For several years, in a previous role within a large medical center in San Francisco, I provided mental health care as a gender specialist. My work focused on providing psychotherapy to patients presenting with goals to further explore and clarify their evolving gender identity and coinciding gender expression. This often meant supporting folks through processes of identity development and clarification as well as social transition.

In addition, I was the identified specialist pediatric patients and their families would be referred to, to learn more about gender affirming medical interventions (e.g. hormone replacement therapy (HRT), gender-affirming surgical options, and more). Following proper and thorough education, I would engage patients and families who wished to proceed with medical intervention in a comprehensive assessment process to evaluate patient readiness and eligibility for the desired treatment. Upon approval, I would refer patients to the appropriate medical staff to pursue treatment. Once treatment was initiated, I tracked patients’ progress and well-being while transitioning in ongoing therapy.

Most gender-affirming medical interventions still necessitate assessment and approval from a licensed mental health professional. If this is something you or your child is seeking support and guidance around, please reach out.