Gender Identity

Gender identity issues, sometimes called gender dysphoria or gender conflict, occur when an individual feels an inconsistency between their physical gender and the gender they truly feel or identify with. This most commonly exhibits itself as a physical discomfort with the gender one was assigned at birth, including the feeling of being in the wrong body. Children with gender dysphoria may express disgust of their own genitals or a certainty that they will grow up to be the opposite sex. Some individuals with gender identity issues treat this feeling by physically modifying their bodies to better match their gender identity. Gender dysphoria comes with it an increased risk for depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and bullying. If you are experiencing gender identity issues, reach out to one of TherapyDen’s qualified professionals today.

Need help finding the right therapist?
Find Your Match

Meet the specialists

 

As a Gender Therapist, I have 20+ yrs of experience working with youth & adults who are questioning, identify as trans, non binary, intersex, or re-transitioning. Not everyone who sees me wants to make gender changes, some people just want to see a gender-affirming therapist about other issues. I do Evals/letters for Doctors. Partners & family also welcome. Consults for therapists in groups and individually on gender-focused clinical work. WPATH Certified Member/WPATH Mentor.

— Lisette Lahana, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA

I have experience working with trans* and cisgender clients across the spectrum in working to understand and navigate transition, access gender-affirming healthcare, processing internalized beliefs and negative experiences related to their gender and/or sexual identity; as well as other mental health concerns or distress.

— Sarah Emeritz, Clinical Social Worker in Ann Arbor, MI
 

Are you seeking a “letter” of assessment to access gender-affirming care per WPATH Standards of Care, or help from a therapist—of lived experience—who is well-versed in the nuances of health policy and has successfully helped clients navigate insurance coverage? One of my specialties is working with gender diverse individuals, particularly therapeutic support for gender transitions. WPATH Certifications: Child & Adolescent; Advanced Mental Health; Advanced Documentation; & Foundations

— Stacey Jackson-Roberts, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Silver Spring, MD

You are so stressed by questions about your gender identity and gender expression. The gender dysphoria hits you at the core, often leading to depression and anxiety. You are fed up with correcting people when they mis-gender you or use your “dead name". I am a queer, trans-affirming therapist who can help you navigate this cisgender society that often excludes you. I work from a model of Informed Consent, helping you make the best decisions about your own body.

— Lisabeth Wotherspoon, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Rochester, NH
 

“Being trans means I made myself and the world didn’t make me. I defy some of the most powerful cultural institutions in the world.” https://glaad.org/ilovebeingtransbc/ I partner with folks in understanding, accepting, expressing, and asserting their gender. I see gender as an infinite spectrum, and gender alignment/transition as a nonlinear process unique to each person.

— Aerin Riegelsberger, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA

My desire to work with gender identity was a critical component to my inspiration in becoming a sex therapist. I am passionate about delivering gender affirming care at all stages of exploration and/or transition.

— Ajay Dheer, Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern in Beaverton, OR
 

As part of my specialization in LGBTQ+ folks I've worked with many folks of diverse genders. I'm experienced working with folks questioning their gender, exploring medical transition, and folks just living their lives as trans folks. I have particular experience with teens and young adults with diverse genders.

— Meg Higgins, Clinical Social Worker in ,

My area of expertise and training is working with gender outlaws, outsiders, rebels, and pioneers. Wherever you are in our gender journey, and whatever space you take up on the gender spectrum I am here to support you. My approach is ICATH informed, I provide letters for pay-what-you-can without requiring ongoing treatment, and I also provide resources for ICATH providers as part of my complimentary 30 minute consultations.

— Kian Leggett, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Olympia, WA
 

I am dedicated to providing gender affirming care to the trans community and also do a lot of work supporting partners and family members of transgender individuals. Transition can be challenging on many levels for both the individual and those around them and it is important to me to help provide support for all and help people to maintain and strengthen connections throughout their transition.

— Heather Hollysmith, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist

“Being trans means I made myself and the world didn’t make me. I defy some of the most powerful cultural institutions in the world.” https://glaad.org/ilovebeingtransbc/ I partner with folks in understanding, accepting, expressing, and asserting their gender. I see gender as an infinite spectrum, and gender alignment/transition as a nonlinear process unique to each person. Let's cultivate trans joy.

— Aerin Riegelsberger, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA
 

I am non-binary and GNC and work with clients with all gender identities. Be it exploring transitioning, working through relationship changes related to gender, or simply diversifying your understanding of yourself and your gender identities, my office is a space for exploration and experimentation.

— Laurie Ebbe-Wheeler, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA

I don't assume that my lived experience makes me an expert on trans and gender issues. That's why I have pursued ongoing supervision and consultation from other respected trans-identified therapists, and attended gender wellness conferences and other trainings since before I began to work with gender diverse clients. Whether you (or your child) are starting to question your identity, need surgery letters, or are somewhere in between, I'm here to support you at the pace that feels right to you.

— Adrien Leacy, Clinical Social Worker in , MD
 

I love working with folx who are exploring gender identity and journeying with them as they claim the identity/identities that are their most authentic expression. I am happy to provide supportive documentation needed for social or medical transition, and strive to minimize challenges related to navigating insurance and medical systems. If you are needing documentation from a therapist and concerned about cost, please reach out to me so we can figure out how to best support you!

— Elizabeth Hawkins, Sex Therapist

While working at the San Diego LGBT Center, exploring gender identity was a primary focus of therapy for many or, at least, something that came up regularly in sessions. I have worked with people in transition, people who were certain of their gender identity, and people who were trying to "figure it out." I am comfortable with - and welcome - curiosity, questioning, and ambiguity. My academic studies have also focused heavily on gender and it's relation to other factors.

— Dr. Holly Altson, Psychologist in Bellingham, WA
 

I am genderqueer and have worked with many stripes of gender-expansive identities, both in private practice as well as with the community organization Queer Asterisk.

— Grace Ballard, Sex Therapist in New York, NY

Whether you are cis, trans or still exploring—gender, and our feelings about it, can be tricky! There are so many cultural, familial, and personal histories to unpack that can impact how we feel about our identity. I provide a curious, creative and non-judgmental space for you to think expansively about gender and try on different identities as you embark on self exploration. My goal is to help you better tune in to your intuition and boundaries and live a more authentic, fulfilling life.

— Kayla Freeman, Social Worker in Austin, TX
 

One of my favorite things to explore with client's is their self-identity and getting to truly know yourself as a person. And it is my personal belief that exploring one's gender identity is helpful, not only to have the opportunity to reflect and feel secure in one's self, but also to improve self-confidence and self-esteem, a sense of autonomy, and a greater sense of self.

— Gulsanam Azieva, Mental Health Counselor in New York, NY

I am dedicated to creating a safe space for my clients to explore gender identity, including the intersecting identities that influence gender. I come to therapy with an open mind and a space in which you can express your ideas without being afraid of judgement.

— Osvaldo Alcaraz, Mental Health Counselor in Northbrook, IL
 

If you’re trans, queer, or still trying to find yourself, we can work together on your journey.

— Anna Abramyan, Clinical Social Worker in Olympia, WA

I have 10 years experience supporting gender non-conforming individuals.

— Erika Gray, Clinical Psychologist in ,