| Transgender counseling can be essential to having | | | | transgender and gender identity disorder, which |
| a normal, well-adjusted life, regardless of whether | | | | seem similar but are very different. In addition, |
| you are considering a full transition. Because | | | | transgender therapy is not meant to cure you, |
| transgender is a much-misunderstood term, | | | | and counselors should not be trying to fix you or |
| transgendered individuals often find themselves | | | | pass judgment. |
| objects of speculation and ridicule. | | | | Instead, a good counselor will help you learn to |
| In addition, the road to self-acceptance and | | | | understand and appreciate who you are, as well |
| understanding can be a difficult and even | | | | as helping you to understand all of the options |
| bewildering experience for many transgendered | | | | available to you. Transgender counselors should |
| individuals. Unfortunately, not every counselor who | | | | offer couples and family counseling, too, in order |
| claims to work with the transgendered population | | | | to help everyone around you learn to accept you |
| actually provides help, making it necessary to | | | | and deal with the issues that are bound to arise. |
| know what to look for when choosing a therapist. | | | | They will also offer referrals to, or help in locating |
| Transgender therapy is not simply an extension | | | | medical, legal and financial assistance. Counselors |
| of basic counseling, although there are counselors | | | | will also help you connect to transgender groups |
| who claim to serve the transgendered population | | | | that support transgender individuals and families |
| and work under that assumption. There are | | | | through shared experiences. |
| similarities between transgender counseling and | | | | The ultimate goal of transgender counseling is to |
| other basic types of therapy, however. | | | | help the transgendered individual accept their |
| Both should offer a safe, secure, confidential place | | | | uniqueness, rather than hiding it away in shame or |
| to talk, allowing you to discuss your feelings, | | | | confusion. While it is easy for transgendered |
| thoughts and fears without reprisal, | | | | people to become isolated, often due to denial |
| embarrassment or having your words made | | | | and withdrawal, counselors can help you fully |
| public. In addition, counselors should be supportive, | | | | integrate in all areas of society, including the |
| helping you work toward self-awareness and | | | | home, workplace and places of worship. Although |
| self-acceptance, without being manipulative or | | | | there are counselors who will manipulate or in |
| abusive. | | | | some way abuse the transgendered client, |
| There are several specific things to look for, and | | | | knowing what to look for and what to avoid will |
| to expect, in transgender counseling. A good | | | | help you find the best counselor for you. |
| counselor will know the difference between | | | | |