An Introduction to Affirmative Practices for Transgender and Nonbinary Clients with Serious Mental Illness-View Presentation

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In the SMI Advisor webinar, "An Introduction to Affirmative Practices for Transgender and Non-Binary Clients with Serious Mental Illness," presenters Shireen Khan, Dr. Lisa Rosano, Dr. Ashley Austin, and Dr. Asher X addressed the critical need for gender-affirming care in mental health services. Shireen Khan opened the session by introducing the focus on affirmative practices for supporting transgender and non-binary individuals with serious mental illnesses. Throughout the webinar, the faculty highlighted the importance of understanding gender dysphoria and its profound impact on mental health. Dr. Austin emphasized that gender dysphoria encompasses a range of distressing symptoms often exacerbated by unsupportive social environments. She advocated for treating gender dysphoria proactively as it often underlies other mental health issues, highlighting the transformative effect of gender-affirming interventions.<br /><br />Dr. S shared his personal journey, detailing the challenges faced when his gender identity was invalidated by a psychiatrist, underscoring the necessity for an affirming approach in clinical settings. The presenters highlighted the importance of creating safe, inclusive environments for clients by adopting practices like using correct pronouns and acknowledging the differences between sex and gender.<br /><br />During the Q&A, the experts addressed inquiries about initiating discussions on gender with children and navigating non-affirming parental attitudes. The discussion reinforced that gender influences begin early, often shaping emotional responses in restrictive ways. The session concluded with resources and next steps for clinicians to support this community effectively. Overall, the webinar urged practitioners to recognize the significant role of gender affirmation in enhancing the mental well-being of transgender and non-binary clients.

Keywords

gender-affirming care

transgender

non-binary

serious mental illness

gender dysphoria

inclusive environments

mental health

affirmative practices

clinical settings

pronouns