Gender Identity & Exploration
Figuring out who you are can be exciting, confusing, lonely, or all three at once. Whether you're just starting to ask questions, in the middle of a fuller exploration, or navigating a transition, you don't have to do it alone.
What is gender identity and exploration?
I provide a safe, affirming and culturally safe space for trans, Two-Spirit, non-binary, and other gender diverse people. My role isn't to lead you toward any particular outcome, rather, to help you slow down, get curious, and hear your own thoughts more clearly without the noise of what family, friends, or the world expects you to do. Some clients come in questioning, while some already know who they are and need support navigating disclosure, relationships, systems, or medical steps. Both are welcome here.
Who this is for
Whether you're just starting to notice something feels different, deep in exploration, or already clear on who you are and navigating what comes next, I'm here to meet you where you are. This work is for anyone across the spectrum of gender identity and expression, including if you don't have a label that fits yet, as well as for anyone seeking a hormone or surgical readiness assessment. You don't need the right words, a firm conclusion, or a crisis to justify reaching out. Curiosity is enough.
What we can work on together
I am happy to provide a space to explore such areas of gender exploration as:
Making sense of feelings around gender that don't have easy words yet
Deciding if, when, and how to come out to the people in your life
Navigating family reactions, relationship changes, or workplace dynamics
Working through grief, anger, or anxiety tied to past experiences of not being seen or accepted
Building resilience against discrimination or minority stress
Simply having a steady, affirming presence while you figure things out
Hormone and Surgical Readiness Assessments
If you're seeking a referral for hormone therapy or gender-affirming surgery, I can complete these assessments as part of our work together. I have been an approved hormone and surgical readiness assessor with Trans Care BC since 2019. I am happy to provide assessments for both adults and children or youth aged 15 or older.
Assessment typically involves a series of sessions to understand your history, readiness, and support systems, culminating in completing the written assessment that meets Trans Care BC's requirements for referral. You might already be connected with medical professionals who can prescribe hormones, if not, I can help you get connected with the appropriate clinicians.
A trauma-informed, affirming approach
Many people exploring gender have also navigated experiences of harm such as being dismissed, misgendered, or unsafe in spaces that should have supported them. My practice is trauma-informed, which means we move at a pace that feels safe to you, and I won't ask you to justify who you are in order to receive care.
Common questions
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No referral is needed to begin therapy or start the conversation about a readiness assessment. If you're specifically seeking a hormone or surgical readiness assessment, you are welcome to book online as soon as you’re ready.
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This varies by person. Some clients come to me as a final step in their journey and need just one or two sessions, others benefit from more time to explore readiness fully.
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Yes, I am happy to provide readiness assessments for children and youth aged 15 or older. Occasionally I may be able to provide assessment for younger children who are deemed a mature minor and have parental support. If your child is under 15 and seeking a readiness assessment, please get in touch to discuss further.
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Yes, a parent or guardian must attend at least a portion of the readiness assessment with the child or youth.
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Yes, but only for orchiectomy or hysterectomy/salpingo-oopherectomy. As of February 2023, assessments for genital surgery are limited to medical providers with training aligned with the WPATH Standards of Care 8: NPs, MDs, and RNs. This change applies only to genital surgeries. If you are unsure, please contact me before booking.