This book aims to make the complexity of gender diversity accessible to those that, like the author, are starting from scratch. In this heavily political area, it is not uncommon for therapists to feel intimidated or concerned about saying something wrong. Meanwhile, clients also worry about sharing their own struggles with gender with a therapist, in case the therapist were to further stigmatize them. This book aims at bridging the gap, to ensure that more psychotherapists and counsellors feel prepared to support gender-diverse communities in a way that is effective, ethical and affirmative.
Laura Scarrone Bonhomme is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist who developed her career internationally. Laura specialises in Gender, Sexual, and Relationship Diversity. Reflecting on her experiences as a therapist, she has written articles and book chapters about the experiences and challenges faced by transgender and non-binary people. She provides assessment, psychotherapy, and training to other professionals through www.affirm.lgbt
Skye Davies is studying a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy at the University of East London. They are employed as a Peer Support Worker at TransPlus and also, they work as a Volunteer Counsellor at Metro helping LGBTQ+ people. Their research interests are detransition and the experiences of non-binary people in psychotherapy.
Dr Michael Beattie is a Counselling Psychologist in private practice with a research interest in the psychology of men and masculinities and a clinical focus on working with sexuality, sexual health, gender identity and dysphoria. His book Counselling Skills for Working with Gender Identity & Gender Dysphoria was published with colleagues by Jessica Kingsley in 2018.