Looking for advice

[CD Gary]

Im a long time listener, first time poster.
Im a male, 29, crossdressing since a young age. It has always been sexual for me and I never thought I would want to transition, But lately it has been consuming my thoughts. I've never felt like Im a woman in a mans body, but to echo something else I read on this board, I would love to be a woman full time, the sights, smell, wearing the clothes, etc.
I want to find a psychologist to talk to, Im looking for advice on how to go about finding a good gender psychologist. I also feel that I have some insecurity issues that I need to resolve. Maybe the two issues go hand in hand? (for me)
I cant find any specific listings for gender psycologists, should I call other psycologists for reference or perhaps someone can refer me to one in my area.

Also another question, What do other people use for a receding hair line? I believe rogane can be used without a prescription, but are there better products?

[RylieCD]

Gary,
I had a difficult time finding a DR as well. There are a few TG web sites out there that have comprised lists of good gender psychologists, I forget what they are. Also if you are randomly calling practices in your area and they say the treat for gender issues make sure you do additional research by asking how many paitients they have seen with TG issues before. I met wit a DR once whom only had one other paitent, needless to say she made me feel like a research case.

Good luck
Rylie

[tamarav]

Dear Gary,
The fact that you even recognize that getting professional help is necessary shows that you have a good sense of self and will probably benefit very well from help.

You might try calling local women's health clinics and women's center, possibly at local universities and ask about gender counseling. Check local endocrinologists also since they will be treating you with the necessary drugs if indeed you wish to transition. They may also be able to recommend a gender counselor since they are referrals for the counselors.

Try calling the Ingersoll Center in Seattle and ask if they can refer you to a local counselor. Their staff is typically TG and they are very helpful.

Depending in the seriousness level you are at now, you may think of moving to a more supportive area and starting a new life as a female. At your young age time is on your side.

Being female is an inner experience but is manifiested by an outward appearance in most cases. If you are looking for a totally passable appearance, start now with as much practice and exposure as possible to build up your practice time until you are comfortable.

My heart goes out to you, this is a wonderful journey but can be difficult for some to complete. Don't worry about the outcome, you are female already emotionally if you have the desire to transition. Just take care of the other issues that go along with it.

Let us know how you are doing.

Your sis,

Tami

[CD Gary]

Thanks for the responses and support.

I sent an email to the Ingersoll Center asking about referrals.
I should also check the links stickied on the board. I started doing that last night, but ended up spending hours on Melanie Phillips website.

The fact that you even recognize that getting professional help is necessary shows that you have a good sense of self and will probably benefit very well from help.
Thank you. This is something I want to figure out. I don't want to jump into a relationship (currently single) while having gender issues. I don't want to offend anyone who is married/committed already and going through a tough time, on the contrary, having read a lot of that inspires me to try to figure things out early.

My heart goes out to you, this is a wonderful journey but can be difficult for some to complete. Don't worry about the outcome, you are female already emotionally if you have the desire to transition. Just take care of the other issues that go along with it.
The thoughts of living full time are definitely making me nervous!

[geri]

cd gary,

where are you located? if you are in the chicago area, i know of a real good one.
just let me know,

hugs,
geri

[CD Gary]

Thanks for the reply.
I'm in the Minneapolis area

[CD Gary]

I found a website with resource listings by states.
http://www.gender.org/resources/index.html

[carolinoakland]

I am blessed to live in the Mecca of Trans I think. There are many wonderfull therapist's as well. I found a national threapist list that was very helpfull at www.lauras-playground.com . I also noticed that several would do online counsleing or phone sessions. I can't remember the name but there was also an online group as well. Hope this helps. I would recommend Anne Vittale's site, as an information source alone it was like finding the Rosetta Stone. Taking the first steps you will find yourself excited and empowered that you're doin something about these feelings inside. I know I do, Carol

[Steph Butterfield]

Hi Gary,

I googled these so not sure if they still exist.

The Sunshine Club

http://www.thesunshineclub.org/index-2.html

The Tiffany Club

http://www.tcne.org/

Innvestments

http://www.innvestments.org/Innvhome.html

Transadvocate

http://transadvocate.com/

Boston Gay and Lesbian Adolescent Social Services (GLASS) Center: A Back Bay drop-in center for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning young people between the ages of 13 and 25.
39 Massachusetts Ave, 3rd floor, Boston

http://www.bostonglass.org/

BAGLY: The Boston Alliance of Gay Lesbian Bisexual and Transgender Youth (BAGLY) provides weekly and monthly social activities and special events for people ages 22 and under

http://www.bagly.org/


Hope they may be of use to you.

xx

Stephanie