Gender Dysphoria and Transgender Counseling

Biologically expressed gender–being male or female– is a result of a series of biological steps that start at conception and continue beyond puberty. At any time in that process, any step or number of steps could be out of line with the rest. This happens more often than most people know; the result is gender dysphoria.

The truth is that gender is not binary –for you or for anyone else! Gender exists on a continuum, a gradual fading from Masculine to Feminine, and there is nothing wrong with landing anywhere on that line. Your experience of gender is unique to you, no matter who you are.

Gender is about more than how you look. It also includes how you behave, your personal preferences, how you think, and how people interact with you. Those who land squarely on male or female have a difficult time understanding gender dysphoria, which makes things more difficult for those somewhere in between.

The feeling of being “born into the wrong body” is paralyzing. If you believe you are transgender, be real with yourself. Your experience will not match that of anyone else, and that is okay. Being transgender is uncommon, but not unique. Being YOU is unique.

A gender counselor’s job is to help you understand how that experience works for you. Whether your perceived gender is functioning well or poorly in your life, we can explore together what can be done to make it easier for you. Often times, the path to your comfort starts with hormone replacement therapy or surgery which requires a letter from a mental health professional. I can be that professional for you.

If you have questions about your gender, or if you know for sure you’re unhappy with the gender you have, please check the resources link in the sidebar for groups and publications that could be useful. And, of course, feel free to drop me a line.