Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Community Conversation => Transgender talk => Topic started by: Rhonda_is_me on June 09, 2016, 11:35:52 AM

Title: Approaching VA about starting transition
Post by: Rhonda_is_me on June 09, 2016, 11:35:52 AM
Good morning,
     I have my first appointment with Mental Health at the VA here in Phoenix tomorrow 6/10 and am curious if there might be a certain way to approach the subject? This will be the first person at the VA who will know how I truely feel inside. Thank you all.
Title: Re: Approaching VA about starting transition
Post by: Devlyn on June 09, 2016, 11:53:02 AM
I think you told us you're familiar with VA Directive 2013? Be ready to steer them to that in case the person you get is unfamiliar with it. Best wishes!

Hugs, Devlyn
Title: Re: Approaching VA about starting transition
Post by: Rhonda_is_me on June 09, 2016, 11:58:38 AM
Thank you Devlyn. I have read the directive and if I remember (need to look) but believe I have it saved on my phone.
Title: Re: Approaching VA about starting transition
Post by: Rhonda_is_me on June 16, 2016, 08:18:14 AM
So after my first attempt at an appointment on the 10th (waited over 45 min past appt time to find out dr called in ill.) I had a reschedule yesterday the 15th. All my nerves and worries eased once I met him and realized he is a gay man. Comfort level on bringing subject up sky rockets. He is going to speak to the local specialist and see me again on July 11th and will start lab work and referrals out.

Title: Re: Approaching VA about starting transition
Post by: Devlyn on June 16, 2016, 08:26:14 AM
Yays! :)  You're on your way.

Hugs, Devlyn
Title: Re: Approaching VA about starting transition
Post by: Rhonda_is_me on June 16, 2016, 08:30:36 AM
I was so nervous at first. But dr is great. 200 times better then last psych they had me with. Lol