How Long Do You Have to See a Gender Therapist?

It’s normal to question whether your assigned gender at birth is in fact the “correct” one. Disclosing these feelings with close friends and family can be terrifying due to the current social stigma, let alone a complete stranger.

It’s important for you to know that your feelings are completely valid and that it’s okay to be scared. The path to finding a gender therapist and the expectations that come along with it can be a bit confusing at first, that’s why in this article we’re going to help explain the process to you so you can be prepared.

Questions such as when you should start searching for a gender therapist and how long do you have to see a gender therapist will all be answered for you here.

✔️ Helpful hint.

Here at ANZPath we highly recommend using Pride Counseling for LGBTQ+ Therapy Services. There you’ll be matched with the best gender therapist online that suits you.

It’s convenient, affordable and most of all, they have some of the most skilled gender therapists online.

Fill out this questionnaire at Pride Counseling to get matched with a therapist.

What is a Gender Therapist?

If you’re wondering how long do you have to see a gender therapist, it will be helpful to know what a gender therapist even is! A gender therapist is a mental health professional who specializes in working with clients feeling gender dysphoria, transgender clients, transitioning or clients looking to transition, or simply clients that are questioning their gender identity.

A gender therapist can help give you the language you need to explain your gender identity to other people if desired. Simply put, a gender therapist can offer guidance and an affirming space for you to ask questions on your journey to discovering your gender.

Additionally, they are specialized in understanding the transitioning process and can walk you through the process so that you are more prepared and less anxious for doctors visits.

When Should you Start Looking for a Gender Therapist?

There are a variety of reasons you should start seeking a gender therapist. If you’ve been questioning your assigned birth gender or exploring other options besides cisgender, a gender therapist will be of benefit to you. If you’re experiencing gender dysphoria and are uncomfortable with certain aspects of your body a gender therapist will offer you a safe space to talk about it and help you work through those feelings.

If you’ve already discovered your gender and are seeking gender reaffirming treatment therapy, a gender therapist can help you understand what the process will be like and refer you to medical specialists who specialize in hormone therapy, such as endocrinologists. Lastly, prior to contrary belief cisgender people will also benefit from gender therapy.

If you identify as cisgender, a gender therapist can help you feel a deeper sense of belonging to your gender and assist you in understanding why you choose to identify with your assigned gender at birth.

How Long Do You Have to See a Gender Therapist?

There are many factors that will cause variation in the amount of time you choose to see a gender therapist due to your own specific needs and circumstances.

Some people will only go to a few sessions, some for weeks, and some for years. It is generally recommended to go to at least 20-30 sessions for max benefit, around 6-7 months.

If you’re wishing to medically transition, current guidelines recommend that you spend at least 12 months on hormone therapy before undergoing gender reassignment surgery so you may be required to see a gender therapist for longer.

If you’re simply going to a gender therapist to understand more about your gender, or are struggling with gender dysphoria, you can choose to go for however long you desire to the best of your ability.