ABSTRACT
While processing the complexity of gender identity and adolescence, TNB youth and their families face numerous challenges seeking gender-affirming medical care. Further, research has shown these challenges related to gender identity and age may impact TNB youth’s psychosocial health outcomes. Although a significantly higher proportion of TNB youth experience mental health challenges as compared to their cisgender counterparts, in part due to minority stress, research has shown that gender-affirming care ameliorates anxiety, depression, and suicidality among TNB youth, stressing the importance of eliminating barriers to affirming care. While it is becoming increasingly understood that there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to gender-affirming care, some professional standards and health care policies restrict access to medical care for transgender and, particularly, nonbinary youth. This chapter identifies barriers to care, gaps in the literature, and the ways in which health care providers can facilitate positive navigation of medical care for TNB youth and their families. Two primary approaches to clinical mental health services with trans and nonbinary youth will be reviewed: The Gender Affirmative Model and the Wait and See Approach. Finally, a case study and critical thinking questions are provided to facilitate reflection and discussion.
