Transgender Therapists in Waterdown, ON

Photo of Jen Doyle - Lotus Counselling Services, Jen Doyle , BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Lotus Counselling Services, Jen Doyle
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Waterdown, ON L0R
With over 15 years of experience in mental health, Jen has developed the ability to support her clients through transitions and challenges that often lead to stress and overwhelm. Jen is an outgoing and positive person with a natural empathy towards her therapy clients. Her personality and experience intersect to create a therapeutic space that cultivates safety, understanding and a foundation for change. Jen will support you to reconnect with the inner strength to overcome life’s challenges while cultivating wellness, purpose, and joy.
With over 15 years of experience in mental health, Jen has developed the ability to support her clients through transitions and challenges that often lead to stress and overwhelm. Jen is an outgoing and positive person with a natural empathy towards her therapy clients. Her personality and experience intersect to create a therapeutic space that cultivates safety, understanding and a foundation for change. Jen will support you to reconnect with the inner strength to overcome life’s challenges while cultivating wellness, purpose, and joy.
(548) 490-0363 View (548) 490-0363
Photo of Jarred McCall, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jarred McCall
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waterdown, ON L0R
We all experience our very own challenges in life. We don’t have to navigate them alone.
We all experience our very own challenges in life. We don’t have to navigate them alone.
(289) 768-7854 View (289) 768-7854
Photo of Grace Ross, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Grace Ross
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterdown, ON L0R
We all experience times in life when we feel overwhelmed, anxious or in grief. Life's challenges can sometimes take a toll on our sense of well-being. When anxiety, fear, grief or relationship difficulties arise you may feel even more vulnerable. Therapy offers an opportunity to explore your feelings, uncover insights and develop greater self-awareness and compassion. Together we can create new coping skills that will support you and your loved ones during these exceptional times.
We all experience times in life when we feel overwhelmed, anxious or in grief. Life's challenges can sometimes take a toll on our sense of well-being. When anxiety, fear, grief or relationship difficulties arise you may feel even more vulnerable. Therapy offers an opportunity to explore your feelings, uncover insights and develop greater self-awareness and compassion. Together we can create new coping skills that will support you and your loved ones during these exceptional times.
(365) 800-5603 View (365) 800-5603
Photo of Sarah Servos, RP, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Sarah Servos
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd
Verified Verified
Waterdown, ON L0R
Hello! Let me introduce myself. My name is Sarah Servos and I am a Registered Psychotherapist with offices in Burlington and Campbellville (15 minutes from Milton, Guelph and Waterdown), in addition to teletherapy. In my practice I welcome adults, teens and children. My approach to doing therapy is integrative, meaning I draw upon various therapeutic modalities depending upon your needs, including CBT, psychodynamic, ACT and mindfulness approaches. My goal is to create a non-judgmental, empathetic and safe space where we can explore the issues you bring to therapy and where we can work together to achieve your goals.
Hello! Let me introduce myself. My name is Sarah Servos and I am a Registered Psychotherapist with offices in Burlington and Campbellville (15 minutes from Milton, Guelph and Waterdown), in addition to teletherapy. In my practice I welcome adults, teens and children. My approach to doing therapy is integrative, meaning I draw upon various therapeutic modalities depending upon your needs, including CBT, psychodynamic, ACT and mindfulness approaches. My goal is to create a non-judgmental, empathetic and safe space where we can explore the issues you bring to therapy and where we can work together to achieve your goals.
(833) 459-7405 View (833) 459-7405
Photo of Samantha Burns | Marriage And Couples Counselling | Trauma Therapy, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Samantha Burns | Marriage And Couples Counselling | Trauma Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterdown, ON L0R
Are you navigating the aftermath of toxic relationships or trying to heal from past traumas? Maybe you are noticing unhealthy patterns? Are you saying sorry too much, feel like its unfair, and don't know how to stop? This can cause low self-esteem, hard time trusting others, and people-pleasing. The overthinking, feeling on edge, anxiousness, can be exhausting. Together, let's explore and process your experiences, develop healthier relationship patterns, and help you regain a sense of inner peace. Let's work on what is bothering you. You no longer have to keep it in or deal with it alone.
Are you navigating the aftermath of toxic relationships or trying to heal from past traumas? Maybe you are noticing unhealthy patterns? Are you saying sorry too much, feel like its unfair, and don't know how to stop? This can cause low self-esteem, hard time trusting others, and people-pleasing. The overthinking, feeling on edge, anxiousness, can be exhausting. Together, let's explore and process your experiences, develop healthier relationship patterns, and help you regain a sense of inner peace. Let's work on what is bothering you. You no longer have to keep it in or deal with it alone.
(289) 367-5114 View (289) 367-5114
Photo of Nicole Versluis, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Nicole Versluis
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Waterdown, ON L0R
Are you feeling overwhelmed by trauma, adhd, anxiety, or depression? Having difficulty with focus and attention? I offer compassionate, expert support to those facing life's challenges, along with veterans, first responders, and police/RCMP officers. I understand your unique pressures and challenges and am here to help. My practice supports those with trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, ADHD (including inattentiveness and hyperactivity), stress, burnout, and family conflicts. You don’t have to face these struggles alone. Reach out today for a safe, supportive environment to heal and grow.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by trauma, adhd, anxiety, or depression? Having difficulty with focus and attention? I offer compassionate, expert support to those facing life's challenges, along with veterans, first responders, and police/RCMP officers. I understand your unique pressures and challenges and am here to help. My practice supports those with trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, ADHD (including inattentiveness and hyperactivity), stress, burnout, and family conflicts. You don’t have to face these struggles alone. Reach out today for a safe, supportive environment to heal and grow.
(204) 500-3086 View (204) 500-3086

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of James Sullivan, BMus, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
James Sullivan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BMus, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
I aim to help clients gain a deeper understanding of self, starting with their own relationship with their self. Striding towards self acceptance, while working through challenges brought on by , self-esteem, sexuality, gender, anxiety, neurodivergence, depression and much more. Self-exploration often comes with discomfort, as your guide I will walk alongside you on your journey. I am a firm believer that each client is the expert in their own life, and encourage independence, confidence, self-care in all aspects of life. While my clients often reflect similarities in my own identity, I work with clients from all backgrounds.
I aim to help clients gain a deeper understanding of self, starting with their own relationship with their self. Striding towards self acceptance, while working through challenges brought on by , self-esteem, sexuality, gender, anxiety, neurodivergence, depression and much more. Self-exploration often comes with discomfort, as your guide I will walk alongside you on your journey. I am a firm believer that each client is the expert in their own life, and encourage independence, confidence, self-care in all aspects of life. While my clients often reflect similarities in my own identity, I work with clients from all backgrounds.
(437) 500-6423 View (437) 500-6423
Photo of Jim Meunier, Counsellor
Jim Meunier
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Jim and I love working with people who are neurodivergent, trans, non-binary, queer (including kink/BDSM, non-monogamous, and asexual) and/or survivors of religious or political trauma. I'm also all those things! My website is www.oldpine.ca and it has lots more information (and free resources and recommendations!)
Hello! My name is Jim and I love working with people who are neurodivergent, trans, non-binary, queer (including kink/BDSM, non-monogamous, and asexual) and/or survivors of religious or political trauma. I'm also all those things! My website is www.oldpine.ca and it has lots more information (and free resources and recommendations!)
(289) 203-0847 View (289) 203-0847
Photo of Sam MacDonald - Anxiety | Relationships | Self Esteem Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Anxiety | Relationships | Self Esteem Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
Accepting New Clients! Having been in counselling myself, I know what a relief it is to find someone with whom you feel comfortable to help sort out some of the stressors and troubles of everyday life. Whether you’re dealing with a multitude of issues, feeling overwhelmed by a significant event, or anything in between, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to transform your struggles into stepping stones, leading you towards a peaceful and empowered life. No challenge is too big or too small – I’m dedicated to helping you find your way and ensuring you no longer feel held back by your troubles.
Accepting New Clients! Having been in counselling myself, I know what a relief it is to find someone with whom you feel comfortable to help sort out some of the stressors and troubles of everyday life. Whether you’re dealing with a multitude of issues, feeling overwhelmed by a significant event, or anything in between, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to transform your struggles into stepping stones, leading you towards a peaceful and empowered life. No challenge is too big or too small – I’m dedicated to helping you find your way and ensuring you no longer feel held back by your troubles.
(647) 558-9722 View (647) 558-9722
Photo of Meg Walsh, BFA, CTP, Dip Can, Pre-Licensed Professional
Meg Walsh
Pre-Licensed Professional, BFA, CTP, Dip Can
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
Therapy is a process of supported inquiry. Something remarkable happens when we are listened to deeply, when we speak openly to someone with psychological insight. The more understanding we have of ourselves and our feelings, the more choice and fulfillment becomes available to us. Therapy is powerful work, it can help us shift from coping with life's challenges to feeling more fully alive, attuned in your relationships; daily life becomes marked by less struggle, and a greater capacity to relate meaningfully. My role is to assist you in the art of living, to create new possibilities for resilience, connection, and well-being.
Therapy is a process of supported inquiry. Something remarkable happens when we are listened to deeply, when we speak openly to someone with psychological insight. The more understanding we have of ourselves and our feelings, the more choice and fulfillment becomes available to us. Therapy is powerful work, it can help us shift from coping with life's challenges to feeling more fully alive, attuned in your relationships; daily life becomes marked by less struggle, and a greater capacity to relate meaningfully. My role is to assist you in the art of living, to create new possibilities for resilience, connection, and well-being.
View
Photo of Madeleine Serhal, BSc, MC, Registered Psychotherapist
Madeleine Serhal
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
Hey there - my name is Maddie (she/they) and I’m a Lebanese Canadian offering support to children and youth 10+, students, and young adults experiencing anxieties, school and life stressors, ADHD, relationship challenges, identity exploration, people pleasing, perfectionism, depression, grief, liberation, and the overall pressures of being a human. We will explore topics of self-awareness, attachment, emotions, thoughts, behaviours, protective patterns and narrative themes; relationship with our true selves, communities, nature; power dynamics and the impact of systems we live in; and many more mental health topics.
Hey there - my name is Maddie (she/they) and I’m a Lebanese Canadian offering support to children and youth 10+, students, and young adults experiencing anxieties, school and life stressors, ADHD, relationship challenges, identity exploration, people pleasing, perfectionism, depression, grief, liberation, and the overall pressures of being a human. We will explore topics of self-awareness, attachment, emotions, thoughts, behaviours, protective patterns and narrative themes; relationship with our true selves, communities, nature; power dynamics and the impact of systems we live in; and many more mental health topics.
(289) 236-2545 View (289) 236-2545
Photo of Nadine Furbacher At Willow Rock Wellness, RP, MACP, BBA, Registered Psychotherapist
Nadine Furbacher At Willow Rock Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, BBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beamsville, ON L0R  (Online Only)
SENSITIVE - OVERTHINKER – OVERDOER – OVERGIVER: Do you find yourself suffering with emotional burdens, burnout, worry or moods SO HEAVY you have trouble clearing your mind? Is it hard to express what you need or just to SAY NO? Does HELPING leave you unable to do what you enjoy because your cup has NOTHING LEFT IN IT FOR YOU? Whether it's emptiness, feeling trapped, not knowing Your True Self or blowing up at the drop of a hat – this suffering finds you zoning out on your phone; with food; deep in relationship drama; binge watching; overworking; over scheduling – whatever numbs the harsh feelings you avoid at all cost.
SENSITIVE - OVERTHINKER – OVERDOER – OVERGIVER: Do you find yourself suffering with emotional burdens, burnout, worry or moods SO HEAVY you have trouble clearing your mind? Is it hard to express what you need or just to SAY NO? Does HELPING leave you unable to do what you enjoy because your cup has NOTHING LEFT IN IT FOR YOU? Whether it's emptiness, feeling trapped, not knowing Your True Self or blowing up at the drop of a hat – this suffering finds you zoning out on your phone; with food; deep in relationship drama; binge watching; overworking; over scheduling – whatever numbs the harsh feelings you avoid at all cost.
(289) 210-4938 View (289) 210-4938
Photo of Victoria Nyman - Anxiety | Self Esteem | Relationship Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Anxiety | Self Esteem | Relationship Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! As someone who has been to counselling myself, I understand how comforting it is to have a supportive person to talk to about anxiety and life's challenges. Whether you're facing a variety of problems, feeling swamped by a big life event, or anything else, I'm here to offer help. We can partner up to help you overcome your struggles, to guide you towards a life where you no-longer feel constricted by what you're going through. I'm a solution-focused therapist, meaning I will work to get you to a place where you no-longer require therapy.
Accepting New Clients! As someone who has been to counselling myself, I understand how comforting it is to have a supportive person to talk to about anxiety and life's challenges. Whether you're facing a variety of problems, feeling swamped by a big life event, or anything else, I'm here to offer help. We can partner up to help you overcome your struggles, to guide you towards a life where you no-longer feel constricted by what you're going through. I'm a solution-focused therapist, meaning I will work to get you to a place where you no-longer require therapy.
(343) 338-5374 View (343) 338-5374
Photo of Tasha Lafortune, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Tasha Lafortune
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by self-doubt, racing thoughts, or intense emotions? You’re not alone. Whether you're navigating life as a neurodiverse individual, exploring your identity within the LGBTQ+ community, or simply seeking to build greater self-awareness, I’m here to support you. Together, we’ll uncover the tools and strategies that work best for you, helping you regain control and find fulfillment. With compassion and expertise, we can navigate these challenges and celebrate your unique journey. Let’s work together to create a more balanced, joyful, and authentic life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by self-doubt, racing thoughts, or intense emotions? You’re not alone. Whether you're navigating life as a neurodiverse individual, exploring your identity within the LGBTQ+ community, or simply seeking to build greater self-awareness, I’m here to support you. Together, we’ll uncover the tools and strategies that work best for you, helping you regain control and find fulfillment. With compassion and expertise, we can navigate these challenges and celebrate your unique journey. Let’s work together to create a more balanced, joyful, and authentic life.
(437) 432-1007 View (437) 432-1007
Photo of Katey Wattam, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Katey Wattam
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
Welcome! As a queer therapist and artist, I’m guided by my mixed English, Irish, Franco-Ontarian, and Anishinaabe ancestry. I would be honoured to walk with you on your journey, offering a supportive, open, and empathetic environment for exploring your experiences and inherent wisdom. My practice is trauma-informed, strengths-based, and client-centered. Whether you're navigating overwhelming emotions, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief, substance use, or mood disorders, my commitment is to create a compassionate and safe space for untangling these challenges.
Welcome! As a queer therapist and artist, I’m guided by my mixed English, Irish, Franco-Ontarian, and Anishinaabe ancestry. I would be honoured to walk with you on your journey, offering a supportive, open, and empathetic environment for exploring your experiences and inherent wisdom. My practice is trauma-informed, strengths-based, and client-centered. Whether you're navigating overwhelming emotions, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief, substance use, or mood disorders, my commitment is to create a compassionate and safe space for untangling these challenges.
(647) 694-9125 View (647) 694-9125
Photo of Talisa Haskins - The Journey Counselling and Psychotherapy- Virtual, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
The Journey Counselling and Psychotherapy- Virtual
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
Life is so hard right now. Balancing the never ending to do list, worrying about finances, and trying to find time to take care of yourself feels impossible. When you are struggling to manage the day to day, thinking about improving your mental health can feel daunting. If you have been struggling with depressive thoughts and hopeless or crippling worry for a long time, the current state of the world certainly is not helping. If you are tired of carrying the weight of the world, while also trying to figure out what how to move forward, you've found the right place. Therapy can help you rediscover yourself, and cultivate hope.
Life is so hard right now. Balancing the never ending to do list, worrying about finances, and trying to find time to take care of yourself feels impossible. When you are struggling to manage the day to day, thinking about improving your mental health can feel daunting. If you have been struggling with depressive thoughts and hopeless or crippling worry for a long time, the current state of the world certainly is not helping. If you are tired of carrying the weight of the world, while also trying to figure out what how to move forward, you've found the right place. Therapy can help you rediscover yourself, and cultivate hope.
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Photo of Carol Ann Brayley, MSW, RSW, SEP, Registered Social Worker
Carol Ann Brayley
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, SEP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
Are you looking for something different? Do you have persistent concerns that you would like to shift without taking years to get there? I am a neurodivergent somatic experiencing therapist who offers a variety of approaches that can be absolutely life changing for anxiety, depression, trauma, misophonia, sensory sensitivities, chronic pain, brain injury, digestive issues, and more. Wonderful for those dealing with brain injuries, ADHD, autism spectrum related concerns, brain injury, autoimmune disorders, learning disabilities, long covid, auditory processing disorder, speech and language difficulties, selective mutism, etc...
Are you looking for something different? Do you have persistent concerns that you would like to shift without taking years to get there? I am a neurodivergent somatic experiencing therapist who offers a variety of approaches that can be absolutely life changing for anxiety, depression, trauma, misophonia, sensory sensitivities, chronic pain, brain injury, digestive issues, and more. Wonderful for those dealing with brain injuries, ADHD, autism spectrum related concerns, brain injury, autoimmune disorders, learning disabilities, long covid, auditory processing disorder, speech and language difficulties, selective mutism, etc...
(905) 581-1038 View (905) 581-1038
Photo of Christy Schaefer, BA, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Christy Schaefer
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beamsville, ON L0R
Accepting New Clients. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or feeling overwhelmed? Sometimes it can all feel like too much, and it's difficult to see the way forward. Perhaps you are experiencing issues in your relationships, having difficulties managing your emotions or daily stressors. Maybe there are deeper issues - grief, trauma, questioning your purpose or identity- that keep you up at night and prevent you from fully enjoying life. Perhaps you're unsure what's bothering you, but you know that something isn't quite right, and you would like to feel more like yourself again.
Accepting New Clients. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or feeling overwhelmed? Sometimes it can all feel like too much, and it's difficult to see the way forward. Perhaps you are experiencing issues in your relationships, having difficulties managing your emotions or daily stressors. Maybe there are deeper issues - grief, trauma, questioning your purpose or identity- that keep you up at night and prevent you from fully enjoying life. Perhaps you're unsure what's bothering you, but you know that something isn't quite right, and you would like to feel more like yourself again.
(289) 276-7384 View (289) 276-7384
Photo of Dan Bevan-Baker, MA, MTA, BMus, Registered Psychotherapist
Dan Bevan-Baker
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MTA, BMus
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
Stepping into therapy can be evocative. It invites us to delve into our inner world and befriend parts of ourselves who we discover - often the hurt, hidden, and hopeful. I join you for this journey as your guide and am committed to embodying collaboration, warmth, playfulness, curiosity, and compassion. In our space we will safely weave together your stories, explore meaningful insights, and experiment with new ways of being, feeling, and relating. My approach to care is rooted in anti-oppressive, intersectional, and trauma-informed frameworks. I also bring years of experience as a queer musician and music therapist into my work.
Stepping into therapy can be evocative. It invites us to delve into our inner world and befriend parts of ourselves who we discover - often the hurt, hidden, and hopeful. I join you for this journey as your guide and am committed to embodying collaboration, warmth, playfulness, curiosity, and compassion. In our space we will safely weave together your stories, explore meaningful insights, and experiment with new ways of being, feeling, and relating. My approach to care is rooted in anti-oppressive, intersectional, and trauma-informed frameworks. I also bring years of experience as a queer musician and music therapist into my work.
(289) 273-7986 View (289) 273-7986
Photo of Donna L Hepburn, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Donna L Hepburn
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithville, ON L0R
Now accepting clients in person and on-line. Evening and weekend appointments available. It takes courage to reach out and ask for help, and more importantly to find someone who you can connect with. Feelings of stress, anger, resentment, sadness and fear can feel overwhelming. You don't have to struggle alone. I will meet you where you are and together we will figure out where you want to be and how to get there. As a experienced therapist with over twenty years working in the mental health field, I'm confident working collaboratively we can overcome various challenges you are experiencing.
Now accepting clients in person and on-line. Evening and weekend appointments available. It takes courage to reach out and ask for help, and more importantly to find someone who you can connect with. Feelings of stress, anger, resentment, sadness and fear can feel overwhelming. You don't have to struggle alone. I will meet you where you are and together we will figure out where you want to be and how to get there. As a experienced therapist with over twenty years working in the mental health field, I'm confident working collaboratively we can overcome various challenges you are experiencing.
(289) 301-9069 View (289) 301-9069

See more therapy options for Waterdown

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.