I only wish that I could be the recipient of such accusations [I love a good fight, be it verbal or physical].
I am completely circumventing the HBSOC proscribed process. I am not 'proud' of the fact, but a girl does what she must do to survive and if I was following religiously the HBSOC syllabus for transition, I would be dead right now.
I have been the 'victim' of ostracization and shunning in other TS 'support' forums for this very reason. It was not verbal nor overt, but it was manifested.
Frankly, I couldn't care less and I find the mentality depressingly puerile. The 'mechanics' of my transition are my business and mine alone.Rhonda:
I admire your free spirited attitude, but many people see your private decision concerning this mental health issue (gender dysphoria) that involves issues of sexuality as their business, and believe that what they think is best, is more important than what you believe is right for your own life. I am sorry, but this is fact; just look at what is being said by the religious right fanatics in America.
But, even within the transsexual community the Harry Bingaman Standards of care are the cause of very heated debate and controversy. There are many who have submitted to this standard of care within the transsexual community that wish to use it as a gate keeper, so to affirm their self perception of being more entitled and justified than those who have not conformed to the standard. It is being used to draw a distinction between, what they see, as two different groups within the transsexual community; one that is supported by the medical main stream and therefore are more socially acceptable, and the other that is not.
I dare remind you that this is a very public forum on the Internet that is focused on a very controversial personal, and what should be, a very private issue. As fare as what the owners of this website value on this topic is in question. Please read the following quote from the main page of this sight. For you to assume support on how you feel about this issue from anyone associated with this Internet sight is very dangerous.
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Our Links Editor has established a new links directoy under Medical. It is named "Therapists and Counselors." The directory currently includes the USA and its states, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Other countries will be added based on input.
Our aim is to develop a readily accessible list of mental health professionals, preferably those who are transgender friendly and knowledgeable of gender identity and expression issues and of the HBIGDA (now WPATH) Harry Benjamin Standards of Care (SOC). Susan's Place members are probably the best source of information concerning such professionals. In particular, you know whether or not your therapist/counselor or a family member's is supportive of gender variant people.
Please provide as much of the following information as possible, but don't let a lack of an item keep you from responding:
Name and credentials (e.g., LCSW, PhD, MSW, etc.)
Address, including any clinic or other organizational name
Phone Number
Email address, if available
Website, if applicable
Please post the information to this email address
linksstaff@susans.org An important part of one's transgender or intersex journey is to help others. Sharing information about supportive professional care is a great way to help our community. Your input is both vital and appreciated.