpeg)
Inner Flux Counselling Services - Phe Wong
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
London, ON N6L (Online Only)
Be You! Hello, I'm Phe (fee), a Queer, Chinese-Canadian Psychotherapist here to advocate alongside of you. You can count on me to provide a safe, accepting, and affirming space. Together, we can work on exploration and formation of: sexual identity, gender identity, ethnic/racial identity. I'm here to help when it comes to: LGBTQ2SA+ issues, questioning identity, minority stress, racial trauma, "coming out", confidence and self-esteem, trauma, shame and guilt, anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, and pre/post transition support.
Be You! Hello, I'm Phe (fee), a Queer, Chinese-Canadian Psychotherapist here to advocate alongside of you. You can count on me to provide a safe, accepting, and affirming space. Together, we can work on exploration and formation of: sexual identity, gender identity, ethnic/racial identity. I'm here to help when it comes to: LGBTQ2SA+ issues, questioning identity, minority stress, racial trauma, "coming out", confidence and self-esteem, trauma, shame and guilt, anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, and pre/post transition support.
![Photo of Carey Lawford, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7027b8bf-ef9c-4f38-acea-ed467c9dba27/1/320x400.jpeg)
I follow the World Professional Association of Transgender Health Standards of Care.
I am a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with over a decade of experience providing assessment and psychotherapeutic services. I have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from the University of Manitoba and a Master of Social Work from the University of Toronto (MSW). In addition to my independent practice, I have a clinical role at a large mental health teaching hospital. I hold Adjunct Lecturer Status in the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work at the University of Toronto. My practice is an affirming space for diverse communities, including gender and sexually diverse (LGBTQ) clients and allies.
I follow the World Professional Association of Transgender Health Standards of Care.
I am a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with over a decade of experience providing assessment and psychotherapeutic services. I have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from the University of Manitoba and a Master of Social Work from the University of Toronto (MSW). In addition to my independent practice, I have a clinical role at a large mental health teaching hospital. I hold Adjunct Lecturer Status in the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work at the University of Toronto. My practice is an affirming space for diverse communities, including gender and sexually diverse (LGBTQ) clients and allies.
See more therapy options for Stratford
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.