Counselling Skills for Working with Gender Diversity and Identity

A comprehensive introduction offering the confidence and skills needed to work with gender diversity and identity

For practitioners working with issues surrounding gender identity, this book provides the additional tools and insights needed to help them build a therapeutic relationship with their client. Including case studies, interactive exercises and suggested reading lists, it forms a practical toolbox that any counsellor of gender issues can utilise.

For any student or practitioner needing to gain a sound understanding of the complex fields of gender variance, gender identity and gender dysphoria, this book provides the ideal starting point for the knowledge and skills that you need.

Emphasising the need for affirmative practice in gender care, it provides an overview of the subject areas and process issues which most commonly arise in counselling, combining theoretical with practical perspectives. It explores the diverse range of identities including masculinity, femininity, non-binary, gender dysphoria, trans and cisgender. It also addresses challenges which many clients experience in their daily lives - in the workplace, when coming out, when transitioning and in intimate relationships.

The authors highlight the importance of education and reflection to enable good practice. They feature case studies, vignettes and reflective exercises throughout the text, making it a useful tool for professional development as well as suitable as a text for students.