I'm a 50 year old MTF who has fought transitioning for almost 40 years.  My wife, of 20 years, is aware of this issue and has been supportive. She is tired of the yo-yo, of wanting to transition and not.  She did get me to start a journal which has been very helpful.  Tired of resisting/suppressing the need, I confessed to her that yes I do want to transition, ultimately fulltime all the way.  Today, I met with my GP who was very supportive and agreed to help in any way possible.  Next month I have my first therapist session.  Currently they don't know why I've made the appointment, thus, I'm curious as to what to expect.  I've read here of some that seem to get a recommendation for HRT from their first visit.  Is that realistic for me?  Thanks

D

Given that you've been a bit back and forwards about transition they might want to talk things through with you for a few more sessions first. But who knows - if they work off an informed consent model they may refer you right up. Good luck!

Most of the time, a therapist might want to see you a few times before starting you on hormones but if you open up and are honest, it can greatly shorten the time before you start hormones. As for what to expect, go to youtube and watch "the transition channel". For the most part these videos are right out of the therapy sessions I attended 36 years ago and are just as true today as they were then.

Thanks for the quick responses.  I'll check out Youtube.  I must say I have a great sense of relief now.  A peace that has been missing. I am looking forward to the journey. It will be slow because I want to wait till my daughter finishes high school in three years before fully transitioning.  Thanks for all the posts on this site, it has been a big help.

D

I got my letter during the first visit, and I began HRT one week after. 

I was just completely honest with my therapist, and that's what I recommend for you and any other person.  Here's a bit of a summary (no details as to not taint others) of what I talked about with my therapist:

• I revealed that I am transgender
• When I first noticed it
• A little bit about me, my attitude, and what I have done about feeling transgender
• My intent: I wanted to start HRT
• What I want and what I don't want from HRT and transitioning
• What I had found through research - my understanding of being transgender and what would happen
• My plan: How would I finance it, would it affect my work, family, relationships, and safety-nets
• I asked if it may have been a phase, possible symptom of something else, if I could shake it off, or if there was any "cure"
• Next steps: Future therapy and referrals

I think your honesty will give you the best results.  Good luck!

Thanks! Sounds like your first session went very well. I had envisioned myself presenting my information in a similar fashion.  Hope mine goes as well. Thanks and good luck.

D