Gender Identity

Gender identity issues, sometimes called gender dysphoria or gender conflict, occur when an individual feels an inconsistency between their physical gender and the gender they truly feel or identify with. This most commonly exhibits itself as a physical discomfort with the gender one was assigned at birth, including the feeling of being in the wrong body. Children with gender dysphoria may express disgust of their own genitals or a certainty that they will grow up to be the opposite sex. Some individuals with gender identity issues treat this feeling by physically modifying their bodies to better match their gender identity. Gender dysphoria comes with it an increased risk for depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and bullying. If you are experiencing gender identity issues, reach out to one of TherapyDen’s qualified professionals today.

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At Syracuse University, I was on a special team of therapists and professors that provided therapy to transgender clients and their families--helping them explore their gender identity, transition, obtain hormone replacement therapy, name and gender changes, etc., as well as being a consistent source of support during what many describe as an isolating and challenging experience

— Sayuri (Julie) Heinl, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Arlington, VA

I have a deep personal and professional understanding of many gender identities, gender dysphoria, topics related to transition, and a multitude of other gender related topics. I support teens and adults who are questioning, just beginning their gender exploration, transitioning, decades into transition, and everything in-between.

— Kaleb Catricala, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Clifton Park, NY
 

As a nonbinary therapist I have considerable personal experience with feeling uncertain and confused in one's body. Perhaps you experience outright dysphoria. Perhaps you're feeling more of a vague feeling that something is wrong. Perhaps you feel ecstatic imagining yourself looking difference or being perceived and treated different by others. Perhaps you feel torn in multiple directions and feel confused. Whatever your experience, I can help guide you to greater self understanding.

— Phillip Coulson, Therapist in Seattle, WA

Pressure to conform to social norms can be overwhelming and interfere with living. A person cannot possibly be living their best life if they are detached from their authentic self or feel trapped by traditional gender norms . I have worked with people who identify all along the gender spectrum from curious and questioning to fully transitioned. Supporting and helping them find their authenticity is one of the most rewarding parts of my professional work.

— Jeanine Moreland, Clinical Psychologist in Chicago, IL
 

I have professional experience serving and advocating for the trans community. As a queer cis woman, I am a proud trans ally. My therapeutic approach is rooted in helping you to better get in touch with your own wisdom, intuition and boundaries to help you find and accept your identity. Whether you are queer or straight, cis or trans, I help my clients creatively and curiously explore their gender and sexual orientation with confidence, support, and non-judgement.

— Kayla Freeman, Social Worker in Austin, TX

Exploring your gender identity and expression can be a complex process. Forming excellent supportive relationships with family, friends, and partners is essential. I specialize in helping you have those hard conversations to better those relationships to get the support you need.

— Katherine Traxler-LaFrance, Marriage and Family Therapist Associate in Humble, TX
 

I work with individuals who are trans, non-binary, gender fluid, genderqueer, two spirit, etc.

— Lauren Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA

I have spent the whole of my undergraduate and graduate career advocating for and promoting gender-identity advocacy and treatment. Even among mental health professionals, transgender competency lags behind. I am proud to serve the transgender and gender-questioning community.

— Sara Mercier-Kennedy - Accepting new clients!, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate
 

I have worked extensively with gender-diverse clients throughout my career. As a non-binary counselor, I know exactly what it can feel like when you experience gender euphoria for the first time. In the safety of the counseling space, I love helping clients think of the ways they want to experiment with different expressions and affirming activities to learn what works for them. I also share information and resources my clients can use if they want to seek HRT services.

— Braden Weinmann, Licensed Professional Counselor in ,

I love working with folx who are exploring gender identity. Exploring gender roles and how they sit with you is something that I do with all of my clients. I have been trained in gender affirming care and I am happy to provide supportive documentation needed for social or medical transition, and strive to minimize challenges related to navigating the gatekeeping inherent in insurance and medical systems.

— Marjorie Boggs Vazquez, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
 

Forming understanding of gender, social transition, assessment and letter writing for transgender confirmation medical procedures, gender dysphoria.

— Jacqueline Hynes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Princeton, TX

I am a non-binary trans person. I have worked with people in all stages of transition and with the personal growth needed to move into your best true self. I believe that the gender spectrum is unlimited, and there are no boxes into which anyone must fit. I respect the journey, the pronouns, and the questions that come along with discovering and validating your identity.

— Alyxx Berg, Licensed Mental Health Counselor
 

I take an approach embracing a positive and wholehearted view of all gender and sexual identities and relationships. I treat all clients and their families with dignity, respect and the affirmation they deserve. Your sexual orientation and gender identity or expression may or may not be source of distress for you. You may find that having a qualified mental health professional who has familiarity, experience and desire to work with issues you face as a member of the LGBTQ community helpful to you achieving your desired outcomes. Having access to an unbiased and supportive resource can make a big difference on your journey to authentic living. For individuals within the LGBTQ community, I provide a safe, supportive and positive space to explore feelings and issues related to all stages and seasons of life including: Identity Development Stress Management Self–Esteem Concerns Coming Out Processes Interpersonal Relationships Coping with Perfectionism Social Concerns Gender Identity

— Allison Glorioso, Mental Health Counselor in Fort Myers, FL

Helping folks be who they are. Medical letter writing for gender affirming surgery, specialized couples support for couples with gender questioning, coming out, and transition events. Cisgender Spouses Group for supportive spouses of transgender partners. Couples group both beginners, and advanced ongoing drop in for Spouses Group members/partners. My family and friends are of the LGBTQ rainbow. Effective research based Gottman Method couples counseling when needed.

— Shannon Batts, Licensed Professional Counselor
 

I have spent the last four years working in private practice with children, teenagers and adults working through their gender identity whether this is starting the process of changing their name, beginning hormone therapy, or working through the changes happening in the individual’s body. This is a part of my experience I’m excited to continue working with as I have continued to grow and enhance my understanding of the trans population and the challenges they face.

— Dan Escobar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX

In addition to my educational knowledge, my personal experience dealing with my own gender identity is what has informed both my passion and my ability to help others navigate this sensitive, difficult, and deeply personal issue.

— Nathan Schuyler, Social Worker in Chicago, IL
 

More than half of my clients identify as *trans. I have been a member of WPATH off and on for over a decade. I was in on the ground floor training of their Global Education Initiative. Identity is a right, not a privilege. You should get to be supported for who you are.

— Michelle Wexelblat MSW Counseling, Clinical Social Worker

I provide gender care services through my practice. I am trans, non-binary and gender queer affirming. I provide letters for gender confirmation surgery as well as HRT letters. As your therapist it is not my role to gatekeep your body by making you jump through all of these impossible hoops in order for you to receive the care that you need. I trust you and I trust that you know what is best for your body. I am here to support you as you navigate your way through your journey.

— Aydrelle Collins, Counselor in Dallas, TX