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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Meet the specialists

 

I have experience helping clients to navigate their gender identity, with a focus on Non-binary and Gender Non-conforming identities.

— Stephen Kendall, Licensed Professional Counselor in New York, NY

While working with the San Francisco Department of Public Health, I specialized in supporting gender-expansive clients. I provided individual psychotherapy to clients who were exploring their gender identity & expression, & considering & often pursuing medical aspects of gender transition such as hormone therapy, hair removal & gender affirming therapies. I provided WPATH letters for surgery & often supported clients in preparing for surgery & recovery.

— Lily Krutel, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Portland, OR
 

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

— Nathan Schuyler, Social Worker in Tinley Park, IL

We are put into boxes by the world around us beginning at birth. But when the boxes don't fit, trying to squeeze into them can be excruciating. Gender expansiveness can feel scary, especially in today's political climate. I support intuitive, curious adults who want to explore their gender and find joy in sharing their authentic self with the world. Together, we can help you to become your truest, most beautiful self.

— Rachel Friendly, Clinical Psychologist in Fairfax, VA
 

I welcome all gender identities and those looking to explore, accept or understand feelings related to gender identity.

— Meghan Arroyo, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA

I have worked with and treated many transgender and non-binary clients. Everything from giving them resources so they could start hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to writing letters so they could have gender affirming surgery; I've been with clients every step of the way on their journey to becoming their authentic selves.

— Anthony Boyd, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Burbank, CA
 

As a therapist, I have supported many clients in exploring their gender identity, finding ways to affirm their unique identity and support them through medical gender affirmation if desired. I provide surgical assessments if needed/wanted, support with name changes and other aspects of affirming one's identity. I believe in an informed consent model of care and work to affirm and validate your needs. I have also trained many medical and mental health providers in gender-affirming care.

— Melanie Cohn-Hopwood, Clinical Social Worker in Cambridge, MA

“Being trans means I made myself and the world didn’t make me. I defy some of the most powerful cultural institutions in the world.” https://glaad.org/ilovebeingtransbc/ I partner with folks in understanding, accepting, expressing, and asserting their gender. I see gender as an infinite spectrum, and gender alignment/transition as a nonlinear process unique to each person.

— Aerin Riegelsberger, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA
 

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

— Nathan Schuyler, Social Worker in Tinley Park, IL

Being transgender and non-binary, I have a special place in my heart for working with others who are similarly struggling with shedding the gendered expectations and norms imposed on them to find their own unique gender identity and way of expressing it in the world. I am particularly interested in helping such individuals free themselves from the impacts of the traumas woven into this experience and relinquishing the hold of addictive or other behaviors that interfere with their true self.

— Mackenzie Steiner, Psychologist 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 Tinley Park, IL

In addition receiving training through the Transgender Training Institute, I hold a certificate in Sex Therapy & Sexuality Education from the UM Sexual Health Certificate Program (SHCP). I am also a member of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT).

— Kelsey Lamm Rottmuller, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
 

I provide support and therapy for those who are exploring their gender identity.

— Larry Green, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Gainesville, FL

You are so stressed by questions about your gender identity and gender expression. The gender dysphoria hits you at the core, often leading to depression and anxiety. You are fed up with correcting people when they mis-gender you or use your “dead name". I am a queer, trans-affirming therapist who can help you navigate this cisgender society that often excludes you. I work from a model of Informed Consent, helping you make the best decisions about your own body.

— Lisabeth Wotherspoon, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Rochester, NH
 

As an experienced LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, I provide compassionate and affirming therapy for LGBTQ+ individuals and their family members who seek a safe, non-judgmental space to explore identity issues, process coming out experiences, and build resilience in the face of adversity.

— Linda K. Reeves, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist

At any given time in the four years I have been practicing, about two-thirds of my clients are people who do not identify as cisgender. I have participated in conferences and professional symposia related to this population, including Gender Spectrum and Translife, and regularly communicate and collaborate with other professionals who work with transgender, nonbinary, and intersex people.

— Cole Rennix, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Redding, CA
 

I work to help you create a positive gender identity, whether you are questioning this identity, or gaining self-esteem and community, I have been working with and supporting positive gender identity throughout my time as a marriage and family therapist. I have attended many continued education courses in this field and this was also my focus of study throughout my schooling. I will continue to work to learn more in order to best serve you in your gender identity journey.

— Lindsay Callahan, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO

I provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their gender identity. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding gender. I utilize a variety of practices to help clients navigate their unique journeys, offering personalized strategies and support through successes and challenges.

— Tracy Tippett, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wilton Manor, FL
 

I have worked closely with several trans students going through the public school system and navigating that system and their rights within it.

— Caitlin Lyons, Clinical Social Worker in , TX