I have two options for a therapist...One goes by Icath and one by wpath.  Can someone tell me anything about these two methods that would help me with my decision?

What is icpath?

I asked her if she knew about wpath standards of care and she said she leaned more towards this....

http://www.icath.org/

To me it seems like the icath provides an easier access to hormones, which is good. Both therapists should offer care and help regarding transition, social, and blending in. However, I believe most SRS surgeons won't accept informed consent for surgery, (my guess) and that you'll still need at least one, maybe two, sign-offs for GCS, more along WPATH guidelines. ICATH seems reasonable when a transperson is already sure of their gender, perhaps the WPATH wants to help you make sure of your decision to begin transition as some things (HRT) are not easily or entirely reversible after some time.

Best wishes and safety on your journey!

Hugs

That's what i thought.  I was just concerned because this therapist has been only in practice a year, though she seemed pretty knowledgeable about the situation.  The other therapist is actually listening to my case and giving me input before we even have a first session, which is something that has helped me feel more comfortable.  I cant decide!!!!! Arg!!!!

Here in NYC it seems as though they do a mix of both. The two therapists I've seen basically said, "you don't need me for hormones but you do need me for surgery."

I had my doubts but when I actually went to my dr visit I was really (pleasantly) surprised at how easy it was, and not only that how many options there were and it was all my choosing. Of course I wouldn't be recommended anything that could seriously damage my health but I had to acknowledge risks.

I still don't have an official diagnosis for Gender Dysphoria or GID from anyone. But I am on full dose hormones and being monitored. I didn't have to wait for letters or any gatekeeping. Just a visit, evaluation and bloodwork (which I had done prior to the visit).

I still see my therapist, and she does follow WPATH guidelines. In fact she is a member of the Policy committee for WPATH which is one big reason I chose her.

I am sure of what I need and want though. Maybe that is the difference. I am guessing people on the fence or unsure would probably go down the WPATH path of a recommendation letter. Or maybe the therapist would recommend holding off on hormones until you're 100% sure. In my case she asked whether I was on them on my 1st visit.

WPATH standards of care say that hormones should be informed consent.  Maybe icath started prior to WPATH saying that hormones should be informed consent?