Research shows that there are just over 1.3 million adults (0.6 percent of the population) who identify as transgender. However, many LGBTQ+ activists argue that sample surveys are often unreliable and that this figure may be closer to 3 percent.
Potential clients seeking mental health support should know the best practices for individual therapy with transgender adults. Read on for more information on what you need to know.
Best Practices for Individual Therapy with Transgender Adults
When it comes to adhering to the transgender therapy best practices, sensitivity and cultural competence are crucial. There are a few essential considerations to keep in mind.
Understanding Fluid Gender Expression
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), mental health clinicians understand that gender is a nonbinary construct that allows for a range of gender identities that may not inherently align with the assigned birth sex. This means understanding that many people define themselves beyond the labels of “man” or “woman.”
Instead, research continues to highlight how many individuals use a broad spectrum of gender identity and expression to define themselves. Best practices for individual therapy with transgender adults encourages and embraces unique expression. Until as late as the 1990s, many healthcare professionals subscribed to binary gender models.
However, the best types of therapy for transgender individuals are inclusive and nonconforming.
Understanding Sexual Orientation vs. Gender
Clinicians who utilize best practices for individual therapy for transgender adults understand the differences between sexual orientation and gender. Sexual orientation refers to someone’s sexual or emotional attraction towards another person. Gender, on the other hand, relates to self-expression and one’s inherent sense of identity. Gender identity tends to manifest as young as early toddlerhood.
Clinicians who follow best practices for individual therapy for transgender adults are interested and cognizant of their clients’ emotional development. They do not jump to conclusions or make associations based solely on the individual’s outward expression.
Understanding Cultural Biases, Discrimination, and Violence
Transgender people have been the victims of severe brutality and fatal violence. Clinicians who follow best practices for individual therapy for transgender adults recognize the inherent risk their clients face out in the community each day. They understand the role that discrimination and prejudice can play in affecting one’s relationships, academic and occupational functioning, housing, and overall quality of life.
Therapy provides a safe place to explore the ramifications of such inequality. Best practices for individual therapy for transgender adults entails maintaining a sense of both compassion and curiosity. Likewise, these clinicians are understanding and willing to process through their own biases and opinions while working with this population.
Understanding Transgender Expression Through The Lifespan
A transgender client may have unique needs and struggles throughout life. These difficulties may first surface during adolescence when the individual begins establishing a sense of identity and forming romantic relationships. It may progress through significant milestones like marriage, pregnancy and childrearing, career development, sickness, and old age.
Best practices for individual therapy for transgender adults includes providing support throughout difficult transitions. It also may consist of offering supportive referrals for outside resources as needed.
Final Thoughts
At Lumos Counseling PC, we integrate best practices for individual therapy for transgender adults. No matter your circumstances, we believe in providing a secure and nonjudgmental environment for you to explore, grow, and thrive.
Individual therapy that focuses on exploring your innermost thoughts and feelings is one of the best types of therapy for transgender adults. With individual therapy, no topic is off-limits. Are you ready to get started? Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.