Psychological services for transgender, gender-diverse and gender questioning individuals
In my work as a psychologist I am committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community. I offer a safe and affirming space for individuals where gender diversity forms part of their experience. This includes those who are directly seeking support regarding understanding themselves and pursuing transition, those encountering challenges through their transition process, and also those who wish to see an affirming therapist for other concerns in their life.
I am aware of the challenges that come with navigating gender identity and transition, and I provide compassionate and informed support. I work particularly with transgender people who are disabled, neurodivergent or experiencing illness, and am conscious of how gender identity can intersect with other forms of marginalised identity such as race, economic status and health.
“Transgender” is used here as a short-hand term for ease to refer to anyone whose gender identity differs from that assigned at birth including those who are questioning their identity and/or do not use a label.
My experience
Since 2018, I have been working therapeutically with transgender clients. As a cisgender therapist, I have benefited greatly from receiving training and supervision from transgender therapists through the organisation Gendered Intelligence, a leading UK charity with expertise in transgender and gender non-conforming identities. I seek to maintain my current knowledge in the field through my own ongoing study and supervision.
What is affirmative therapy
Affirmative therapy for transgender clients is underpinned by the idea that we should believe transgender people when they share how they understand themselves. Transgender identities are valid and to be transgender is not inherently more or less valued than any other form of gender identity, although transphobia is a cause of suffering. The therapist aims to not impose assumptions or biases on the client about how they should understand themselves, how they choose to express their identity or if they choose to pursue transition-related actions or not.
As a psychologist my role is not to tell you what your gender identity is or is not; this is a personal process and for some this changes over time. I can share with you what has been helpful for other clients and provide a space where you can explore your own experience without judgment.
Many clients coming to therapy are neurodivergent and have a history of trauma. These areas can be explored sensitively where they are relevant, and it will not be assumed that these are the “cause” of someone’s identity.
Affirmative therapy is often mischaracterised as a form of therapy that cannot involve exploration of identity or being challenged. My experience is that many individuals want to explore their identity and different ways of understanding themselves, but that this must be done sensitively and with the individual’s consent.
Not everyone’s journey with their gender identity is linear. Some may identify in different ways at different points in their life and have experiences that may not fit with a typical “narrative” of being transgender. No end goal is assumed and a supportive space is offered regardless of identity, label used or steps you choose to take or not.
What can therapy involve
In our sessions, I am to build a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship where you feel heard and understood. I draw upon evidence-based approaches, adapting them to your unique circumstances. My therapeutic approach is tailored to each individual's specific needs and goals. Sessions may include exploration, education and building of coping skills. We can work together on a range of issues, including:
Gender identity exploration: Providing a supportive environment to explore your gender identity, feelings, and experiences without judgment.
Transition-related support: Addressing the emotional, social, and psychological aspects of medical and social transition, including navigating coming out, family dynamics, and societal expectations.
Mental health concerns: Offering support for common mental health challenges that are common for transgender individuals, such as anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma.
Body image and self-esteem: Working towards a positive relationship with your body and fostering self-acceptance.
Relationship and sexuality Issues: Addressing challenges in intimate relationships, friendships, and family connections.
Coping with discrimination and prejudice: Developing coping mechanisms and resilience in the face of societal stigma and discrimination.
Internalised transphobia: Exploring and challenging negative beliefs and feelings about being transgender.
Grief and loss: Processing any feelings of loss associated with transition or past experiences.
Building resilience and self-advocacy: Empowering you to navigate the world with confidence, access community and advocate for your needs.
Services I do not provide
Please be aware that I do not offer diagnostic assessments for gender dysphoria. Conducting these assessments requires the doctor or psychologist to be part of a specialist register of approved clinicians, which I am not. However, I am able to provide support and guidance for individuals who are considering this process and can help connect you with appropriately qualified professionals who can conduct these assessments.
I also do not provide psychological assessments necessary to access gender-affirmative medical treatment such as surgery or hormones for the above reasons. I have written supporting letters for clients known to me, and it is at the discretion of the doctor providing the gender affirming treatment if they will accept these as a “second letter”.
Gender Marker Letters
I can provide a Gender Marker Letter which is an official document provided by a healthcare professional that confirms your gender identity and the intention to live in your affirmed gender permanently. This letter is often required when updating your gender on legal documents such as passport, driver’s licence, and other forms of identification. I am able to write these letters in the course of therapy for current clients and can complete them for new clients following a one-off consultation.
Confidentiality
Please be assured that our sessions are confidential. The only exceptions to this are in circumstances where there is a direct risk of harm to yourself or others; should this arise, it will be discussed with you openly. I will always seek your explicit consent before liaising with your GP, and I will not disclose any details about your gender identity unless you specifically wish me to do so. For some clients, involving their GP can be helpful, particularly when seeking referrals to NHS gender services, and I am happy to support you with this if you choose.
Getting Started
If you are a transgender individual seeking psychological support, I encourage you to reach out for a free initial consultation. This is an opportunity for us to discuss your needs, answer any questions you may have, and determine if my services are a good fit for you.