Not Sure How to Go About This

[jaredskyes4493]

Hey y'all,

So I know I need to see a therapist because I know that as uncomfortable it may feel, it will be better for me in the long run. I'm just really confused on how to go about it. I'm not sure what kind of therapist to look for or how much it would cost to see one. I also am unsure weather or not I want to tell anyone that I'm seeing one. I haven't come out to anyone and I don't really plan to until i figure myself out a little more. Anyone have any advice on choosing the right therapist?

Sorry if there was a similar post to this one, I'm still trying to get used to this site and i think the search thingy hates me >.<

[Cindy]

It would help to know what country you are in.

You need a Gender Therapist, preferably an experienced one who is familiar with the WPATH SOC.

Cost? Depends on the country and if in the USA maybe the State.

[jaredskyes4493]

I live in the US, California. Palm Springs to be exact.

[FTMax]

I used this listing to find out some options:

http://www.lauras-playground.com/gender_therapists.htm

There are tons of online options nowadays, and the listing for California on there is also quite extensive. I'm not terribly familiar with California's cities and general geography, so I'm not sure which would be closest to you. There is one on there for Palm Springs.

As far as picking a good one if you have more than one option: Read their website. Read their 'About Me' section. Get a feel for them as people without being sold on them as therapists. Then go read other people's reviews, and put it all together. Also consider what kind of sessions you'd get the most out of. I know for me, I hate talking about myself and it's simply easier to have sessions online. There are a lot of other people that feel the exact opposite and strongly prefer/need to have in-person sessions.

And if you choose one and feel like it's not working for you, don't be afraid to abandon ship and find someone new. There are plenty of qualified professionals out there.

[Madison Bennett]

Try your local GLBT Center.  That's how I found mine.  If they don't have a therapist there, they can probably refer you to one.

As for choosing the right one, you'll know when you find them.  I trust mine a lot, after only three sessions.  She also asks me questions that I never thought to ask myself.  I'd say there's a certain chemistry and trust between us, that I also have with my other therapist.  Watch for that chemistry.  And give each hopeful a few tries before judging them.  Good luck!

[jaredskyes4493]

Thank you everyone for all your help and support! It's been pretty rough trying to find a starting point, but you all have made it that much easier

[jasellebelle]

I am searching for one also. Good luck!