Creative Commons License

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.

ORCID

http ://orcid.org/ 0000-0003-3767-8643.

Date of Graduation

5-12-2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Educational Specialist (EdS)

Department

Department of Graduate Psychology

Advisor(s)

A. Renee Staton

Amanda Evans

Magali Laitem

Michele Kielty

Abstract

Cultural competence from mental healthcare professionals is vital to effectively serving the transgender population. Unfortunately, specifics for working with this community often remain unaddressed in most counselor education programs. Working with gender diverse individuals requires a nuanced understanding and application of contemporary theories surrounding gender, sex, intersectional theories, and potential medical consultation. Counselors may be asked to play unique roles for transgender clients that require knowledge of basic concepts and definitions regarding transgender identity and the ways in which these topics become relevant in the clinical, counseling environment. It is also necessary to question roles that mental health counselors may be asked to undertake by external entities and organizations when working with transgender individuals.

This research paper is designed to explore basic concepts and definitions regarding transgender identity and the ways in which they are relevant in the clinical, counseling space. It outlines common mistakes made by mental health professionals when working with transgender clients and presents one role that mental health counselors may be asked to undertake when working with transgender individuals. In addition, the paper problematizes current and past approaches to this role, outlines the use of informed consent, and explores ethical questions that may arise. Recommendations for further exploration and research are included.

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