Frequently Asked Questions

A Little Extra Clarity

Here’s where we answer some of our most Frequently Asked Questions.

Remember, if you can’t find the response you need here, you can always get in touch with us via our contact form. We’ll do our best to help you figure it all out.

Frequently Asked Questions - Gender Diversity - Transgender

Why should I see a specialist?

There are a wealth of reasons to see someone experienced working with the gender diverse community. When it comes to gender identity, most people would agree it’s a fundamental part of who we are. That alone is reason enough to seek specialist support. A journey as important as this should be treated with the gentle, experienced support it requires.

Further to this, it’s a worrying fact that many gender diverse individuals have experienced professionals suggesting their gender identity is a phase, or denied authenticity at all. This can cause significant hurt, and delay their journey in seeking to express their true selves and live authentically.

That’s an experience that no gender diverse person should have, and the support of someone with appropriate experience in this field can help avoid it.

I’m new to counselling – what should I expect?

We’re a warm, relaxed place located in Camperdown, and you’ll be dealing with our counsellor, Anthony. He has a wealth of experience, and offers a non-formulaic approach to counselling. This means it’s caring and conversational, and focuses on helping you find your own path as opposed to advice giving.

While it can be tough and scary to take that first step, we pride ourselves on creating a safe and empathetic space for people – particularly people visiting us for the first time.

You can read more about Anthony here.

How long will I need counselling for?

That depends on what you would like to achieve in counselling. That’s because people come to counselling for different reasons, with different experiences in life, worries and goals they decide to set for themselves. Some goals are reached quickly and then you might feel your work is done. What matters most is that you are in control of your counselling experience the aims you set for yourself and how many sessions you attend.

If you’re searching for the confidence to express yourself authentically, it might involve some longer term work as we explore what is getting in the way. That’s where we explore these causes, set goals to overcome them and grow in resilience, self-awareness and confidence.

Regardless of your reasons for coming to counselling, we’ll work collaboratively to set goals and time frames. It’s about finding the path that’s right for you.

Can you help me get clarity with regards to my gender?

We understand that not all people who want counselling relating to their gender are sure how they identify. Not to mention gender is a fluid and complex thing. Finding clarity is a journey, but one we can work through together.

Our therapist’s approach is non-formulaic, which means there isn’t a set outcome, beyond the goals you decide for your counselling. Greater awareness of your own gender identity, and figuring how you want to express it are common themes we support individuals with.

Most importantly, we focus on being true to your authentic self. It’s a voice many learn to ignore through traumatic experiences or a lack of support. So for many gender diverse people, showing this part of themselves can be overwhelming, even terrifying. Often seeing an expert in the area is key to moving forward. We offer a supportive space to help you find that voice.

How do I come out to family, loved ones and my employer?

This is a different journey for everyone. But typically the fear and anxiety associated with not knowing how people will react to your truth is central to most people.

We have extensive experience supporting people through the process of coming out, as well as exploring and setting an individual plan for this process. While it’s true to say what works for one person might not work for another, this individual approach means we’re in the best position to help you find the path that works best for you.

Do you offer counselling in other areas besides gender diversity?

Yes, we do. Anthony, our counsellor, often has people come see him to work on other issues. You’re also not limited to discussing gender if that was your initial reason for attending a session – you are in control of what you talk about in counselling. First and foremost, we’re here to help and support you on the topics and circumstances you choose to work on.

For services beyond individual counselling, we also offer educational sessions for employers and healthcare providers around gender diversity, as well as group therapy.