Psychology within the Adult Gender Identity Service
The psychology team at Transcend provides specialised support for individuals on the gender treatment pathway.
The team offers a range of interventions, including individual and group therapy, to address gender-related concerns or distress such as anxiety, low mood, self-esteem, and relationships.
Referrals to psychological therapy are made through discussions with a supporting clinician, typically during a second assessment or follow-up appointment. While many individuals accessing the service maintain good mental health and may not require psychological support, therapy is available for those who need space to reflect, explore their gender identity, or manage complex difficulties before proceeding with medical interventions. In some cases, extended assessments are provided for individuals who require additional time to consider their gender identity and readiness for interventions.
Psychologists also contribute to diagnostic assessments, evaluate readiness for medical and surgical interventions, and collaborate with other specialists to ensure holistic care. If a person’s needs are better met by local mental health services, the team can facilitate referrals to ensure appropriate support. Please note that we are not a mental health crisis service.
Due to high demand, there may be a waiting period before appointments are available.
We offer one-to-one (face-to-face and video) therapy options to people. We are looking to also offer group interventions in the future. The people we see may present with concerns about gender-related anxiety, low mood, self-esteem, and relationship issues. The work we do is person-centred and individually tailored to each person’s needs. This includes working in a joined-up way with other colleagues to support people with specific medical interventions they might be receiving via Transcend as part of their transition. We aim to undertake therapy using person-centred ways to explore with people and build an understanding, while also working to the strengths of an individual to empower them to take the next step in their journey.
Some people might be better supported by local services. When this is believed to be the best course of care for a person, we can offer to work with these other services to offer specialised support.
At Transcend, diagnostic assessments occur over a minimum of two sessions, however, some people may require more time, thought, or discussion about this and the path they choose regarding their gender transition. As such, psychologists within the team offer extended assessments to people who would benefit from more time to explore their gender and whether a diagnosis and readiness for medical intervention is appropriate for them.
Our team believes it's important to acknowledge the understanding and approach to gender-related psychological care has evolved over time. While some historical perspectives may have pathologised transgender identities, contemporary psychology recognises gender diversity as a natural part of human experience.