If you’re interested in pursuing medical transition (hormone treatment or surgical procedures), you may need to complete a mental health assessment to confirm your readiness to embark on this part of your adventure.
We're here to walk you through what to expect, so you can approach your assessment with confidence and clarity.
Why do I need an assessment?
First things first: let's talk about what this assessment is for. It's not a test you need to pass, nor is it about questioning your identity. Instead, it's a supportive space where you can discuss your feelings, experiences, and goals related to your gender identity. The primary aim is to understand your needs and how best to support you in your journey.
How do I schedule an assessment?
If you’re in Oregon, call Full Spectrum and we can help you find a clinician who takes your insurance. Finding a mental health professional who is experienced in gender-affirming care is crucial. The doctor or surgeon you’re working with may refer you to someone, and they can let you know what the final assessment letter should include. If they don’t have a referral for you and you’re not in Oregon, look for someone who is qualified, empathetic, and understanding of transgender and gender-diverse experiences. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist, or a licensed counselor familiar with gender identity issues.
How should I prepare?
Before your appointment, it might help to jot down some points you want to discuss. This could include your gender identity journey, any challenges you're currently facing, and what you hope to achieve through your medical transition. Remember: there's no right or wrong way to feel or express your gender.
What will the assessment be like?
Expect open-ended questions about your life, feelings, relationships, and experiences with gender. This might include questions about when you first became aware of your gender identity, how you experience gender dysphoria (if you do), and your support system. The aim is to build a comprehensive picture of your mental health in relation to your gender identity.
This is also a good time to discuss your transition goals. Your mental health professional can provide information about the process and what to expect, and they can help you weigh the pros and cons in the context of your own life and health.
Is the assessment confidential?
It's important to feel comfortable and safe during your assessment. Everything you discuss in your assessment session or sessions is confidential, unless you mention that you or someone else is in serious danger. If at any point you feel uncomfortable or misunderstood, it's okay to speak up or even seek a different professional.
What comes after the assessment?
If your mental health professional feels you are a suitable candidate for medical transition, they will write a letter of support. There are some cases in which they may want to work with you to get additional systems in place before writing the letter (for example, if you don’t have a plan for medical support after a major surgery or if you need help reducing or stopping drug use). There are also rare cases where they may not feel comfortable writing a letter of support at all, such as if an individual is still exploring or uncertain about their gender identity, or isn’t of consenting age or maturity to make informed decisions about gender-affirming treatments.
Your mental health professional might offer recommendations or referrals for further support, which could include therapy, support groups, or medical professionals for hormone therapy or surgery.
Conclusion
Going through a gender-affirming mental health assessment is a significant step in many people's journeys. It's a process that's meant to support and affirm you, helping pave the way for whatever steps you choose to take next in your transition. Remember, this journey is yours, and it's all about finding what makes you feel most comfortable and authentic in your identity. Good luck, and know that there's a whole community cheering you on!
