Gender and gender identity can be complex concepts that have a profound impact on people’s lives and overall health. Societal expectations of gender can feel constraining, and experiences with homophobia, transphobia, and heterosexism can take a toll. These experiences might be more common for those who identify with genders outside of the traditional gender binary or those whose gender expression conflicts with people's expectations.
Gender-affirming therapists can be a source of support for anyone questioning their gender or experiencing mental health challenges related to gender expectations. From connecting clients to support groups to helping a person navigate the process of changing their legal name, a gender-affirming mental health professional can make a significant difference in the lives of those they treat.
Gender is often used as an umbrella term to encompass a wide variety of concepts.
It can be important to note that, at its core, gender is a social construct. That is, it’s an idea that society has developed to make sense of our communities and the ways we relate to each other.
It differs from sex, which refers to the physical, genetic, and hormonal characteristics that can differentiate between bodies with male aspects and bodies with female aspects.
The word “gender” typically alludes to one of two concepts: gender identity or gender expression. According to the American Psychiatric Association, gender identity refers to a person’s internal sense of their gender. Gender identity does not always match the sex a person is assigned at birth.
Examples of different gender identities include:
Man
Woman
Cisgender
Transgender
Nonbinary
Gender nonconforming
Pangender
Agender
Genderfluid
Two-spirit
Third gender
Androgyne
Neutrois
Many of the terms above are umbrella terms themselves, meaning a person could identify as a transgender woman, a cisgender man, a nonbinary two-spirit person, etc. Gender identity can be fluid and shift over time, but it cannot be changed through processes such as conversion therapy, which research consistently demonstrates does more harm than good by falsely suggesting gender transition is indicative of mental illness.
Gender expression is separate from gender identity but can be an integral part of someone’s sense of self. The expression refers to the ways a person outwardly manifests their gender. Most elements of this expression are simply forms of human expression, but because of societal roles, some types of expression may be viewed as more masculine or feminine.
Examples of (gender) expression include:
Clothing choices
Hairstyle
Makeup (or lack thereof)
Mannerisms
Speech
Pronouns
Chosen name
A person’s gender expression may or may not match societal expectations of their internal gender identity. Sometimes, people may not feel safe or comfortable expressing a gender that matches their gender identity, particularly if such expression would conflict with the identity most people assume they have. In other situations, gender expression may not match what is expected of a particular gender identity due to individual preferences.
It can be important to note that all forms of gender expression and gender identity are valid. How you choose to wear your hair, for example, or what clothes you decide to put on in the morning should not define or constrain who you are.
What is gender identity counseling?
Getty/AnnaStills
Gender identity therapy is a form of affirmative therapy. Affirmative therapy is based on the philosophy that people don’t need to change any fundamental aspect of who they are, and that every identity is valid and should be celebrated. Gender identity therapists are mental health professionals with specific training related to the challenges that may be experienced by people questioning their gender or whose gender identity or expression conflicts with societal expectations.
Examples of situations where people may benefit from seeing a gender therapist include:
Feeling uncomfortable with aspects of your gender or your body
Feeling constrained by traditional societal expectations of gender roles and gender stereotypes
Wanting to develop a deeper connection to your body and/or your sense of self
Experiencing gender dysphoria, which is defined as the feeling that your gender identity conflicts with the sex you were assigned at birth (Gender dysphoria is not a mental health condition in and of itself, but it can have mental health challenges associated with it that gender therapy can help address.)
Supporting a loved one who is exploring their gender
Expanding your own understanding of gender identity
Seeking gender-affirming medical interventions
It is not necessary to identify with any particular gender identity to benefit from seeing a gender specialist. Gender identity counselors may be able to refer clients to other healthcare providers who can provide specific support related to gender identity such as physicians trained in serving the physical health needs of people who may be seeking gender-affirming health care, for example. Such care may include hormone treatments, puberty blockers, and surgical intervention.
It can be a complicated process to find a gender-affirming therapist. The World Professional Association for Transgender Health has a provider search feature where you may search for healthcare providers specifically trained in these matters.
You may encounter challenges while searching for a therapist trained in identity and expression. If you live in a rural area, the closest provider may still be located too far away for you to get sessions with them, for instance. In these situations, online therapy may be a viable alternative. Even if support is available to you in person, the ability to join sessions from home via an internet connection can make it easier to consistently get care without navigating costly commutes to and from appointments.
Research shows that online gender-affirming therapy may be just as effective as traditional in-person therapeutic methods. One medical journal study found that people identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community who participated in an online therapy program reported lower levels of mental health symptoms and higher confidence in their ability to develop and execute healthy coping skills. No matter the format, seeking professional and social support can help you navigate your journey toward finding an identity that feels right.
Takeaway
Gender affirming counseling may be beneficial to anyone interested in learning more about themselves and their gender. It may be especially helpful for those who either identify with a gender identity outside of the traditional gender binary or may be questioning their gender identity. Getting outside support, learning more about gender, and finding ways to connect with others can help you navigate these questions with minimal stress. Connect with an online therapist who specializes in gender-affirming therapy via BetterHelp today.
The information on this page is not intended to be a substitution for diagnosis, treatment, or informed professional advice. You should not take any action or avoid taking any action without consulting with a qualified mental health professional. For more information, please read our terms of use.
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