Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Firstly Hello, I'm seeking guidance to begin HRT based in Corpus Christi.

I need to;

-Find a good reliable insurance that I can afford that will help cover the cost of HRT meds.
-Find a good reliable trans friendly doctor as close to Corpus Christi is I can get.
(Or, if you think it's important, then I can commute to Houston or Austin or San Antonio I suppose)
(Also Hopefully one that wont MAKE me see a therapist to begin)

I'm a young twenty something mtf who's lived full time without hormones for over a year now.
I'm don't have trans friends or parents with insurance to help me out, or even guide me into getting it.
So I'm doing this on my own and I have no idea what I'm doing, I'm basically looking for someone knowledgeable
to supply me with resources based on their experience to point me in the right direction.

Like literally maybe even TELL me like, Go Here and do this. Go here and buy that. I work a part time job and make like booty ass money so budgeting for me is important and doing what I can to save is important but ultimately I'll save and pay any price to be happy so yea.

idk help pls im sad 8^(

You might try the Amistad Community Health Center and see if you qualify for subsidized health care through their facility. Unless you get some kind of insurance subsidy, the cost of the premiums will probably far exceed the cost of the prescriptions. Hormones are pretty cheap, really. Blood tests aren't cheap, but again Amistad could help with that depending on your income.

If you've been living full time for a year, many therapists will take that into consideration and provide a recommendation letter in a short period. Many therapist don't require an office visit and can work over the phone or Skype so your not limited to your area; however, the Psychology Today website lists a number therapists in Corpus with transgender tags. Look for one that offers a sliding scale. Many will do a free consultation. Explain your financial situation and your real life experience. Try offering them 1/5 of their scale. You may be able to get said letter in as little as two paid sessions. With the letter of recommendation, the health center may be willing to administer the treatment.

I think you'll find this path cheaper and easier. At least it did for me. Good luck with it, and let us know how it goes.

All the best,
--AshleyP

Welcome to the site, a few weeks late.

I am no where near the south and unable to help you without simply using google. I hope one of our members can give you a hand.

I also want to share some links with you. They are mostly welcome information and the rules that govern the site. If you have not had a chance to look through them, please take a moment:

Site Terms of Service & Rules to Live By (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,2.0.html)	Standard Terms & Definitions (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,54369.0.html)	Post Ranks (including when you can upload an avatar) (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,114.0.html.)
Reputation rules (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,18960.0.html)	News posting & quoting guidelines (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,174951.0.html)	Photo, avatars, & signature images policy (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,59974.msg383866.html#msg383866)

Once again, welcome to Susan's. Look around, ask questions and join in.

With warmth,

Joanna

I am an FtM in a similar situation as Starlitluna,

My problem is I work in Afghanistan for the DoD and only come to the states twice a year for a month.  Home is Austin, TX.  I just want a doctor to prescribe me to Testosterone and start my HRT.  Due to my recent separation from the military (honorable), I no longer have a Primary Care Physician (VA appointments take months and they set me up with a Dr. in the Women's clinic).  Should I see a psychiatrist first?  How fast can a doctor start my HRT, after I receive a letter from the therapist?  Do I have to get blood tests monthly? Because I won't be able to from where I work and live. Please help!  ???

The Central Texas Transgender Society website lists a number of physicians and therapists in the Austin area as well as general info and calendars of interest.

Generally, you have more options when you've gotten a letter of recommendation from a counselor. Many times, a GP will prescribe. Generally, blood work is done prior or at the same time as treatment is started. Usually rechecked after three months. From there, it just depends on the doctor; sometimes it's another three month interval, sometimes it's a six month interval.

I think if you contacted a therapist and explained your situation and work schedule, they could work with you very quickly for a recommendation.

All the best,
--AshleyP

Thank you Ashley!!!!!