I finally had my session a couple weeks ago at my local lgbt clinic and was referred to a therapist. I'm a bit nervous about how it will go and what questions she'll ask. I'm also a bit worried how many sessions it will take and the cost might build up. I think my insurance will cover most though. How long does it usually take to get a diagnosis confirmed?
~Lucas
Relax! The first question she asks will likely be "What brings you here?", or something to that effect. Just relax and answer honestly.
There is no answer to how long therapy takes. That is really up to you. If your own mind is clear, it can be just a couple of hours to confirm that you meet the standard criteria for a diagnosis. If there are multiple layers in your mind that have to be unpacked and examined, it can take longer.
If you have financial concerns, let her know that early in the process.
Awesome news and as Kathy says, relax. The process will be what it is in the end, but this is a great step that will help you set some good goals for your beginnings. Likely, your first session will be focused on your introduction and time for your therapist to settle their first impressions. Remember, they are there for you so it is good to remember that ultimately, you are in control of your journey and they are a great asset.
I know that sometimes the beginning of our transition feels like a race to get things rolling along. One day, you will awaken to realize that you have set your groundwork and you are progressing and your are essentially a teen. Keep in mind that these first steps will only be walked once, enjoy them for their uniqueness in your life!
Yes, thank you so much for the advice. Between that and having my first session I have a better feel about what to talk about next time and how I want to proceed. Also, it turns out the sessions are free so I'm not worried about that anymore.
Hi,
I'm Laurie and well I remember my first therapy session. I too was apprehensive about it and found out that it was nothing more than talking honestly with the therapist about myself. Something I do fairly well. All the subsequent sessions have focused on issues I was currently dealing with form my difficulty with self acceptance, rejection and hurt from my only living child and the loss that entailed to my thoughts of suicide over my problems. The key to any therapist helping you is your honesty with them. If they don't have the correct story they have a hard time helping you with the issues that bring you there.
I'm glad you are feeling more comfortable with them now that the ice is broken. Do let your therapist help you as much as they can.
Hugs,
Laurie
That's great to hear, Lucas! I'm glad you had a positive session, reading the stickies and such has me all apprehensive now, too. But I believe in this therapist, and feel blessed to have one recommended specifically for transgender issues.
But for me, I think that's more going to be having another living human being 'seeing' me and knowing what I am inside or at least what I'm trying to be. I don't have any friends in real life- I work 2 jobs and spend about 2-5 hours a night in girl-mode.
I kinda feel like i'm just gonna 'spill my guts' or rather (more lady-like) 'pour my heart' out to her.
Is that how it happened for you?
Eryn, sorry for the late reply. I was going to have a session last week but had to cancel, rescheduled for tomorrow. I wouldn't say spilling my guts but I know what I want to talk about to keep things moving. I'm just going to keep seeing her for the next couple months.
I already have an appointment a couple months out set to check back in with the lgbt clinic. Hopefully, so I can get testosterone prescribed.
Have you been in girl mode in public or just at home?
~ Lucas
At my first couple sessions we just talked like we had been friends forever. No direction and no focus on any particular subject. My first session ended up being almost 3 hrs of chat.
Since then we have done a 15 minute anything talk to start and then more in-depth. Currently she is running the sessions from the start for my assessment letter. Surprisingly she kept notes even from our open no topic talks and these are guiding the current sessions. You do need to be honest about your thoughts and feelings, you will gain so much more overall. It doesn't have to come out all at once, you get to do it your way and the counselor should respect that.
You will know very quickly if you have a match in a counselor and if you click with them that much better.
If you have financial concerns by all means talk to your counselor, mine has given me a reduced rate and I pay extra when I have it available. It has allowed me to go every two weeks which has been great for my mind.
I've been to 3 therapists in my lifetime and two were great and one my wife and I almost literally ran away from after a couples session.
Good luck and stay positive
Thanks everyone, I had my second session Monday. My therapist wrote the letter and it should be at the clinic for my appointment. I don't have to go back there anymore unless I need support or have questions.
I agree the best thing is to relax as these therapists are professionals. Be as open and honest with them as to what you are looking for in your journey and in these sessions. The therapist will be able to answer them and should be able to relax you somewhat as well.