Therapists

[Shige]

hey everyone! it's been a while since i've been on here

anyway, here's my question: is there a certain type of therapist (psycologist, psycotherapist, etc.) you have to go to to be diagnosed with a gender identity disorder, and eventually given the ok to go on T? also, must it be a gender therapist?

thanks!

[perfectisolation]

Sorry I have no info, but I'd really like to know this too... can a regular therapist dx you with GID? are they qualified to do that?

[NicholeW.]

One with an acceptable license and certification. Most of "us" recommend gender specialists because we seem to think they may be more experienced and need less leading. That tends to be true. But therapist presenting the licenses required by the operating surgeon is able to do the letters and have them be accepted.

The SOC can be helpful, but not all surgeons abide strictly by the SOC so check the websites of the surgeons if you can and see what they require.

Nichole

[Chamillion]

yeah i would def recommend going to a gender specialist. not only are they more qualified to diagnose you, but they also are more likely to be able to help you with your transition, like knowing who to go to for surgery, etc. you can find a list of people that specialize with gender issues and their locations online

[J.T.]

my regular therapist told me herself she wasn't qualified to help me with tranisitioning and she helped me find a gender therapist.  A really freaking good one.

No, it doesn't have to be a gender specialist but they need to be versed in the standards of care.

[Mister]

Doesn't need to be a certain kind, no.

There are some surgeons who may require a letter from someone Ph.D. level, but that is becoming increasingly rare.

[Shige]

thanks guys! you've all been really helpful

[Kate Thomas]

https://www.susans.org/Medical/Therapists_and_Counselors/USA/California/
you might be intrested in this links page
the therapist page is a work in progress so if any one has a favorite therapist  to add or one needing updated contact information please PM me with the info or email linksstaff@susans.org

[Andrew]

It usually depends on who your physician will take a letter from. Find the doctor that's going to prescribe you the hormones and ask them to make a few recommendations.