LCSW, PsyD, or MD?

[E-Brennan]

A little confused about therapy and who can provide what.  Does anyone have any information on whether it's "better" to use a social worker, a psychologist, or a psychiatrist for gender therapy, or does it not really matter?  Is it more about the connection between patient and therapist?

Locally, I have a licensed clinical social worker, a couple of psychiatrists, and that's it.  The LCSW looks like she might be the best one for me in terms of what her areas of expertise are.

[mrs izzy]

A little confused about therapy and who can provide what.  Does anyone have any information on whether it's "better" to use a social worker, a psychologist, or a psychiatrist for gender therapy, or does it not really matter?  Is it more about the connection between patient and therapist?

Locally, I have a licensed clinical social worker, a couple of psychiatrists, and that's it.  The LCSW looks like she might be the best one for me in terms of what her areas of expertise are.

It comes down to who on that list understands and applies the WPATH standards of care should give you what is needed. But if you can get a pcsychiatrist or Md they can write a script and might cut out the endo? They need to know and understand what GID is.
Lots of luck and do your homework or ask when you make the contacts.

Izzy

[Jamie D]

Part of the issue of therapy becomes, depending on your location, and who you plan to get SRS from (if that is your goal), you may need a letter of recommendation from a PhD psychologist or an MD psychiatrist.

New guidelines suggest the decision to commence cross-hormone therapy lays primarily with the transitioner, rather than the "gatekeeper."

[JillSter]

A book I'm reading lays out the criteria for an ideal gender therapist, as:

1) A licensed or certified mental health professional
2) with a knowledge base in human development, human sexuality, and/or transgender mental health care,
3) experience in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD,
4) an open mind about the diversity of gender experience,
5) comfort with "cross dressing" and other forms of gender expression,
6) a willingness to learn more about the transition process, and seek supervision or consultation with a Senior Gender Specialist if necessary,
7) a collaborative approach to treatment planning,
8) a willingness to consult with and educate family members, schools, or employers if the need arises,
9) experience writing letters of referral, and
10) access to information about endocrinologists, surgeons, and other professionals and services as needed.

Hope this helps.