I started with a therapist and went to planned parenthood and got my hrt there. My mother would like me to stop seeing the therapist and planned parenthood and go to a psychiatrist and endo instead. Would i come across any roadblocks in doing this. She said she would be more easily supportive if i did this. Ive already been on hormones for a week now (will be longer when i see endo) other than my blood test showing that will there be any other issues i should be aware of. I want to transition, but i want to take fewer risks. Please help if you can.

Hi Leah/Newt, if my understanding is correct a therapist has a degree in psychology as do psychiatrists.  And if Planned Parenthood uses the same protocol as an endocrinologist would. I don't see the difference.  If you have insurance that would cover what your mother suggests I see no roadblocks that would be any different than your present choice.  If it means a more supportive role from your mother, it would be worth the change.


Hugs, Jessica

You're an adult, you make your own medical decisions. Thank your mom for her input and concerns, and tell her that you're satisfied with the care that you're receiving.

Hugs, Devlyn

Im not going to stop taking my hormones, i already feel better. I am curious what a psychiatrist would say if they know i am alrwady taking them. If they would come to the conclusion and diagnose me with gender dysphoria or not. I want my parents to be part of this because i really want them to accept this and see ill be more open after i fully transition. I want them there when i go down for surgery and when i come out of it. Its all still at least a year away but my heart hurts out of worry something will get in the way.

I don't know where you live, but in Ontario, a psychiatrist is no longer needed.  I believe this is due to WPATH.  I recently asked my doctor for hormones and she agreed to refer me to an endocrinologist. Surgery just requires 2 evaluations, neither of which require a psychiatrist.  Maybe things are similar where you are.

Just make sure that the psychiatrist is WPATH-trained.  Most psychiatrists have no idea what to do with transgender patients other than generic mental health care.  With the proper training, at least they will know what to do.

The difference between the Planned Parenthood (informed consent) model and the WPATH model is that a WPATH-trained provider will want to ensure that you do indeed have gender dysphoria, rather than some other mental health disorder.  They are not trying to put roadblocks in your way, and you will likely have no difficulty getting the diagnosis.

Quote from: KathyLauren on November 09, 2018, 07:36:42 AM
Just make sure that the psychiatrist is WPATH-trained.  Most psychiatrists have no idea what to do with transgender patients other than generic mental health care.  With the proper training, at least they will know what to do.

The difference between the Planned Parenthood (informed consent) model and the WPATH model is that a WPATH-trained provider will want to ensure that you do indeed have gender dysphoria, rather than some other mental health disorder.  They are not trying to put roadblocks in your way, and you will likely have no difficulty getting the diagnosis.

I am under the impression that informed consent is part of WPATH now? My IC provider certainly ascertained, and diagnosed, me with gender dysphoria.

Quote from: Jessica on November 09, 2018, 12:46:06 AM
Hi Leah/Newt, if my understanding is correct a therapist has a degree in psychology as do psychiatrists.  And if Planned Parenthood uses the same protocol as an endocrinologist would. I don't see the difference.  If you have insurance that would cover what your mother suggests I see no roadblocks that would be any different than your present choice.  If it means a more supportive role from your mother, it would be worth the change.


Hugs, Jessica

According to their paper work they do. When I restarted this week they also had me sign a informed consent form. I did not have to provide any letters but I also did show my license that has my legal name and the F marker so I believe that is why.

Leah, Planned Parenthood is not dangerous. They are going to do bloodwork. Having gone to a endocrinologist the only difference I noticed was not having to drop my skirt for inspection which honestly I was glad for.

The path for transitioning requires the therapist. Plus you are going to need the guidance because frankly it can be a bit of a roller coaster.

If you do decide to change to a endocrinologist have your files transferred and find one you are comfortable with.

Best of luck

Hugs

I trust planned parenthood and my current therapist but my mother does not. Doesnt matter but i want to have her and my dads support. Plus i rent my house from my mom so.

I actually found another mtf in my community and she is being so helpfull.

Quote from: Leah/Newt on November 09, 2018, 10:05:51 PM
I actually found another mtf in my community and she is being so helpfull.

This is wonderful, meeting others that share your same concerns is a way of gaining friendship and experience.  Both are vital to all. 

Hugs and smiles from a California girl

Quote
I am under the impression that informed consent is part of WPATH now?

In Ontario, HRT is informed consent, but surgery requires 2 evaluations from doctor, practical nurse or social worker (with Masters).  However, it's a lot easier than it used to be and does not require a psychiatrist anymore.