Finding a therapist?

[lostandconfused]

Where do you find therapists? I would just pick off that list on the wiki, but the problem is that I have to be able to visit behind my dad's back (my mom is bringing me) so I won't be able to travel very far. 

[Michelle.]

Are you living in the US?

If so have you heard of HIPPA?

Healthcare Info Patient Privacy Act.

You as the patient have to sign a release form for any medical professional allowing them to release your information. Thats to any family members and other doctors.

Any info collected and passed on for studies or gov stat reporting has to delete personal information.

So if you fear your father finding out, I hope the above helps to alleviate your concerns.

Most sex and GID therapists I've looked into also practice/trear other areas of mental health care.

Also you might want to look into seeing a psycharatrist...their the ones who can prescribe medication to patients.

Hope the above helps.

Mich'

[Renate]

One list of therapists is right here on this site:

Therapists and Counselors

Starting with a therapist is the best way. Good luck.

[Suzy]

The first thing you must do to find a good counselor is to be prepared to walk out and not come back.  There are good ones and not-so-good ones out there.  I have no idea where you are for sure, but if there is any kind of TG community around there, start with asking around.  I find that is a good way to get the real story on therapists, and how I decided on mine.  If you can't ask others, use the net and look at their qualifications and areas of expertise.  Finally, call them and talk to them before you book an appointment if at all possible.

One final word, don't misunderstand what I am saying.  Don't just find someone who tells you what you want to hear.  Else, the therapy is a big waste of time and money.   But look for someone who will be brutally honest and whose words have the ring of truth to them.

Best of luck!
Kristi

[jilledwards]

Kristi is right about not wasting time on therapist who aren't qualified.   I went thru a couple before I found one that was right for me.

A therapist that specializes or regularly works with other transfolk will save you time and money in the long run because they are quicker at identifying the main concerns. They will usually also be able to refer you to a local doctor to start hrt which also makes life a little easier.

Is there a local LGBT organization in your area? Or an online transgender support group for your state? These can be good places for finding therapists with the right qualifications for your issues. 

[nathan]

Is there an LGBT-centric organization in your area?  They may be able to point you in the right direction. It's how I found mine.

[lostandconfused]

The first thing you must do to find a good counselor is to be prepared to walk out and not come back.  There are good ones and not-so-good ones out there. 
Best of luck!
Kristi

Unfortunately, I learned that the hard way. The last (and first) therapist I went to wanted to hypnotize me out of being TG.

Is there an LGBT-centric organization in your area?  They may be able to point you in the right direction. It's how I found mine.

Not in my local area, but there are some in downtown LA  .

By the way, I live in Rosemead, so if anyone happens to live there...