I would ask what you are looking for to convince you that you are ready? Actually you should ask yourself that question.
You can start HRT and most if not all of the effects are reversible provided you stop in the first eight months or so.
The anti-androgens (spironolactone, aldatone, and finasteride) for example will reduce your sperm, testosterone, libido, cause testicular shrinkage, and the ability to have an effective erection fairly quickly but if withdrawn in the first eight months the effects will be reversed. Much beyond that point though and the effects are permanent resulting in chemical castration.
Likewise, estradiol will feminize you by softening your skin, start breast growth, along with loss of body hair. But if stopped within the first year these effects will reverse, though the breast growth may not completely reverse resulting in gynocomastia, though that can be surgically removed.
So basically, take the plunge and see how you feel during the first six months or so then decide.
If you discuss it openly and honestly with your therapist they would probably agree.
Also, do not self medicate. You can do your liver serious damage or expose yourself to blood clots if you medicate without proper blood tests. This must be given with the guidance of an endocrinologist.
I would add that you may never know to 100% certainty that you are doing the right thing. None of us can. But if you follow your instinct, you should be fine.
Best of luck!
-Sandy
