I've discovered there is a therapist in my area with a focus in Transgender issues. But I was curious if anyone has heard anything about her? Or even better if someone is from this area and has spoken with her?
I've never done therapy. So this is a big step, and one I'm a bit nervous about. Local culture isn't exactly the most friendly to therapy in general. I know my upbringing has left me more than a little tentative. But I really need to try and learn about who I am for sure. I'm sick of being depressed about it. So.. Anyone heard anything?
Her name is Dr. Alice Christianson. Based at the local Meritcare.
Erica,
You could maybe ask the doctor for some references? Some women that have successfully transitioned under her care? It's a rare specialty so you may have no other choices except to see her, travel a fair distance (140 mile round trip for me) or move to a city/town that has a bigger selection.
Also, the www has some good sites that cover the subject of choosing a TS specializing therapist, giving a list of good questions to ask, etc. I'm not sure if Susan's has a link but it's worth checking out.
Going to your first therapy session IS a big step. I went to my first last December and found that my anticipated fears were 10× worse than what I experienced. It's a big first step but one of the easier ones, imho. And something has to get the ball rolling! (No pun intended!)
Good luck, hang in there!
helen
Tommorrow is the day I'm going to call and try and get an appointment. Assuming I get the chance to (Stupid office hours being the same as working hours!).
How long before I manage to get in after that is hard to say, but hopefully soonish. I am going back to undergrad school if I can't get a gradschool to accept me after the deadline. So doing so under my work insurance is preferable to my parents' come August. (Do things like that get sent to them? I know reasons might not. But I don't know if they get something that says when and where? But that's not a big deal).
Either way, it's still something I hope I manage to keep the nerve up to do. I have great insurance, so it will be quite affordable for the time being.