GENDER DYSPHORIA
Not all transgender persons have gender dysphoria.
Transgender is an umbrella term that encompasses many identities (e.g., male-to-female, female-to male, cross dresser, cisgender, gender fluid), all of which challenge conventional/traditional gender expectations. Many persons who are transgender do not experience distress/discomfort related to their identity/experience. For transgender persons who do experience distress/discomfort, gender dysphoria may be present.
Gender dysphoria is complex.
Among adults, gender dysphoria is related to a strong and persistent belief that there is an incongruence between their experienced/expressed gender and their sex characteristics, and/or that they have the typical feelings/reactions of the other gender. These beliefs are accompanied by strong and persistent desires as well. These desires can include: wanting to be the other gender, wanting to be treated as the other gender by others, and wanting to have sex characteristics of the other gender rather than one’s own. (Due to developmental differences, children and adolescents experience gender dysphoria differently than adults.)
Gender transition is a process of affirmation.
There are three primary paths of gender transition. For some, the exploration and pursuit of one path is desirable. Whereas for others, two or more paths is the preferred choice.
The journey on each path, to include experienced rewards and challenges, is unique to each person:
- Psychological transition: Involves experiences such as exploring beliefs about gender in general, examining one’s own gender identity, and/or processing loss related to gender transition
- Social transition: Involves experiences such as coming out, presenting as one’s identified gender, and/or changing legal documents to be consistent with one’s gender identity
- Medical transition: Involves experiences such as hormone therapy, hair removal, speech therapy, and/or gender affirming surgeries
We can develop a road map with you so that you can move forward.
Counseling and therapy at Wellness Grove…
Our in-person (outpatient) counseling services are offered in Canton OH (near Akron, North Canton, and Massillon). We also offer telemental health sessions to all Ohio residents.
Wellness Grove
