The Division of Adolescent Medicine provides comprehensive care and support services specifically designed for transgender-identified youth, as well as gender-variant, gender-questioning, and gender-spectrum children, adolescents and young adults through the age of 25. Care is provided by a team of physicians, psychologists, social workers, nurses, case managers and health educators. Gender-sensitive services offered include consultations with gender specialists, hormone therapy for youth interested in transitioning their bodies, and general medical care for adolescents and young adults. Mental HealthTransgender youth often face psychosocial issues, including family and peer rejection, discrimination, violence, harassment, poor access to medical care, educational barriers and economic marginalization. Mental health risks for transgender youth include depression, low self-esteem, substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, suicidal thoughts and high-risk behaviors. Therapists in the program confirm gender-related diagnoses, identify mental health concerns and develop a treatment plan that is best suited for each patient. Patients may be referred for individual therapy, group therapy, skill-building group sessions or any combination of these treatments. Case Management/Health EducationCase management and health education are available to help children and young adults secure educational opportunities, housing, employment, clothing and food. Health education groups provide opportunities to confront social norms and support youth in mobilizing their communities, while staff help educate families on how to best support their teens and young adults. |