Finding a gender-exploratory therapist
Start by contacting TherapyFirst.org and Genspect.org; both keep referral lists of clinicians who will explore feelings without pushing medical transition. “There is a group called therapy first that specializes in gender exploration therapy… Therapyfirst.org” – ahinrichsen84 source [citation:2283f987-52d1-46a8-96d0-63f1bce97e4a]. You can also look at Dr. Az Hakeem’s work (drazhakeem.com) or Sasha Ayad’s site for models of exploratory care.
Use the free 15-30 minute consultation as a screening tool
State plainly that you want to understand why you feel distress and that you are not seeking affirmation of a trans identity. “When you book your 15 or 30 minute free phone consultation… state that your need is for detransition and trauma treatment… if they have any kind of conflict of interest they should inform you before moving forward.” – L82Desist source [citation:3a9022bc-18e3-463f-a80f-a4a0aa6505e5].
Ask two revealing questions
- “When do you think transition is justified?”
- “When do you think transition should be avoided?”
If the therapist can’t describe situations where transition is not the answer, you’ve found an affirming-only clinician. “If someone tells you it’s never to be avoided… you’ve found a trans activist leaning therapist.” – darthemofan source [citation:e46b2ca9-5fc7-43ec-a103-237c55848c7c].
Search outside the “LGBT-friendly” label
Many trauma-informed therapists (EMDR, somatic, internal-family-systems) will happily help you explore body dysphoria without steering you toward hormones or surgery. “Avoid the ones that advertise that they are ‘LGBT+ friendly’… Trauma therapists are a good start.” – L82Desist source [citation:3a9022bc-18e3-463f-a80f-a4a0aa6505e5].
Red flags that signal an affirming-only approach
- Clinic or biography uses the phrase “gender-affirming care.”
- Therapist follows the DSM-5 guideline that transition is the sole treatment for gender dysphoria.
- They cannot articulate cases where medical steps should be delayed or avoided.
- They specialize narrowly in “gender therapy” rather than broader trauma or body-dysphoria work.
Keep trying until the fit feels right
If the first call feels rushed, ideological, or dismissive of your wish to explore, thank them and ring the next number. The right therapist will welcome your questions, agree to explore root causes, and never make you feel rushed toward a medical path.