How to Start Becoming a More Transgender Inclusive and Gender-Affirming Therapist
The out transgender and gender non-binary (TGNB) populations are among the fastest-growing populations in the United States. Research conducted by the Williams Institute of Law shows that 1.4 million people identify as transgender. Similarly, GLAAD’s Accelerating Acceptance 2017 Survey shows that at least 17% of the millennial population identifies as transgender or non-binary.
According to the American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics, we are responsible to respect the dignity and promote the wellness of our clients. What does this mean for therapists when working with TGNB clients? This means that we must make it a priority to have at least a baseline understanding of what it means to be TGNB and an understanding of how we can support their well-being. As with most marginalized communities, the TGNB community is often discriminated against, mistreated, misunderstood, and faces psychological trauma as a result. In light of this, what can we do to be trans-inclusive and gender-affirming therapists?
One of the most important actions we can take as therapists is to educate ourselves. To begin, consider taking the transgender implicit bias test offered at no cost through Havard University’s Project Implicit. This can bring awareness of biases you have against the transgender community and prompt you to start a self-reflection on those biases. Seek out training that supports and affirms TGNB individuals such as the Mental Health Collection of Training offered by the Transgender Training Institute. Be curious about experiences that are different from yours by researching the internet, media, and local LGBTQ+ community centers that positively showcase the narratives of TGNB individuals. Attend local LGBTQ+ events, network with other therapists that specialize in TGNB populations, and as always, seek supervision.
When working with TGNB clients, ask them what pronouns they use and what name they go by (I recommend this with all clients). Additionally, use gender-neutral terms. For example, instead of husband or wife, use spouse or partner. Instead of brother or sister, use sibling. Use people, folks, or friends instead of guys. These little things can go a long way in enhancing your counseling relationship.
Because we recognize that it is not the responsibility of our TGNB clients to educate us, there may come a time when we do not understand some of the nuanced and ever-changing terminologies that are common in the TGNB community. When this happens (as it likely will), it is ok to ask for clarification. It is more important to ask and learn than risk missing out on an important piece of information. If appropriate, do your research out of session to further your understanding.
If you make a mistake such as using the wrong gender, or using their “deadname” (opportunity to learn something here), acknowledge and apologize for the wrong and make no excuses! Ask your client to correct you in the future while recognizing that ultimately it is your responsibility and ethical commitment to do no harm.
Lastly (for now), do not allow the client’s identity as TGNB to be the focus of your counseling relationship, as this may not be the reason they are seeking therapy. Let the client guide how much gender will be the focus of therapy while keeping in mind how gender impacts their day-to-day experiences.
LifeSpring Offers LGBTQIA+ Affirming Services in Maryland
LifeSpring Counseling Services in Maryland is an online counseling service for adults throughout the state of Maryland that offers LGBTQIA+ affirming services. We work with Maryland clients to help them address anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, self-identity and self-esteem, life transitions, and communication skills and boundary setting. Work with one of our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists today, by reading more about them here.
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The counselors and social workers at our Maryland office also offer counseling services for trauma, grief and loss, boundary setting, communication skills, and difficult life transitions. We also offer specialized counseling services including Brainspotting and spiritually-integrated counseling. Because we are located next to several local universities, we also work with college students and international students.
Written by: Irene Burks, LGPC
Irene Burks is a retired police officer. She has an extensive background in providing training on LGBTQIA+ issues to law enforcement professionals on the Federal, State, and Local levels. Her article, Building Relationships with Transgender Individuals, was published in 2014 in the International Chiefs of Police Magazine.
Photo Credit: Lisett Kruusimäe, Anna Shvets, Polina Kovaleva, & Mark Tacatani
Date of download: 11/18/2022
