Transgender, gender expansive and sexually/affectionally queer folks often hear messages about being outsiders, tough to understand, or not good enough. Queer community is a fantastic resource, but it can be difficult to find in-depth support in community spaces. Each unique individual needs a different blend of resources on their path to emotional wellness, and we should be able to access all levels of support without having to adjust or hide our identity.
My training and experience with transgender, lesbian, gay, bisexual, intersex, asexual and queer or questioning clients includes graduate coursework, post-graduate clinical experience, CE (continuing education) hours, volunteering and community events (both LGBT and specifically transgender-focused,) clinical supervision, and personally-lived experience.
I fully support life-saving, gender-affirming healthcare as outlined in the WPATH Standards of Care. I am committed to upholding professional standards without gatekeeping, and will consult with you on letters of support in an ethical, transparent way. We can work on overcoming common obstacles and achieving this important step, together.
Being queer is not a mental health disorder. Being trans is not a mental health disorder.
They are among the variety of healthy expressions of a person's identity and sexuality. Gender expansive and sexually/affectionally expansive people are worthy and deserving of safe and supportive relationships with self, loved ones and community.
It's my sincere hope that you will find supporters who fully understand that being queer/trans is not “the issue,” and who will understand that emotional healing can happen in a safe, comfortable, and accepting environment. Talking with a counselor can be a great way to explore gender and sexual identity, but it’s also important to address other emotional wellness challenges like negative self-talk, anxiety, perfectionism, or past trauma.
If you use NB and GE terms to describe your gender identity that doesn't fit completely into one of the two binary categories, it's likely that you've felt overlooked or erased, even in LGBT spaces.
I specifically welcome you to participate in counseling in a safe space, and to find support on the path towards joyfully expressing your authentic self.
I still check my voicemail! Feel free to give me a call if you prefer.
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