So, I just returned home from my first session of therapy with a gender specialist here in Santa Cruz, ca. And I can honestly say that that was the single most life changing moment....of my life! I feel so much better about my whole situation, having just come to the realization that I am probably trans (mtf) and that I can feel okay in this way. Having come from the background that I did, It feels amazing to have a specialist and trained professional on my side.

If anybody needs the contact info for a psychotherapist in my area (Santa Cruz, California) please feel free to inbox me and I'll help you get on your way

Also, off topic. But I wanted to say thank you to all of the members of this site, for helping me through these fledgling stages. I have only talked personally with two or three of you, but the personal stories on here are nothing short of outstandingly uplifting. Thank you so much everyone! Sincerely.

Coolsummer,
It's so great to see such a positive message! Congrats on getting started. What a huge step!
I've only gone to my second session with a gender specialist, though years with psychoanalysis. Isn't it a wonderful and freeing feeling to find yourself and accept yourself! Everyone's experiences with therapy are going to be different, given us as individuals and differences between therapists as well. I say that because I personally was put off a bit by my second session, however I realize there are going to be ups and downs, fits and starts with therapy as well as with my overall progress toward finding and being me. I'm in there somewhere and just need to get out. You as well!

Isn't this a fantastic site? I feel the same way in reading what others have to say. At the same time, a good online friend continually 'kicks' me to be sure and maintain that personal face-to-face contact. Last night happened also to be my second transgender group meeting and I'm elated over that experience. It's so inspirational to see what these women have faced and overcome and so supportive to have them truly interested in me and how I'm doing. If it is at all possible for you to find a support group nearby, I encourage you to give it a try. These are all such huge steps. Each one, for me at least, has taken a lot of courage and has forced me so far out of my comfort zone, but has given me that great feeling that you've described.

I can't wait to hear more of how things go for you! You deserve to be who you are and you're moving in the right direction!!

That's great, I hope things continue to go well and that your therapist can help guide you through the rest of the process ahead.

OlderTG, what do I call you? I feel like I need a colloquial name here.

But yes! It's such a relieving and invigorating experience. I don't feel as crazy as I did before. Plus, it means that I get to start hormones that much sooner! I can't wait for all of those changes. I feel sorrowful for your negative experience though. That could definitely be a downer, seeing as this person is basically the paramount (at least for me) of what defines your "absolution" as a TGirl. I feel for you!

And yes it really is. I had no idea that there was this much support for people with these struggles. It makes me feel much more confident knowing that I have a base to run to when things get tough and like you said, it's so inspiring!

Thank you so much for the guidance and counsel. You are the best! I can't wait to see how I turn out after all of this is finished. I want to share a picture of what I look like now so it's documented!

And thank you as well for the support Ms. Grace. I hope it goes well too! As long as I have you guys, there's no way it'll go bad. The biggest things I'm worried about are voice and make up. Ugh!