Year
2023
Season
Summer
Paper Type
Master's Thesis
College
Brooks College of Health
Degree Name
Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling (MHC)
Department
Public Health
NACO controlled Corporate Body
University of North Florida. Department of Public Health
First Advisor
Dr. Lena Salpietro
Second Advisor
Dr. Kassie Terrell
Department Chair
Elissa Barr
College Dean
Curt Lox
Abstract
Transgender and Gender Diverse (TGD) individuals are underserved in communities despite experiencing disproportionately higher rates of mental health distress. The cisheteronomativity of society creates chronic stressors that impact the mental health outcomes of TGD individuals. TGD individuals face the highest rates of discrimination in healthcare settings. Yet, little is known about the population's specific experiences seeking mental health care. Using a phenomenological approach, this study interviewed eight TGD individuals to understand the experience of seeking mental health care. There were six themes: facilitation of seeking behaviors, barriers, type of care, characteristics of providers, identity disclosure, and burden of advocacy and education. Participants reported they look for providers who at the minimum are competent, respectful, and safe. Participants want providers willing to educate themselves on TGD identities and issues. In congruence with previous research, this study found that TGD individuals are experiencing significant discrimination while seeking mental health care. The current findings illuminate that there is a substantial gap in the education provided to counselors in training and training for those working in the field.
Suggested Citation
Marks, Brice T., "The Experiences of Transgender and Gender Diverse Individuals Seeking Mental Health Treatment" (2023). UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 1211.
https://digitalcommons.unf.edu/etd/1211
Included in
Community Health Commons, Other Mental and Social Health Commons, Psychiatric and Mental Health Commons