Felt better

[lynnstar]

Yesterday I went to the doctors at our local VA clinic. After they finished asking question about my health, both physical and mental, they assured me I was in good shape. However, I brought up the fact that I crossdress and if that was a concern? Both the nurse and PA said it was not and doing so was perfectly ok. They told me that that was a part of me and to be myself. I then asked if it was ok with them if I come in for any exams dressed ( I was referring to under dressed) and again i was told that was fine. I spent over 2 hours there and they made me feel good about myself and my crossdressing. They asked if I wanted to see a therapist? I told yes! I figure it would help, plus my wife is totally against c rossdressing. I have tried in the past to explain to her how I felt about it, she even told me I needed to go see a therapist because of it. So maybe I can get her to go with me when I do. I am hoping if this happens, that maybe she will be, at least , a bit more understanding. Even if after some visits, she still won't fully accept it, she will allow me to at least to underdress. Even now I can't do that around her. I am hoping after WE have a visit or two with the therapist, that, at least will change.

[kimdl93]

Therapy is a good option if CdIng has caused conflict in your relationship. Go with the mind set of seeking to reduce conflict...not to change minds!

[docrobbysherry]

"Getting permission to dress", is something a therapist mite help u with. Because they mite help your SO appreciate how important is to u!
But, the honus is on u to get her to go with u to appointments! Good luck with that!:straightface:

[Elizabeth G]

Hi Lynn,

It's good you are healthy. I recently visited my doctor underdressed for the first time and explained I am a crossdresser and she was totally professional and really great about it which is exactly what I expected.

As for therapy, I'm all for it. My wife and I have been attending jointly for a while and it has been really beneficial. She found out about my crossdressing after we married (long story) and therapy has been very helpful with respect to her coming to terms with it. The only recommendation i can make is the obvious, to search for a therapist who specializes in gender.

Actually I'm going to add to this. Try to feel out the therapist at first. The last thing you want is to find out your in with a conversion therapist who is going to try to "cure" you of your crossdressing.

Elizabeth

[Stephanie47]

I don't believe you are going to encounter "conversion therapy" within the VA system. "Conversion therapy" seems to revolve around some religious issues of non acceptance of gays, lesbians and transsexuals. In 2012 the Office of Patient Care Services established an LGBT Health Program. Check out the VA health care website.

[Beverley Sims]

All the best I think you have taken the right steps.