Where does one start?

[zahkaryuh]

Where should one start when you are unsure what is right for you?  How far can one go before theres no going back, or can you go back at anytime?  At one point I was sure that I wanted to transition, then I had an experience with a therapist who may or may not have known what she was talking about, and feel totally lost. Some days I feel fine and don't much notice my mismatched body. Other times every second is brutal. Generally, my life is going well, I am getting on well with my family, my career is fantastic, and I am in a healthy relationship with a great guy. But always there is a fog hanging over me. I am afraid that I might be manipulated again by a therapist with a political agenda. I want to know whats right for me, not whats right for conservatives or for liberals. I am a person, not the topic for a case study.

[DriftingCrow]

My answer is probably very unhelpful:

Just take your time and really try to evaluate what's a priority in your life and what your true needs are, and try to notice what triggers your dysphoria and if it's been getting worse/more consistent over time. (Perhaps making a "dysphoria calendar" would be helpful?). Try to strengthen your mind so you're able to spot people who's trying to manipulate you easier and pre-plan how you're going to deal with people like this. Ask for recommendations for good therapists who specialize in gender issues from trans people, if there's none in your area there's a few good ones who do appointments on-line.

I find meditation really helpful at easing my mind, dealing with all sorts of issues, and finding out what I really need.

Good luck and try to enjoy the journey you're on.

[zahkaryuh]

Thank you, and no, not a totally useless response lol.  Any idea where to find recommendations for good gender therapists?

[Jill E]

I found mine on Psychology Today's website. They dont have a clear search filter for Gender Therapy. However, i refined by searching 'transsexual issues'. From there I read up on each and every therapist, until i found one i liked. Goggle will probably work just as well though.

[DriftingCrow]

I've heard GREAT things about Dr. Carol Clark, who does on-line appointments.

You can also ask people and read old posts in the "Therapy" section of this website. https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/board,52.0.html Carol Clark is listed in the stickied topic called "Listing of Online Gender Therapists".