Discuss the main considerations that group leaders should contemplate when working with individuals who identify as transgender

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

It is imperative for group leaders to maintain a trans-positive environment that addresses issues of power and oppression within and outside the group. Collazo, Austin and Craig (2013) assert that clinicians should focus on depathologizing the needs and experiences of transgender persons and advocacy associated with the medical, legal and social aspects of transitioning. Bockting, Knudson and Goldberg et al (2006) identify several areas for assessment when gender concerns arise: gender identity, gender expression and the role of others’ perceptions of the client’s gender. In addition to maintaining a trans-positive environment, Dickey and Lowey (2010) highlighted that group leaders should be knowledgeable about transition related issues such as locating trans-affirming counselors, physicians, and surgeons, as well as legal issues such as name changes and birth certificates. While clients may choose to explore issues related to gender identity, clinicians should not label the gender identity as the problem. Instead, clinicians should be mindful to focus on the distress and environmental challenges faced by the transgender person.