Question time

[Batmanlovr]

I've been searching around and I found a place that is a drop in center for transgender people, which is helpful cause they have free therapist's anyways my question is do I have to have my name and gender changed before I see them? I mean I have to wait for that cause you have to live in British Columbia for 3 months before you can change your name and I just recently moved her about a month ago. I don't think I can wait any longer to see a therapist, I am very depressed and would like to go see someone as soon as possible.

[Rachel]

I do not know the rules in BC. Perhaps giving them a call tomorrow and asking how the process worked would be beneficial.

[Tysilio]

I think it's really unlikely that any transgender support place would expect you to change your name and gender before you go there. One of the major missions of such places is to help people just like you, who are in the beginning stages of transition or trying to figure out what's right for them. It would pretty much defeat that purpose if you had to make up your mind before going.

They may not even care if you use your legal name; I've been to places that offered free therapy, and some of them were OK with giving them another name. The people who run such places understand that this is scary stuff for many of us, and being anonymous can be a big help when we're starting out.

You'd have to give your legal name if you were signing up at a regular clinic for therapy or medical services, but even there, any place you'd want to go should routinely ask you for your preferred name and pronouns. That's just basic courtesy.

[JoanneB]

I think it's really unlikely that any transgender support place would expect you to change your name and gender before you go there. One of the major missions of such places is to help people just like you, who are in the beginning stages of transition or trying to figure out what's right for them. It would pretty much defeat that purpose if you had to make up your mind before going.

This

I can't imagine a "Drop in Center" will want you 80% of the way through the process before letting you in. A name change is hard enough, gender I can imagine even more difficult in BC. That's a lot of hoops to jump through before being able to find support

[Batmanlovr]

Thank you guys, I was just wondering cause I can't get that all done first due to the 3 month period and I know I need to see someone  like NOW cause I just seem to be getting worse with my depression and dysphoria to the point my mom keeps asking me why I'm crying all the time and why I've been drinking lately.

[Tysilio]

Good for you for finding this place -- I know all too well how hard it is to do stuff like that when you're depressed. Now get yourself over there, and I bet you'll get a warm welcome!

[JoanneB]

I hesitated for way too long to even test drive a support group. My first ever time totally blew me away. By my third meeting I knew I needed to be there. I also realized there were at least 2 angels there to give me the help and support when I needed it the most. The group was instrumental in changing my life for the better.

It sounds like you're in a big city. If things do not click there, at the very least you'll be able to learn of other groups in the area for support.

[chance]

I'm looking for a group also but I hope to go to group or therapist before even deciding on a name change or anything.  I'm still that confused *lol* 


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[Qrachel]

Hi -

Don't wait to go to the drop-in center or to a therapist in practice, preferably familiar with trans matters.

I waited too long . . . talking to a professional is really important and the earlier the better.

Good luck and be sure to post often,

R

[Batmanlovr]

This drop in is just for Transgender/Transsexual people soo I know I will be going to the right place, my brother inlaw and sister are going to give me the money to travel on the ferry to the mainland so I can go see a therapist which makes me very happy.