What Does Gender Affirming Care Involve?

Gender-affirming care is a supportive form of healthcare, and according to the Office of Population Affairs, it greatly improves the mental health of gender-diverse individuals. 

But it’s not just about your mental health. At its core, gender-affirming care is about helping you align your mental, emotional, and physical wellness with your true gender identity. 

For many transgender, nonbinary individuals, gender nonconforming, gender fluid, and agender people, gender-affirming care is part of the journey as you blossom into your true self.

At Owl & Eagle Health and Wellness, our team of board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioners and psychotherapists offers gender-affirming care here in Golden and Denver, Colorado.

Here’s where you should start if you want to explore the benefits of gender-affirming care:

What does gender-affirming care involve?

Gender-affirming care isn’t just a single service. Many services fall under this umbrella. Our team — all of whom adhere to the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) guidelines — offers:

Psychiatric care

Our team provides psychiatric care, including diagnostic evaluations. Comprehensive assessments can help you explore your gender identity and address any co-occurring mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma.

For those with mental health conditions, our team can help you manage your symptoms with medication. Medication can be used to address anxiety, depression, insomnia, and more.

Psychotherapy

Therapy provides a safe space for you to explore your identity, build self-confidence, and address the emotional challenges associated with gender dysphoria, societal stigma, or life transitions. Our team of therapists uses evidence-based approaches to empower you on your unique path.

If you’re preparing for gender-affirming surgery, our team also offers pre- and post-surgery support.

Gender-affirming hormone therapy

If you’re seeking physical changes that align with your gender identity, our team can test your hormone levels and then prescribe either feminizing or masculinizing hormones. We offer medications to help eliminate unwanted hormones. 

Our hormone therapy is available in many formats, including pills, patches, creams, and injections.

Supportive letters for gender-affirming needs

As you transition, our team can provide several supportive letters for you. This includes:

• Gender marker change letters if you need documentation to update your gender markers on legal and official records
• Anti-discrimination letters for work or school
• Referrals for gender-affirming surgeries

Let us know if you need any support letters. 

Why choose a mental health practice for gender-affirming care?

LBGTQIA+-centered mental health practices provide holistic support and address not only the physical aspects of transition but also the emotional and psychological challenges. This integrated approach helps you navigate your journey with confidence, safety, and resilience.

Gender-affirming care is about more than services; it’s about creating a welcoming and affirming space where you can be authentic. 

If you’re ready to take the next step, call our friendly office staff at 303-736-9697. You can also schedule an appointment online at the Owl & Eagle Health and Wellness location closest to you: Golden or Denver, Colorado.