Gender Therapy
If you are feeling uncomfortable about the physical characteristics of your assigned gender, you’re not alone. Especially if you feel a strong identification with another gender, along with the desire to live life as as that gender, you may be experiencing Gender Dysphoria.
CPH provides gender counseling for children, adolescents, adults, and their families. We follow the Standards of Care (SOC) 8th edition, as outlined by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) so you can ensure you’re getting the most informed help in Western New York.
CPH therapists have extensive training in providing gender therapy, assessment, and treatment for children, adolescents, adults, and their families. When you or your child, are struggling with gender identity you need a therapist who understands the complexity of the situation.
Unlike general therapists, a gender specialist will be able to inform you of the benefits and risks of your decisions and will be able to make referrals to reputable resources and physicians. Gender therapists can help a person understand, manage, and minimize dysphoria or other feelings of discomfort related to identity and expression.
What is Gender Counseling?
Gender therapy focuses on the social, mental, emotional, and physical needs of those who are:
-questioning gender identity
-exploring gender expression
-uncomfortable with aspects of their gender identity or body image
-don’t exclusively identify with their designated sex at birth
-are confused completely about their gender identity
How can therapy be helpful?
It can be helpful for anyone who may be struggling with gender roles or stereotypes.
For those who want to develop a deeper understanding of who they are and want to develop a deeper connection to their body.
For families struggling to understand a recent "coming out".
It is a safe place for children, adolescents, and adults to explore their gender identity by talking to a qualified specialist who understands the complexities of gender.
Who are gender therapists?
Gender therapists seek out continuing education, training, and professional consultation to learn more about: gender identity, gender diversity, including nonbinary identities, gender dysphoria, medical and nonmedical gender-affirming interventions, transgender rights, navigating gender in all aspects of life, and relevant research on these topics.
Everyone’s needs are different, so gender therapy is tailored to each individual and family.
Services we provide to our patients
- A safe place to explore and talk about your feelings
- Individual Counseling
- Family Counseling
- Recommendation letters for Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and puberty blockers
- Recommendation letters for Gender Affirming Surgeries (GAS)
- Referrals for name and gender marker changes
- FREE Support groups for all patients
- Individual and Family Advocacy
- Education and Support Groups
