This session is aimed at providing practical, up to date advice, to support any psychiatrist who sees children and young people who are questioning their gender.

 

By the end of the session, delegates will feel more confident in understanding what to do and how best to support gender questioning patients.  

 

The panel delivering the session comprises of a psychiatrist who works with gender questioning and transgender people, an expert by experience and Dr Hilary Cass, the author of the recently published independent review of gender identity services for children and young people.

The final report of the Cass review has brought into sharp relief the recognition that many of those who are questioning their gender have very limited access to the care they need. This is because of the dearth of healthcare practitioners who feel confident to work with people who are gender questioning, whatever their age.

 

Cass recommended an holistic approach that emphasises the need for a comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment; individualised care plans taking into account the person’s wishes and preferences and an evidence-led approach.

 

The finding that many people who are gender questioning have concomitant mental health problems, means that psychiatrists are an important part of the care pathway.

 

Unfortunately, the toxic debate around gender identity and transgender issues, with heavily polarised views, has meant that the healthcare needs of people who are questioning their gender have been de-prioritised or even forgotten. This has also resulted in clinicians with more balanced views, or with no particular view, have been reluctant to work with this group of patients.

 

This session will be an opportunity for delegates ask questions and get practical advice to support patients who are questioning their gender.