Susan's Place Transgender Resources

So my church sent me to a LDS (Latter-Day Saint, or Mormon) therapist who works for the church. I expected it to be a huge waste of time. I expected to be told that I was engaging in immoral activities and that I should try to endure being a man because that's what God wants. Something like that.

Actually it was the exact opposite. She was one of the most open minded therapist I'd ever been to. She showed me in the official church handbook how I wasn't doing anything immoral or out of lines with our religion. She said that there was even a transgender woman who goes to the local ward and that she would let me meet her. I was really shocked. She went on to explain that I would only face disciplinary action (excommunication) if I did SRS or acted on homosexual inclinations. I don't plan to do either of those things, so I'm good to go! She even wants to help my mom learn to accept me (my biggest opponent) using scriptures!

So I thought it was really super. But then she asked to speak to my sister in private. She told my sister that I wasn't "really" transgender because I didn't fit some checklist of criteria she had and because I wasn't sexually deviant. She said if I was really transgender, I would be promiscuous or something like that. She said that she thinks I just have gender identity disorder and that I'm trying to figure out who I am.

So I just wanted to let you all know that you aren't allowed to be transgender unless you are sexually deviant.

I hope the conclusion you're making here is based off of facetiousness...because otherwise your perception is totally skewed and I don't think I would be out of line to ask that you got a second opinion. Also, opinions on these issues seem to vary from church to church as the Bible is something to be interpreted and very few things it dictates are seen as concrete. Basically, another church may view your situation entirely different.

In my opinion, psychological approaches (which is usually viewed as more scientific) and religion never really mix all that well though, because there is usually a conflict in ideology.

Quote from: JasonRX on January 21, 2012, 04:33:29 PM
I hope the conclusion you're making here is based off of facetiousness...because otherwise your perception is totally skewed and I don't think I would be out of line to ask that you got a second opinion. Also, opinions on these issues seem to vary from church to church as the Bible is something to be interpreted and very few things it dictates are seen as concrete. Basically, another church may view your situation entirely different.

In my opinion, psychological approaches (which is usually viewed as more scientific) and religion never really mix all that well though, because there is usually a conflict in ideology.

No I was being facetious, I think it was a ridiculous statement for her to make.

What a jerk. She seems like a nice lady but I don't believe transsexuality is an issue of sexual deviance, unless it's to be believed that transsexual women are really men. There are actually conservative women trapped in mens' bodies as well.

Transsexuality is a MEDICAL disorder, NOT a mental disorder.

I believe medically, transsexuality comes from a level of hormones in the brain and nervous system.

This is what people need to understand.

Not only is that an absolutely ignorant, bigoted, and erroneous characterization of GID, but she committed a severe breach of doctor-patient confidentiality.  She could lose her license for that, I think.  Extremely unprofessional.  Even if she didn't hold the views that she did, this sort of behavior would make me run for the hills.

I would punch that therapist in the face with words.
Seriously... also Psychology has to be secular. o_o

Quote from: Zylphia on January 21, 2012, 04:54:17 PM
I would punch that therapist in the face with words.
Seriously... also Psychology has to be secular. o_o

My thoughts exactly.

Non-secular psychology is like non-radioactive uranium, it doesn't work.

From reading your other recent posts it sounds like you are still trying to work it out -  but also have this need for your issues to be "answerable to" by your church. Still, you expect  "it to be a huge waste of time". Surely that there tells you something of your regard to their ill-informed judgement, professional knowledge of GID..

Still, it sounds like you've had a small breakthrough - the LDS therapist's acceptance of transgender (but on her terms), her letting you meet a trans woman in the ward.. But, it sounds as if you don't mind that the therapist (part of your church) control the proceedings..

Therapists are the devil

Quote from: batgirl on January 21, 2012, 08:00:50 PM
Therapists are the devil

Really? Mine's been nothing but caring and helpful..

I would get away from that environment... it seems like it can only be harmful to be around.

And, side note, why are religious folk so focused on sex???? Playing around in the bedroom in creative ways isn't worth all the drama they seem to make it ...

I forgot the most enraging part....she told my sister that 'it was just a phase!' like I'm some kind of little kid.

Oh yes, I've been feeling like a female for 10+ years, but maybe it is just a phase. :U

Put simply, faith is the denial of observation so that belief can be preserved. Religious minded individuals are by definition suffering from a type of complex and deeply held delusion. If GID is viewed as a mental disorder, it seems irrational to expect help from someone who is also clearly in the same boat. The phrase "the lunatics are running the asylum" springs to mind.

Patient: I believe I'd be happier if I changed "x" about my life.
Religious Therapist:  based on the assumpion there is a great skydaddy with opinions on the matter, I believe you'd be happier if "x".

...... see my point?
Check out www.exmormon.org (http://www.exmormon.org) for help and information on how to escape.

Sneaky and unethical Mormons?  ::)  Now that is a surprise  :laugh:

Quote from: heatherrose on January 21, 2012, 09:00:50 PM

Find a NON-Momon therapist on your own

Good advise

Quote from: heatherrose on January 21, 2012, 09:00:50 PM

read Cindiana Jones' book "Squirrel Cage".

Cindiana Jones

That's an awesome name  ;D  I think she should use it

Quote from: jdinatale on January 21, 2012, 04:19:51 PM
She went on to explain that I would only face disciplinary action (excommunication) if I did SRS or acted on homosexual inclinations. I don't plan to do either of those things, so I'm good to go!

And that makes you happy?

This is exactly why I am in Seminary. I am so sick and tired of churches brainwashing people through fear. She basically told you that you would go to hell if you went through the whole process.

That's like a church saying "you can be gay but if you have gay sex you'll go to hell."

JD, you have the knack of picking the worse therapists I have ever heard of.

I'm concerned for you.

Quote from: 0451 on January 21, 2012, 04:45:22 PM
Not only is that an absolutely ignorant, bigoted, and erroneous characterization of GID, but she committed a severe breach of doctor-patient confidentiality.  She could lose her license for that, I think.  Extremely unprofessional.  Even if she didn't hold the views that she did, this sort of behavior would make me run for the hills.

Yes. She could lose her license in a heartbeat for doing what she did.

However, I seriously doubt she is Licensed. She is LDS. Their Bishops do not even require formal religious education.

I've had good and bad dealings with the fine Mormon folk... Some have gone about their business in an upfront, professional manor, other's (too many) have unfortunately had far too many 'Better Ideas' than I care to bother with  :P

I say, from a 'European' mind-set view it's a very insightful thread on US American religious issues, hum.

It helps to explain some stuff to me, yet it leaves me so detached - I wonder why?

I had an arsehole as a therapist/psychiatrist, he did hurt me lots, and all in the name of "therapy" 15min a month for R500-00, and it was enough to make me go for the big check-out more then once.
He did mention though in his last GIDNOS report "... Mr. xxx does not belong to any church...  and has not had sufficient fantasies... " I must be missing something, he he.
Always wondered what those comments were all about.

Lastly, I can hear all this uproar about this LDS-councillor, and in deed it IS interesting how much 'credibility' , raising major upset, she got for just working for/in the church...
In deed she might just have been all really well meaning! In her own knowing way, that is.

Most non-church European-socialised folks would just laugh it off as a typical churchy opinion, including all the sexual deviant commentary.

Give that sort of power to the church - and that's just what you will get, yes?

At least no one will want to have an auto-da-fé for you, and that's progress for you honey.
Big time, I say :-)

My 2 cents,
Axélle

As others here have stated, I have concerns about the patient confidentiality and in whose interest the therapist is acting.

It might be well to clarify those issues further.

   
Just another example of why religion needs to be wheeled off to the looney house. 
Along with belief in witch craft and spaghetti monsters. -__-

Seriously though. These people are so dangerous. They have no right to call them self's mental health professionals.

They are not trained not educated and they make decisions from a 5000yr old book that promotes rape and murder.

See i actually read my bible.

And i came to a conclusion. It's nonsense! And if by some very unlikely chance they bible is a factual collection of recorded history. (ROFL at the notion)

Then screw this god! I could care less if it did create me and the universe. I can actually see lucifers point. I'll side with him! LOL

Now im off to listen to some Pendulum some ungodly devil noise that will corrupt my soul! : D

You don't believe in spaghetti monsters? *hikes up dress* Hummmmph!!!  :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

Quote from: Zylphia on January 21, 2012, 06:46:50 PM
Non-secular psychology is like non-radioactive uranium, it doesn't work.

= very old, and very spent (and having caused a lot of sickness along the way).

I'm curious as to what they consider SRS to actually be?

Like is it ok to go onto HRT get FFS surgery for breast inplants and such and sick immoral transgenderl to then change your gentials? o.O


It just comes off as though this woman has no idea about what she's talking about. Which she probably dosen't. ;p

LSD therapist COOL! How long before you get to trip out  ;D

Always thought it was the other way round.

Quote from: TheUglyDuck on January 22, 2012, 04:52:32 AM
   
Just another example of why religion needs to be wheeled off to the looney house. 
Along with belief in witch craft and spaghetti monsters. -__-

People carted off those who practices earth religions to their death by burning them at the stake or by hanging them. Labeling people who are different than you as crazy is poor judgement not to mention a bit hypocritical because of what we, transgenders, go through on a daily basis.

QuoteSeriously though. These people are so dangerous. They have no right to call them self's mental health professionals.

Who are "these people?"

QuoteThey are not trained not educated and they make decisions from a 5000yr old book that promotes rape and murder.

See i actually read my bible.

And i came to a conclusion. It's nonsense! And if by some very unlikely chance they bible is a factual collection of recorded history.(ROFL at the notion)

You obviously regard the Bible in the same light that fundamentalist view the bible....that it is or suppose to be a recorded history....literal translations. Therefore, since it is not, you feel that you have the license to call people who believe in a God or uses a book for spiritual advancement as crazy people.

Before you group all spiritual people into a group of crazies who read a book focused on "rape and murder" maybe you should practice tact next time before posting your opinions.

Everyone is certainly entitled to their own opinions and beliefs, even you. But, from what I see, you fall into the same category of fundamentalists. They believe their way is right and others way is wrong.

QuoteThen screw this god! I could care less if it did create me and the universe. I can actually see lucifers point. I'll side with him! LOL

Now im off to listen to some Pendulum some ungodly devil noise that will corrupt my soul! : D

yeah....

Jdinatale, another truly heartbreaking post from you :( I hope you are doing ok with all these negative things happening to you. I have a question for you. So your therapist referenced some list that she's using or determining factors as to whether you are trans* or not, have you asked her what it is? I'm guessing (uh, hopefully) that she's not somehow interpreting the SOC that way, so is there an LDS document that gives guidance on how to deal with trans*? I think that might be a good starting point, just figuring out what she's using and maybe that will help give you an explanation about why she's coming out of left field with this stuff. In light of the situation, I do hope you are staying positive and not letting the negativity sap the life from you. Meghan.

I find most therapists are psychological deviants. I've got nothing against them, I just don't personally share their deviance in this area and certainly not in the role they require of the customer(patient?).

I find psychiatrists are useful for getting on pensions, work compensation, staying out of jail or otherwise being helped in court.

They are also necessary for srs permission etc.

There must be good psychologists out there but the ones I've encountered have been draining, degrading and damaging to my self esteem. I find it extremely compromising that I am forced to submit to these people as part of my transition.

I'm glad that you have experienced otherwise :D

Well in all fairness, at least now you have an excuse to be excessively promiscuous.

Quote from: ~~BebeLyss~~ on January 21, 2012, 04:41:35 PM
What a jerk. She seems like a nice lady but I don't believe transsexuality is an issue of sexual deviance, unless it's to be believed that transsexual women are really men. There are actually conservative women trapped in mens' bodies as well.

Transsexuality is a MEDICAL disorder, NOT a mental disorder.

I believe medically, transsexuality comes from a level of hormones in the brain and nervous system.

This is what people need to understand.

don't mean to change the subject but didn't you say you are no longer trans because you found Jesus and you being trans was only trying to fill a void in your life?

Quote from: Annah on January 22, 2012, 09:59:56 PM
don't mean to change the subject but didn't you say you are no longer trans because you found Jesus and you being trans was only trying to fill a void in your life?

Annah,
I have fallen in love with your recent posts.

Quote from: JasonRX on January 22, 2012, 11:54:56 PM
Annah,
I have fallen in love with your recent posts.

As a current Pastor, I know how fundamentalist Christians think. I was a pastor for a fundamentalist church for 10 years. i haven't quite figured out if Bebe is just bouncing everywhere soul searching or an "evangelical mole" in a transgender site. If the latter is true, he certainly isn't the first I have run into. PinkEssence and TGResources encountered this kind of strategy.

I am still hoping that he is confused and searching for him/herself. At the moment, I am still a little peeved that just three weeks ago he told us we were all going to hell. Now he's back as a transgender.

Im so glad religion has a much weaker hold over this side of the pond. I dont really come across religious people in my day to day life and from what ive heard from the USA that might be a good thing. I cant rememebr the last time i heard anything good asociated with any organised religion espeically when also talking about trans issues.

Quote from: El on January 23, 2012, 04:55:18 AM
I cant rememebr the last time i heard anything good asociated with any organised religion espeically when also talking about trans issues.

http://www.ucc.org/lgbt/ (http://www.ucc.org/lgbt/)
http://www.ucc.org/lgbt/callmemalcolm.html (http://www.ucc.org/lgbt/callmemalcolm.html)
http://www.gaychurch.org/Find_a_Church/find_a_church.htm (http://www.gaychurch.org/Find_a_Church/find_a_church.htm)
http://gaylife.about.com/od/religion/a/gaychurch.htm (http://gaylife.about.com/od/religion/a/gaychurch.htm)

There are tons of "organized religions" and denominations that are LGBT friendly. The problem is so many of us just assume there isn't and never bother looking into it.

One girl was convinced there were no LGBT friendly churches in Texas. Not only did I find them, I found one within 5 miles of her home in less then four minutes.

We have over 9 lgbt friendly churches within one square mile of the small city I live in...right smack in the middle of Amish Country.

Annah, that sounds impressive.

Tell me how would I go about it in a country (SA) and a city like Pretoria, suburb Fairie Glen?

They will not advertise that fact - and making an appointment with each and every pastor/dominie/preacher at any of the close by churches be QUITE a task, to say the least.

Now my ex-sister-in-law goes to an 'open-minded' Presbyterian church and then just to tell me, my heart-op was the Lords punishment for transitioning... and she will NEVER see me as anyone other then my former male self...

The point, - the preacher may well find us acceptable, but then if one has a congregation full of such bigots it's not going to be  a very good experience, no?

Thanks,
Axélle

Quote from: Axélle-Michélle on January 23, 2012, 10:38:26 AM
Annah, that sounds impressive.

Tell me how would I go about it in a country (SA) and a city like Pretoria, suburb Fairie Glen?

They will not advertise that fact - and making an appointment with each and every pastor/dominie/preacher at any of the close by churches be QUITE a task, to say the least.

Now my ex-sister-in-law goes to an 'open-minded' Presbyterian church and then just to tell me, my heart-op was the Lords punishment for transitioning... and she will NEVER see me as anyone other then my former male self...

The point, - the preacher may well find us acceptable, but then if one has a congregation full of such bigots it's not going to be  a very good experience, no?

Thanks,
Axélle

There are four LGBT friendly churches in Pretoria.
http://www.eastside.org.za/ (http://www.eastside.org.za/)
http://www.agallia.co.za/ (http://www.agallia.co.za/)
http://www.gaychurch.co.za/ (http://www.gaychurch.co.za/)
and
Glorious Light MCC

The best advice is to call them and ask questions...or email them.

Open and affirming churches are churches and/or denominations where not only the pastor is affirming but the entire congregation is as well.  There's a long process of education, seminars and congregational voting to make a church open and affirming

Hope that helps!

Thank you so much Dear!

Axelle