Transgender persons seeking services: Barriers, supportive factors, and suggestions for practitioners

Abstract

Although trans gender persons comprise a relatively small percentage of the population, as a group, they experience elevated levels of discrimination as well as disparities in health and mental health. This study examined the experiences of adult transgender individuals who have sought social services, mental health services, and medical care and who live in southern California. This study also explored the suggestions transgender people themselves have for service providers on how to best deliver culturally competent care. Fifteen face-to-face interviews were conducted with transgender individuals using open-ended questions. Grounded theory was used to identify common themes. These themes were organized into four categories: experience summary, negative experiences, methods of coping, and suggestions for allies and peers.