Just Therapy
UK - Launched by James Esses in 2024, Just Therapy is born out of a desire to go back to what therapy should be – effective, ethical, and free from ideology We are an association of therapists and counsellors aligned by common ethics and principles. Unfortunately, much of the world of psychotherapy and counselling has been taken over by activists and ideologies, which risk harming, rather than supporting, the mental wellbeing of clients. Our members, who come from a wide range of disciplines and specialities, have signed up to our Code of Conduct.
Beyond Trans
UK and USA - A Genspect sponsored project Subsided therapy, up to 12 sessions, provided to those who might be considering transition, those who have transitioned, and those who choose to detransition, as well as those who feel ambivalent about their medical transition or step away from the belief that changing their body will resolve their distress.​ Beyond Trans aims to support individuals wherever they are on their journey, offering understanding and resources to meet their needs
Therapy First
USA based - Therapy First is building a directory of mental health providers who practice thoughtful, developmentally appropriate psychotherapy with individuals struggling with biological sex and exploring gender identity
The purpose of the directory is to help prospective clients connect with therapists who agree with the tenets in Therapy First’s membership statement
Support for parents and carers
Thoughtful Therapists receive many inquiries from parents looking for a therapist for their teenager who will not just affirm them. We are unable to offer individualised advice but suggest you check the Just Therapy website above, several members of Thoughtful Therapists are on that list.
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Therapy isn't your only option. Many people find the most helpful thing is talking to other parents going through the same thing, all at different stages of the same journey.
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Genspect (International)
This organisation represents parents of gender-questioning children. If you email them (via the contact details on their website) they will be able to put you in touch with parents in your area for support. Once vetted, you will be able to access a list of therapists in your area
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Gender Dysphoria Support Network (International)
This organisation offers support to families of individuals​
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Our Duty
Our Duty provides support for parents in the UK, Australia and Canada
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Bayswater Support (UK)
Bayswater offers parents whose children have a transgender identity somewhere to talk, share and be understood. They are wary of medical solutions to gender dysphoria, believing that exploring gender roles is part of normal child development.
LGB Alliance Helpline for Young People (UK)
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From their website:
'What makes us unique is that all of our volunteers believe in biological reality. That means that if you’re a girl who feels different, because you prefer short hair and playing football, we won’t suggest that you might really BE a boy. And if you’re a boy who is being bullied because you like to wear make-up and enjoy activities traditionally associated with girls, we won’t say that is because you ARE a girl.
We start from the understanding that there are an infinite number of ways to be male or female and homosexuality is perfectly natural'
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Book recommendation:
When Kids Say They're Trans: A Guide for Thoughtful Parents
Essential reading for all parents and professionals supporting young people struggling with the issue of gender identity
Stella O'Malley, Sasha Ayad and Lisa Marchiano (2023)
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