ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that the primary question of how to support and enable transgender clients to determine their own best pathway toward gender affirmation and expression. The chapter provides a basic outline for assessing gender dysphoria along with readiness and eligibility for gender affirming medical treatments, with the aim of supporting the client in fully internalizing and integrating their gender identity into their life. Mental health professionals may be called upon to offer counseling that explores gender or other concurrent life issues to assist the client in determining goals and optimal pathways for gender affirmation or expression. Professionals provide professional comments on readiness and eligibility for specific treatments. To perform these functions, mental health professionals need to be aware of several issues that may affect gender identity and presentation, influence treatment options, and shape probable outcomes in choosing and pursuing a particular pathway toward gender affirmation or clarification.
