Towards a Collaborative Model for Transgender Health

Introduction

Numerous studies have reported on the insufficient numbers of professionals available who possess the skills needed to welcome and serve transgender (trans) and gender variant individuals.

Research confirms the impacts of minority stress on the mental health and well-being of transgender or gender variant children, youth and adults. Studies have identified the urgent need to support access to transition-related services when trans individuals decide they are ready to do so. The lack of resources in the healthcare system contributes significantly to the suffering associated with gender dysphoria. The most critical training and sensitization needs are in the health and social services. Trans lives remain misunderstood by professionals mandated to welcome and support these populations.

Duration of training

21 hours recognized by the Ordre des psychologues du Québec (OPQ) for continuing education credits

Objectives

1. Adapt one’s practice to respond to specific needs of transgender and gender variant adults and youth.
2. Assess gender-related needs and support transgender and gender variant individuals who wish to transition.
3. Begin to apply an informed consent perspective to transgender care.

DAY 1

1. Definitions and basic concepts
2. Gender identity:
   • The importance of developing cultural competence/humility
   • Historical and anthropological perspectives
   • Epidemiological Considerations
   • Administrative and legal considerations
3. Impact of minority stress and determinants of health

DAY 2

1. Assessment of gender dysphoria:
   • DSM-5 criteria
     • Differential Diagnosis
   • ICD Classification
2. Assessment of transition-related needs:
   • The WPATH Standards of Care (SoC v.7)
     • Social transition
     • Medical transition
     • Hormone therapy
     • Surgeries
   • Record keeping
3. Letters of support:
   • Hormone therapy
   • Surgeries
4. The role of the family physician

DAY 3

1. Facilitating access to care:
   • Creating trans-friendly environments
   • Accurately assessing the needs of transgender individuals
2. Adopting an”informed consent” approach:
   • Adapting the concept for mental health and psychosocial providers
   • Management of concomitant mental health diagnoses
3. Supporting transition:
   • Couples and families
   • Workplace
   • Preparing for treatments
   • Management of grief, expectations and regrets