need opinions on gender dysphoria?

If you're 17, may I assume you're still in high school? If so, I would suggest talking to one of the school's counselors about it. They're probably not trained in dealing with gender dysphoria but can probably help you set up a meeting with a psychiatrist who is. Unfortunately, your parents will probably need to know before you begin seeing a gender therapist. You should let them know that you have concerns that require (make sure to emphasize "require" and don't let them dismiss this as merely a phase) a psychiatrist's opinion. If I may also assume you live in the United States, being transgender is grounds for disqualification at the moment from any of the armed forces. Hopefully that will change in time, but as it stands, you would not be allowed to join the Air Force when you begin seeking treatment.

First you have to make the appointment. Then go to the appointment and sit down and say it. Write it down if you have to. This is the simple part.

The complex part is finding a worthy therapist. There are a lot of different credentials but you want someone who is qualified to work with GDD patients. I hope someone with a good resource URL will answer you on this. I've heard that there are some organizations that specialize in credentialing therapists for gender issues but I don't know them off the top of my head. I know with a little help you'll find the right one.

Baron's on the right track, particularly about school counselors. In fact, the only time I've ever had confidence breeches were by counselors employed by an educational institution.

Also, getting in touch with any sort of local GLBT resource (an email will work) to see if they know any trans friendly doctors in the area can help you out a bit.

The trick is when you approach your parents is to make sure they understand that this is something that needs to be discussed with professionals, and there is no shame in that. Certain situations parents just aren't equipped to deal with. Mine sure weren't, and there were more than a few mistakes made at the beginning of my own adventure, but I'm no worse for it. I'm a happy well adjusted guy thanks to the help of professionals who understood my needs.

Do NOT talk to your school counselor. They are under no legal obligation of confidentiality. This means that anything you tell them, they are allowed to repeat to whomever they want to. Furthermore, they are legally bound to talk to a number of different people if they feel you are endangering yourself. While those of us in this forum know that Gender Dysphoria, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Transsexualism, etc aren't dangerous, your school counselor may have a differing opinion.

You can explain to your parents that you'd like to see a Psychologist or Psychiatrist because you are having personal issues and that you feel professional help may be what you need. If you do so properly, your parents may even praise your maturity in bringing it to their attention.

Once you are seeing a Doctor, that doctor is bound by confidentiality laws. Those laws may or may not include clauses that keep the Doctor from speaking to your parents. You'll want to ask about that in your first meeting.

I wish you the very best of luck.

I can't tell you what gender you are, and while a psychologist will help, they won't know for sure either. If you identify with the gender opposite of your own you will eventually know, and probably deep down you always have. People who struggle with gender identity often try to convince themselves that they aren't, but eventually issues will surface. Are you having any problems (besides worrying) with your gender?

Also, there is a group of people who identify themselves as "gender queer". These people don't feel that they are male or female, and don't identify with either sex.

Regardless, you should base your life on your own feelings and not on your parents. You need to accept yourself, and hopefully they will come to terms with accepting you. If you really feel that it's urgent that you talk to a psycologist (and you need help from you parents), tell them that. You don't have to tell them what about, just tell them that you are struggling with things you can't talk to them about, and that it is really making you upset. Hopefully, your parents will have the will and means to help you out without prying too much.

You should talk to a GENDER therapist. An ordinary psychologist will probably not be able to advise you properly. Here is a list of therapists

http://www.drbecky.com/therapists.html

You already know that these feelings aren't going to go away. Someday, your parents are going to be gone, and you will regret all the years that you let that excuse prevent you from doing what is best for you. It's YOUR life, not your parents. Live it.

If you are under eighteen you need to speak to your parents first because you will need their approval to see a gender therapist.

If you are over eighteen or you get parental approval use the link that Erica provided for you, so you can find a therapist close to where you live.

i'm sorry, honey...that you can't talk to your parents about it. that's a tragedy...but it's a common tragedy. you are right...you really need to talk with a professional about it. maybe a school counselor can help. of, if you can find an lgtb support group in your town, they might be able to help.

if your church is affirming, your pastor might be a good resource...if not, look for a church that is affirming and seek guidance there.

anyway, if you want to talk to an older transsexual...just email me at pennyjane4@yahoo.com. i will be glad to be your friend and offer all the help i can.

much love and hope. pj

edit: ignore bigots like nola...he is so obsessed with transsexualism he can't think of anything else....hating us is all the poor, pathetic, little thing has to hang on to in his empty life. it's sad, but...you can't help him so...just ignore him.

there are different degrees of gender dysphoria

most never consider hormones or surgery

all you need to do is remove your clothing and look at yourself to see what gender you are and what gender you're supposed to be ..... you are who you are..... cutting something off will not make you anyone other than who you are at this very moment