Transgender Psychiatrists in Austin, TX

Photo of Jennifer Brock-Garcia, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, APRN
Jennifer Brock-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The issues particular to transgender and non-binary persons specifically, and all sexual minorities in general have been a special focus of my education and practice.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, up-to-date mental health care to my clients. This can range from prescribing medication, providing information about how to improve sleep or nutrition, or simply helping clients to understand how mental health issues happen, how they can affect our lives, and what options for treatment exist. Trauma, anxiety and depression (unipolar or bipolar) and hormonal issues (PMDD, menopause) are areas of specialty for me, as I have had significant experience treating these issues. Currently, I can see clients age 17 and over.
The issues particular to transgender and non-binary persons specifically, and all sexual minorities in general have been a special focus of my education and practice.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, up-to-date mental health care to my clients. This can range from prescribing medication, providing information about how to improve sleep or nutrition, or simply helping clients to understand how mental health issues happen, how they can affect our lives, and what options for treatment exist. Trauma, anxiety and depression (unipolar or bipolar) and hormonal issues (PMDD, menopause) are areas of specialty for me, as I have had significant experience treating these issues. Currently, I can see clients age 17 and over.
(512) 359-3575 View (512) 359-3575
Photo of Juliet Gatobu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Juliet Gatobu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Online Only
I specialize in managing a wide range of conditions, from mental health disorders such as anxiety, sleep disorders , depression, ADHD, IDD/Autism and gender dysphoria.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals seeking support and healing. My practice is rooted in the belief that mental wellness is achieved through a holistic approach, addressing the mind, body, and spirit.
I specialize in managing a wide range of conditions, from mental health disorders such as anxiety, sleep disorders , depression, ADHD, IDD/Autism and gender dysphoria.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals seeking support and healing. My practice is rooted in the belief that mental wellness is achieved through a holistic approach, addressing the mind, body, and spirit.
(726) 237-4668 View (726) 237-4668
Photo of Dr. Sylvia Udokoro Nwakanma | Mercie Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, FNP-C
Dr. Sylvia Udokoro Nwakanma | Mercie Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Have you ever wondered why your anxiety doesn't seem to be getting better? Everyone literally does not fit in the same box of medications. I take detailed history and come up with a treatment plan if needed to better meet your mental health needs. I just need you to trust the process. My comprehensive approach to patient care, which ! My name is Dr. Sylvia Udokoro Nwakanma. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I welcome all local and virtual patients to my wellness practice to address the real issue affecting your mental health and we can both address any challenges related to your mental.
Have you ever wondered why your anxiety doesn't seem to be getting better? Everyone literally does not fit in the same box of medications. I take detailed history and come up with a treatment plan if needed to better meet your mental health needs. I just need you to trust the process. My comprehensive approach to patient care, which ! My name is Dr. Sylvia Udokoro Nwakanma. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I welcome all local and virtual patients to my wellness practice to address the real issue affecting your mental health and we can both address any challenges related to your mental.
(832) 219-1410 View (832) 219-1410
Photo of Sabrina L Kones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSW
Sabrina L Kones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Accepting new patients. I offer care that is personalized, accessible, and collaborative. I strive to understand each patient’s treatment goals to develop a truly personalized ongoing plan of care. I specialize in medication management, mood and thought disorders, sleep disorders, anxiety disorders, dual diagnosis, crisis intervention, brief therapies, traumatic stress, LGBTQIA+, letters of readiness for gender-affirming care. I accept BCBS and Cigna PPO plans. Self pay prices are $300 for initial psychiatric assessment and $150 for medication management follow up.
Accepting new patients. I offer care that is personalized, accessible, and collaborative. I strive to understand each patient’s treatment goals to develop a truly personalized ongoing plan of care. I specialize in medication management, mood and thought disorders, sleep disorders, anxiety disorders, dual diagnosis, crisis intervention, brief therapies, traumatic stress, LGBTQIA+, letters of readiness for gender-affirming care. I accept BCBS and Cigna PPO plans. Self pay prices are $300 for initial psychiatric assessment and $150 for medication management follow up.
(512) 641-0943 View (512) 641-0943
Photo of Julie Yankowsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
(737) 937-6568 View (737) 937-6568
Photo of Tajuana Shuler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(833) 920-2540 View (833) 920-2540
Photo of Julie Yankowsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
(737) 344-4552 View (737) 344-4552
Photo of Oladunni Liyele, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Facing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. As a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly five years of experience, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where your story takes center stage. My journey began as a registered nurse in diverse settings, including neuro ICU and psychiatry, where I saw the deep impact of mental health and the barriers to care. I’m here to help uncover root causes, foster healing, and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.
Facing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. As a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly five years of experience, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where your story takes center stage. My journey began as a registered nurse in diverse settings, including neuro ICU and psychiatry, where I saw the deep impact of mental health and the barriers to care. I’m here to help uncover root causes, foster healing, and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.
(737) 520-7265 View (737) 520-7265
Photo of Julie Yankowsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
(737) 520-4692 View (737) 520-4692
Photo of Tajuana Shuler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(737) 637-3500 View (737) 637-3500
Photo of Julie Yankowsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
(737) 339-8355 View (737) 339-8355
Photo of Tajuana Shuler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(737) 227-0913 View (737) 227-0913
Photo of Julie Yankowsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
(737) 327-4838 View (737) 327-4838
Photo of Tajuana Shuler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(737) 383-1706 View (737) 383-1706
Photo of Charlotte Coates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
(737) 339-8386 View (737) 339-8386
Photo of Bridgett Gant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Bridgett Gant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, including work in ICU and acute care settings, I bring a holistic approach to mental health treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I create a warm, supportive space where your voice is truly heard, and your unique experiences are valued. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your struggles, move beyond symptom management, and build a path to lasting balance, resilience, and well-being.
(737) 278-7267 View (737) 278-7267
Photo of Julie Yankowsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Julie Yankowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. I’m Julie Yankowsky, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health journey. My holistic approach considers mental, physical, and social well-being. I prioritize active listening and creating a safe, validating space where your voice is heard. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Whether navigating life’s transitions or seeking support, I’m here to help you achieve greater well-being.
(512) 890-2102 View (512) 890-2102
Photo of Jibril Yakubu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jibril Yakubu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
(512) 572-9065 View (512) 572-9065
Photo of Tajuana Shuler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(512) 575-8876 View (512) 575-8876
Photo of Bridgett Gant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Bridgett Gant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Imagine facing the difficulties of life, whether it's battling anxiety, depression, or navigating a significant life change. My ideal client is someone seeking understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Imagine facing the difficulties of life, whether it's battling anxiety, depression, or navigating a significant life change. My ideal client is someone seeking understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
(512) 881-0146 View (512) 881-0146

See more therapy options for Austin

Transgender Psychiatrists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.