Gender Identity

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.

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.

Using a strengths-based affirming approach informed by an education in Gender Identity Development, I help my clients to form their own conceptualization of gender and feel comfortable with its fluidity. No matter the age or stage of identity development, I create a space where clients feel safe to be their most authentic selves. I work with my clients to advocate for access to any necessary resources and help connect them to a larger community of love and support.

I currently spend part of my time working in a multidisciplinary Gender Health program where individuals can seek medical transition as well as have mental health therapy.

I am married to a post-transition trans man whom I regularly accompany to to trans conferences, meetings, and events. I also have professional experience providing individual, couple, family, and group services to trans individuals and their families, both binary and non-binary. I have experience writing letters for gender affirming hormone therapy and surgery.

If you’re trans, queer, or still trying to find yourself, we can work together on your journey.

Have you found that your inner experience of gender does not match the gender role imposed on you by society? This mismatch can be deeply uncomfortable and confusing. I guide individuals across the spectrum of gender through a journey of self-discovery. We will work together, at your own pace, to create a path towards living a fulfilling, authentic life on your own terms.

I am not an expert on this or any LGBTQ issues. What I can say is that I care deeply about getting less ignorant, more informed & sensitive, & I'm devoted to ongoing education. I encourage & invite clients to call me in when I mess up, or fall short, which I will. What I can offer is, as a queer, trans & nonbinary therapist, I can be a “safe-r” support who, at least somewhat "gets" it, & needs less education & translation of your experience.

I have worked with folks in the trans community for many years, and have met people at various stages in their transition. I am happy to provide required letters for gender-affirming care when needed to the trans folks I work with. My goal is to help you feel more comfortable in your identity, with a sense of acceptance and care that I hope you are able to take with you into your other relationships.

Exploring the influence of the gender binary, gender roles, how various cultures view gender differently, gender markers, correct pronouns, having discussions around gender identity with loved ones, friends, or co-workers. There are a lot of issues that can come with exploring gender identity. I recognize that there are many sides to this concept and work with my clients to provide them a safe space to explore issues connected to gender, regardless of how they identify.

Gender is often defined as a social construct of norms, behaviors and roles that varies between societies and over time. Gender is often categorized as male, female or nonbinary. Gender identity is one's own internal sense of self and their gender, whether that is man, woman, neither or both. Every member of our team at TheraPride is an LGBTQ ally and affirming.

Navigating gender can be overwhelming and scary, and also incredibly exciting! Whatever comes up for you while we are exploring this aspect of your identity, I am here to hold space for it.

As a non-binary person, I understand the confusion and complication around gender in today's society. Being a non-binary therapist and exploring my own gender and learning the system, I can be here to help you learn your own gender, as well as all the confusing and different terms that are available to us when learning about our own identity.

Navigating the complexities of gender identity and sexual orientation can be a profound journey. I provide a safe, affirming space where you can explore your authentic self. I follow World Professional Association for Transgender Health 8 standards of care and can provide gender affirming letters for HRT, surgery, etc. I am passionate about trans rights and have many people in my life who are trans. You are safe with me.

The gender binary excludes so many of us and can leave us feeling confused, alone, and like we're not enough. We'll explore your gender journey together in an accepting and nonjudgmental space, and honor and celebrate your most authentic expression of yourself.

“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. Let's cultivate trans joy.

With personal lived experience and professional expertise, I specialize in gender-affirming care. I completed a Clinical Internship at the Gender Identity Center in 2018 and have since provided support in diverse settings, including inpatient mental health for teens and adults, and clinics offering play therapy for children. I also educate providers on creating affirming and inclusive practices to foster culturally relevant care.

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).

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