Fargo ND, Dr Alice Christianson - anyone know much?

[Erica]

I've discovered there is a therapist in my area with a focus in Transgender issues.  But I was curious if anyone has heard anything about her?  Or even better if someone is from this area and has spoken with her?

I've never done therapy.  So this is a big step, and one I'm a bit nervous about.  Local culture isn't exactly the most friendly to therapy in general.  I know my upbringing has left me more than a little tentative.  But I really need to try and learn about who I am for sure.  I'm sick of being depressed about it.  So..  Anyone heard anything?

Her name is Dr. Alice Christianson.   Based at the local Meritcare.

[HelenW]

Erica,

You could maybe ask the doctor for some references?  Some women that have successfully transitioned under her care?  It's a rare specialty so you may have no other choices except to see  her, travel a fair distance (140 mile round trip for me) or move to a city/town that has a bigger selection.

Also, the www has some good sites that cover the subject of choosing a TS specializing therapist, giving a list of good questions to ask, etc.  I'm not sure if Susan's has a link but it's worth checking out.

Going to your first therapy session IS a big step.  I went to my first last December and found that my anticipated fears were 10× worse than what I experienced.  It's a big first step but one of the easier ones, imho.  And something has to get the ball rolling! (No pun intended!)

Good luck, hang in there!
helen

[Erica]

Tommorrow is the day I'm going to call and try and get an appointment.   Assuming I get the chance to (Stupid office hours being the same as working hours!). 

How long before I manage to get in after that is hard to say, but hopefully soonish.  I am going back to undergrad school if I can't get a gradschool to accept me after the deadline.  So doing so under my work insurance is preferable to my parents' come August.  (Do things like that get sent to them?  I know reasons might not.  But I don't know if they get something that says when and where?  But that's not a big deal).

Either way, it's still something I hope I manage to keep the nerve up to do.  I have great insurance, so it will be quite affordable for the time being.