ABSTRACT
This chapter explores some of the challenges encountered by Trans therapists when sexual attraction becomes figural in the therapeutic relationship. I look at the interplay between sexuality and gender and how it impacts on the Trans therapist and the client. A trans therapist may have experienced their sexuality as heterosexual when they were in the gender role as assigned at birth. Conversely, they may experience themselves as Gay or Bisexual when previously they had lived a heterosexual experience.
The impact of male privilege from two perspectives, that is, Trans men and Trans women also impacts on how sexual attraction may be experienced. This, in turn, leads us to the impact of shame and how the Trans therapist may be using energy to remain in stealth. I will share my personal experience as a Psychotherapist who is also a Transwoman and how I have experienced sexual attraction in the therapeutic relationship.
