TransGender Diversity Certification (60 Hours)
Module 1: Foundations of Gender Diversity (6 hours)
- Introduction to Gender Identity & Expression
- Gender vs. Sex vs. Sexual Orientation
- Historical and Cultural Perspectives on Gender
- Terminology & Inclusive Language
- The Gender Binary and Beyond
Learning Objectives:
- Define key concepts including gender identity, gender expression, sex assigned at birth, and sexual orientation.
- Explain the distinctions between gender, sex, and sexuality.
- Identify and use affirming and inclusive language with TGD clients.
- Describe historical and cultural contexts of gender diversity.
- Recognize and challenge the gender binary.
Module 2: Understanding the Transgender Experience (6 hours)
- Lived Experiences and Narratives
- Common Challenges: Dysphoria, Stigma, Discrimination
- Intersectionality (race, disability, socioeconomic status, etc.)
- Resilience and Strength-Based Approaches
Module 3: Assessment and Diagnosis (6 hours)
- Conducting Gender-Affirming Assessments
- DSM-5-TR and ICD-11: Gender Incongruence/Gender Dysphoria
- Co-occurring Mental Health Issues
- Avoiding Pathologization
Module 4: Gender-Affirming Therapeutic Approaches (9 hours)
- Affirmative Therapy Frameworks
- CBT, DBT, ACT in Gender-Affirming Contexts
- Narrative and Trauma-Informed Therapy
- Addressing Internalized Transphobia
- Ethical Considerations in Therapy
Module 5: Medical Aspects of Gender Transition (6 hours)
- Hormone Therapy: Basics for Therapists
- Gender-Affirming Surgeries: Types, Outcomes
- WPATH Standards of Care Overview
- Therapist’s Role in Letters of Support and Advocacy
Module 6: Supporting Youth and Families (6 hours)
- Developmental Considerations
- Working with Trans Children and Adolescents
- Parental Support and Family Systems Work
- School and Community Advocacy
Module 7: Legal and Ethical Issues (3 hours)
- Documentation, Consent, and Confidentiality
- Legal Name and Gender Marker Changes
- Navigating Institutional Discrimination
- Therapist Self-Disclosure and Boundaries
- State Statutes, Laws, and Rules
Module 8: Group Work and Community-Based Support (3 hours)
- Facilitating Support Groups for TGD Individuals
- Peer and Community Resources
- Advocacy and Allyship in Practice
Module 9: Clinical Practice & Case Consultation (9 hours)
- Case Studies and Role-Plays
- Supervision and Peer Consultation
- Navigating Complex Clinical Scenarios
- Developing Treatment Plans with a Gender-Affirming Lens
Optional Enhancements or Assignments
- Reading List (e.g., Transgender History, The Gender Affirmative Model)
- Guest Speakers / Panels (Trans activists, clinicians, medical professionals)
- Reflection Papers or Journals
- Final Project: Treatment Plan or Community Education Proposal
