A friend might listen, but it's unlikely they would take notes.

The counselor cares, but they are being paid to care so that makes the process completely neutral. All they know is what you tell them, and they have a responsibility to call BS so you're not likely to mislead them like you would a friend.

I needed some answers about my gender issues before I proceeded. I didn't need someone to tell me how I felt, I needed someone to put how I was feeling in perspective.