Gender-Affirming Therapy

The short answer is yes! The long answer is that over time, gender dysphoria can be integrated into a person's wholeness. Gender dysphoria is the marked incongruence between one's experienced gender and their sex assigned at birth.

Through a combination of psychotherapy, medical transition, legal transition, vocal training, and/or social transition, gender dysphoria can be reduced. It is important to note that every person's experience of gender dysphoria is unique and should be treated as such. Inner work and self-acceptance are integral parts of this process.

Gender dysphoria is caused by the incongruence between the sex assigned at birth and gender identity.

Since individuals experience gender dysphoria in their own unique ways, the causes of gender dysphoria are diverse. They can be linked to societal factors, rigid social norms, or other factors. There is no known gene or biological marker that causes gender dysphoria. Since gender is a socially enforced cultural norm, it can also vary within different cultures, races, and geographic locations.

Understanding what gender dysphoria is can help people understand how it can manifest differently from person to person. It can also help in showing people how to support individuals in aligning with their gender identity.

Gender therapists are mental health professionals who specialize in helping individuals explore their gender identity and expression.

They support clients without judgment. They also provide psychoeducation to better understand gender variance. All while creating an environment where someone can explore their gender without fear or retaliation.

Gender therapists do not seek to change someone's mind. Instead they help them become more at peace with their gender identity to feel a sense of relief from any gender dysphoria they might be experiencing. This can also mean aiding the client in building a network of additional resources. Ones that are supportive in other aspects of life beyond the therapy room.

Gender therapists provide assessment, diagnosis, support, advocacy. They can also provide referrals, coordination of care, and in some cases also offer family or relationship counseling.

This is a supportive therapeutic approach. One that embraces and validates the client's gender identity and journey at any stage of their transition. Gender affirming therapy aims to provide support and understanding for the client's exploration of their gender identity. Instead of attempting to change their mind.

The goal is to help individuals gain insight into their identity. It also helps in offering assistance in taking steps towards self-affirmation. This support may include ongoing individual counseling, guidance with coming out, assistance with social or medical transitioning, among other forms of support.

Ultimately, the intention is to provide a validating experience. One led by practitioners who have a comprehensive understanding of gender identity and gender dysphoria.

The best approach involves a combination of psychosocial, medical, and legal support. Talk therapy can be beneficial in dealing with gender dysphoria by first accepting it within oneself. It provides a safe environment to discuss body image. It also provides a space for coming out to others and potentially further transition. Some transgender and non-binary individuals may choose to transition socially, medically, or legally.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to transition. Each person has the right to determine what is best for them at each stage.

Therapists will collaborate with clients to develop a plan to address any co-occurring mental health issues. They would also help identify the specific areas of transition clients wish to pursue in their gender journey.

At Arrive Therapy, session rates vary per provider, ranging from $125 to $200 per session. Each provider has a number of lower fee spots available.

To learn more about our fees, please visit our Team page.

Arrive Therapy is an out-of-network provider, which means we do not accept insurance. Payment for services is required at the end of each session, and we accept all major credit cards and Health Savings Accounts (HSA). If your insurance offers out-of-network benefits, you can submit a superbill to your insurance company for reimbursement. We automatically provide these at the end of each month. To learn more about fees and insurance, please visit our Insurance page.

The treatment of gender dysphoria involves a variety of approaches. This includes talk therapy, acceptance therapy, and support. The specific treatment plan will vary from person to person, as it is tailored to individual needs.

At Arrive Therapy, we believe in taking a holistic approach to treatment. This means getting to know each individual. It also means creating a safe and affirming environment for them to explore their gender identity and discuss their dysphoria. In the first session, clients will meet with their therapist to complete a comprehensive psychosocial intake. This intake includes a set of questions specifically designed to assess how they experience gender dysphoria. It also helps identify areas where they can work together to promote acceptance and support.

Children often begin noticing differences in gender between the ages of 2 and 4, which is developmentally appropriate. When a child starts to feel uncomfortable with their assigned gender at birth, they may show signs of interest in activities, clothes, or behaviors typically associated with the opposite sex. Some children may ask to wear clothes that feel right for them. Others may use words to express that they "feel like" the opposite gender. Some children may want to go by a different name or share that they want to be "just like mommy.

These signs can be noticed in childhood by both cisgender (identifying with the gender they were assigned at birth) and transgender individuals. However, most parents or caregivers only remember their transgender children expressing distress about their assigned sex at birth.

It is important to note that experiencing gender dysphoria in childhood is not a prerequisite for being transgender as a teen or adult. People transition at different stages in life for various reasons. Just because gender distress or dysphoria was not present in childhood does not mean that an individual is not transgender. Transgender individuals may come to understand and embrace their identity at different points in their lives.

Gender identity development is a complex and personal process. One that varies from individual to individual. It is crucial to support and affirm children's gender expression, regardless of whether they identify as cisgender or transgender. By creating a safe and accepting environment, we can help children explore and understand their gender identity without judgment or pressure.

Listening, loving, and educating yourself are three key actions that may seem simple, but they encapsulate the profound journey parents and caregivers embark on when their child comes out as transgender. At Arrive Therapy, we understand the challenges families face. This is why we work not only with LGBTQ+ individuals but also with their parents, caregivers, and family members.

Listening with an Open Heart: When your child shares their transgender identity with you, it is crucial to listen without interruption. This creates a safe space for your child to express themselves. It also builds trust in your relationship. By listening attentively, you demonstrate that you are a safe person with whom your child can share this deeply personal information.

Loving Unconditionally: Love is the foundation of any strong family bond. When your child comes out as transgender, it is essential to convey that your love for them remains unwavering. Even if you are still processing the news and trying to understand what it means, make it clear to your child that your love is unconditional and all-encompassing.

Educating Yourself: Educating yourself is a vital step in supporting your transgender child. This process can take various forms, from a quick Google search to seeking guidance from professionals. It is crucial to gather information from reputable and trusted sources to better understand what being transgender means. Remember, educating yourself is an ongoing journey. It is okay to have questions and seek support along the way.

It is important to note that assumptions can be tempting. Especially for parents and caregivers whose primary role is to protect and provide for their child. However, it is essential to avoid making assumptions. Instead focus on learning and understanding your child's unique experience.

By listening, loving, and educating yourself, you create a supportive and nurturing environment for your transgender child to thrive. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Resources are available to help guide you and your family through this process.

In order to manage gender dysphoria at school, it is recommended to review your school's policies. This is to determine if there are any gender-affirming policies that can provide support for your gender identity. Some schools may have a gender support plan in place. These outline various ways in which you can receive support within the school environment.

If your school does not have any affirming policies, it is advisable to consult with trusted teachers or counselors. They would be able to provide suggestions on how to feel more affirmed at school. This may involve updating your chosen name and pronouns in all school-related settings. It can also mean ensuring access to bathrooms and locker rooms that are safe and affirming. It is important to identify safe spaces within the school environment. Trusted adults can also serve as allies in creating a supportive and safe environment. This can minimize distress related to gender dysphoria.

Follow this link to see an example of what a gender support plan may look like (ASCA School Support Plan). If your school does not have one, you can utilize this template when discussing your needs with school officials or trusted staff members.

When dealing with gender dysphoria, which is the distress someone feels when their gender identity doesn't match the sex they were assigned at birth, mental health therapies can be crucial.

Popular approaches often include talk therapy with a psychologist or counselor. This can help individuals explore their feelings about gender. It also helps them cope with any anxiety or depression they might be experiencing.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one common method used. It teaches coping skills and manages negative thoughts.

Another important aspect is support groups. This allows individuals to share experiences and gain support from others facing similar challenges.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be helpful for people with gender dysphoria, which is when a person feels discomfort because their gender identity doesn't match the sex they were assigned at birth. CBT works by helping individuals change negative thought patterns and behaviors. For someone with gender dysphoria, CBT might involve talking about their feelings. It also involves understanding and challenging negative thoughts about their gender. Finally, it can help develop coping strategies to deal with stress and anxiety. This process can help them feel more comfortable. It can also improve their overall mental health.

The most effective way to treat gender dysphoria typically involves focusing on a person's mental health. This can include therapy to help them explore their feelings about their gender. It can also involve joining support groups to connect with others who have similar experiences. Sometimes it can mean exploring medical treatments like hormone therapy or surgery if they choose. The main aim is to reduce distress and improve their overall well-being.