psychoanalysis views sex and gender as fundamentally non-normative.

Contrary to common opinions, Freud did not pathologize homosexuality or queer sexuality- in fact he said the opposite, that we, each and every one of us have the capacity for an unrestricted sexuality that seeks a pleasure beyond a social purpose such as reproduction. This was revolutionary for his time, and paved the way for mainstream cultural acceptance of non-normative expressions of gender and sexuality.

As a therapist, I aim to meet you as a subject whose life deserves careful and close attention like any other. No single narrative captures all trans experiences, which lie at the intersection of biology, psychology and culture. Having worked with clients questioning with their gender identity for many years, I know there is no single definition of what it means to be trans. You do not have to teach me gender or queer theory- I am familiar enough with the terms, but you will have to teach me in your own words, about the way you inhabit your body, how you make your life livable in the real world.

Here are some potential topics of exploration in therapy:

Ongoing ambiguity & ambivalence about one’s gender identity. The questioning or dysphoria around your gender or sexuality may continue after social or medical transition. Transition is just that- a process of ongoing change. As you age and have new experiences in life, your body changes, and therefore your relationship to your body will change.

Being perceived by others, passing and coming out. We talk a lot about being physically perceived by others and how transition both complicates and alleviates the discomfort of being seen. Sometimes, you feel ridden with anxiety being visible and seen by others, while other times you embrace how you appear. If you “pass” you feel safer and protected especially in states that are less tolerant of trans people, yet when you pass you also suffer from invisibility and misrecognition. If you “come out”- this doesn’t just happen once but repeatedly, a choice to make each and every time you meet someone or join a group- and that can be emotionally taxing.

Sex and Relationships can change dramatically with transition. There is more uncertainty about one’s desire when the normative definitions of sex, sexual identity, and romantic partnership become unfixed.