At GBCC, we recognize that there are times when medical providers and/or insurance companies require transgender and gender nonconforming individuals to have a mental health evaluation, before they are cleared for a medically necessary treatment. In our commitment to providing affirming care, we strive to make these evaluations as supportive as possible.
Clinical staff who conduct these assessments have devoted significant time and training to developing the skills necessary to conduct Gender Confirmation Surgery evaluations and Hormone Readiness Assessments When calling to arrange for one of the following assessments, please specify the type of service needed, so that you can be matched with a therapist with the appropriate training and skill.
Hormone Readiness Assessments
Trained Masters or Doctoral level therapists, will meet with a patient and/or their family to determine readiness for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) including hormone blockers for children/adolescents. A clinical history will be gathered and consultation with a primary care doctor, and/or referral resource is often part of the process. At GBCC, we believe in direct communication and collaborative care with our patients and families, so a therapist’s evaluation will always be discussed with a patient, and a copy of any documentation, such as a letter, will be given to a patient directly.
Gender Affirming Surgery Assessments (Gender Confirmation Surgery Evaluations)
In an effort to help a patient get insurance coverage for a medically necessary Gender Affirming Surgery procedure, a Masters or Doctoral level therapist will meet with a patient and/or their family, to conduct a mental health evaluation. Our aim is to do a thorough assessment that helps patients achieve the best possible medical and mental health outcomes. Patients will likely meet with our therapists for more than one appointment, and access to a patient’s previous medical records and previous mental health treatment (if applicable) is required.
When making your appointment, please specifically request an assignment to a therapist who conducts GCS Evaluations, and if known, please indicate the degree level needed (Masters or Doctoral), so that we can best meet your needs.
Click here for a list of providers who specialize in these assessments.