University councelors/therapists.

[kaylyn]

My university has therapist/counselors who they claim can help in gender issues along with a few other things that are troubling in life. Seeing as I can't afford an actual therapy session I want to give them a try. Do y'all think this is a good idea or a bad one. I'm also curious if anyone here has used their university counselor/therapist and how was the experience.

[AllieSF]

Yes, definitely give them a try. I would guess that they are not specialists with LGBT therapy issues but have enough general and probably a little LGBT experience to at least get you going on the right path. They probably also have contacts with private practitioners who also can be a great help.

PS: Yippee! My 8,100 post. Maybe I have been to too long and visit here too much?

[princessheather86]

Hi again, Kaylyn. ^_^

It's certainly worth a try. In my own case, I tried seeing a university counsellor, but the ones provided by my uni were not qualified to offer referrals or do anything official other than provide someone to talk to, so I had to find a medical clinic myself. It maybe different where you live, though, I am not sure.

You should certainly speak to one if they claim to be able to help with gender issues, though.

[Dawn cd]

Some universities rooted in a conservative evangelical worldview may still believe they can "cure" people with sexual and gender issues. If yours in one of these, I would be wary of their claims. Sure, give it a try, but keep your eyes open.

[kimdl93]

It's a very good idea. Just remember, therapists aren't there to think for you. They are there to help you clarify your own thinking.

[CONSUELO]

Yes, definitely give them a try. I would guess that they are not specialists with LGBT therapy issues but have enough general and probably a little LGBT experience to at least get you going on the right path. They probably also have contacts with private practitioners who also can be a great help.

I agree with Allie, they may provide a pathway to more experienced and knowledgeable help. In my experience, few counsellors have the knowledge to properly help. One counsellor I dealt with, who was also the founder of the firm of counsellors, told me that she found many of her colleagues did not even feel comfortable dealing with cross dressing and gender issues. Two psychiatrists with whom I had brief dealings made me feel as if I had a moral disease. I was so appalled at their professional ignorance that I dumped them quickly.

[Barbara Ella]

More Universities are broadening their approach/understanding of Trans issues, and getting more serious about the total LGBT spectrum. I would hope you have contacted any resource center your University may have and talked with them about your issue and gotten specific feedback on the therapists. My University has a trans support group for students that is quite active, from what I am told. I would consider joining one if one is available. By all means talk with someone and see a therapist.

Barbara

[Trinity Sue]

My Doctor gave me information to the Umass Amherst The Stone Wall Center. It has everything about Transgender needs and wants . Doctors, Therapists Counselors . and other specialists

[Bryn]

I've been talking to one for a year or so for various reasons. I found it helpful.

When I brought up gender issues she was excited that I was willing to share such thoughts with her but wasn't able to offer a lot of advice. She told me about a transgender group that meets in the counseling center and gave me a list of therapists near my home. Also gave me a packet with a bunch of local LGBT groups and places that do electrolysis etc. Next year I'll be able to meet with the lady who runs the group for therapy/counseling.

Keep in mind I go to a fairly large university. I don't know how yours is, but based on my experience I'd say it's worth a shot. Even if they're not able to help you themselves they might point you in the right direction.

[mikiSJ]

If you are concerned that they will divulge your secrets - they should be bound by their professional ethics. I would want to get an understanding of their credentials and what is their privacy policy.

Additionally, college/university records are private information. If you trust the school, then you trust the school. The following link outlines student privacy rights.
http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html