It is often difficult for family members and friends to understand why someone close to them must change their gender social role.
We run a bi-monthly family support group, providing support and information in a safe and confidential environment. Family members can meet others who may be in a similar situation to share experiences, ask questions or discuss concerns. The group is run by experienced psychotherapists who are specialists win working with gender identity.
You are welcome to attend if you are a family member, friend or simply care about someone who is under the care of the clinic.
The group is not open to partners or those romantically involved with someone using the service.
They may also confuse it with diversity in sexual identity, associating it with being gay or lesbian; this is incorrect. Transgender people may be straight, gay, lesbian, bi or asexual, just like everybody else.
Gender dysphoria is a healthcare need that arises because of a neuro-developmental difference in the affected person. They have no choice in this; it is simply how they were born. Gender identity is likely to be affected by a range of factors.
It is important to be supportive and understanding when someone close to you has shared their wish to live in a gender which is different to their biological birth gender. It has taken them a great deal of courage to reach this point. You are still talking to the same person with the same likes/dislikes and feelings. At this point you may be saying to yourself, “can it be cured?” The answer is usually no, so it is best to be accepting of the situation.