Are Mental Health Professionals Prepared to Work with Transgender Clients?

About the Course:

Given that for transgender people there is the seemingly steady equality legislation, the increasing visibility and opportunities for more broadly based expression, the incidence and prevalence of gender-variant persons across nations, socioeconomic strata, race and religion, it appears that there is good reason to prepare for clinical work with this population. This short e-book introduces mental health professionals to the issues, practices, research and resources, including the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), for working with transgender clients.

Publication Date:

August, 2009

Author

Francine R. Goldberg, Ph.D.

Recommended For:

This course is recommended for health care professionals, especially psychologists, counselors, social workers, and nurses who seek knowledge about issues regarding transgender adults, children and families. It is appropriate for introductory to intermediate levels, of participants’ knowledge.

Course Objectives:

1. Identify numerous issues in clinical work with transgender adults, children and families.

2. Become familiar with current equality legislation, policies, and media projects regarding transgender people.

3. Summarize current clinical research regarding transgender people.

4. Explain various successful clinical interventions in working with transgender clients.

5. Discuss controversies surrounding the DSM diagnosis Gender Identity Disorder (GID).

6. Utilize professional resources for working with transgender people.