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US & INTERNATIONAL

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Art therapy with transgender and gender-expansive children and teenagers

By Kelly Darke and Shannon Scott Miller. Nov 2020.  (US)

"An educational and inspirational book that offers practical guidance for art therapists working with transgender and gender-expansive youth and their families. It provides art therapy goals, recommended treatments and coping skills to use with this client group.

   Each chapter looks at how art therapy can address a different concern or aspect of the experience, such as transitioning, bullying, and recognizing or building a support system. It includes detailed case studies and cutting-edge art therapy interventions, which help young people to express the emotions surrounding the discovery of gender identity, the transition process, and self-care.

  If you are an art therapist who finds yourself working with a transgender or gender-expansive child or teen and you need a good foundation to support them, this book is for you! Art Therapy with Transgender and Gender-Expansive Children and Teenagers is an excellent introduction to providing affirming therapy from an art therapy lens.

   Throughout the text, it is clear Shannon Scott-Miller and Kelly Darke are passionate advocates, art therapists, and educators. They:

* break down complex topics into manageable chunks, making it accessible for the art therapist who has not previously worked with transgender or gender-expansive children and teenagers

* critically look at implicit bias with gender expression and gender identity, giving specific art directives assisting in investigating individual, family and cultural bias in a gentle, yet critically reflexive way

* provide case studies as examples to aid in the learning process integrating ideas of affirming therapy throughout the book

   The developmental stages of gender development and its clinical implications is examined with supporting case studies and references. Gender Dysphoria is highlighted in the text with diverse examples of how art therapy can support treatment. Scott-Miller and Darke look at systems level assessment and support building for the client. Working primarily with transgender clients, I can attest to the importance of assessing for support and the impact of systemic oppression on the mental health of transgender and gender-diverse individuals. (The authors) lay the foundation that is needed for working with gender-expansive and transgender children and teens in art therapy. If you find yourself needing some direction and support in this area, this book is a great place to start.

---- Jennifer Rozell-Whitaker LPC, ATR-BC (they/them, she/her)

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*** Beyond the gender binary
By Alok Vaid-Menon. June 2020.  (US)
“In Beyond the Gender Binary, Alok Vaid-Menon challenges the world to see gender not in black and white, but in full color. Taking from their own experiences as a gender-nonconforming artist, they show us that gender is a malleable and creative form of expression. The only limit is your imagination.”

 

Challenging genders: Non-binary experiences of those assigned female at birth

By Michael Eric Brown and Daywalker Burill.  2018."About the book
"Challenging Genders is an introduction to non-binary individuals who were, in this case, assigned as female at birth but do not identify as strictly binary male or female. The book delves into a number of gender identities and what it means to be first perceived as a girl, then a woman and not identifying as either but instead identify as non-binary.
     These are people who you meet and speak with every day. When you go to work, when you play your weekend sports, when you’re grocery shopping – they are there. They are your doctors, your teachers, your hairdressers, your attorneys, your neighbors, your friends, and yes, even your children, siblings, and parents.
      Readers will learn about terminologies (including the ones defined by personal experience), common attitudes and perceptions in society, and issues such as pronoun usage, misgendering, gender expectations, and discrimination. Part I is concentrated on education, while Part II consists of the contributed stories of sixteen non-binary individuals who have chosen to share their stories with the world."

Michael Eric Brown is the Founding Executive Director of TransMentors International, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting trans and non-binary individuals in their day-to-day lives. He is known for his contributions both on and offline, especially in the realm of social justice and gender concerns.  A scholar who is interested in how people’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by the actual, imagined, or implied presence of others, Michael is working his way towards a PhD in Social Psychology in order to provide vital research on the lives of trans and non-binary individuals. As a professional freelance writer, he writes on a variety of subjects and engages his readers with his unique writing style. He has published a number of books on the transmasculine experience as well as other subjects.

“…outstanding educational and emotional work that will help to dissolve the lines that separate us as well as lift the curtain of ignorance that permeates this subject.” Ms. Kari Samantha McAllister, Gender Lecturer, Library Commissioner, Hayward, CA
 

​The conscious parent’s guide to gender identity: A mindful approach to embracing your child’s authentic self
By Darlene Tando. 2016
“If your child is questioning their gender identity, you may have questions of your own. The Conscious Parent’s Guide to Gender Identity helps answer those questions, providing a relationship-oriented approach to supporting your child’s journey. Conscious parenting means being present with your children and taking the time to understand their point of view. Using this mindful method, you can support and guide your children as they discover their authentic selves.
With this easy-to-navigate guide, you’ll learn how to…:

 *   Communicate openly with your child about gender identity;

 *   Empower your child to make their own decisions;

 *   Create a welcoming environment at home;

*    Guide your child through social and medical transitions;

*    Help your child feel comfortable with friends, at school, and in your community;

*    Deal with others’ opinions about your parenting choices;

*    Plan a happy, successful future for you and your child.

 This mindful method of parenting will allow you and your children to strengthen your bond while allowing them to be who they truly are.”
 

Everything you ever wanted to know about trans* (but were afraid to ask)
By Brynn Tannehill. 2018.  (US)
“Leading activist and essayist Brynn Tannehill tells you everything you ever wanted to know about transgender issues but were afraid to ask. The book aims to break down deeply held misconceptions about trans people across all aspects of life, from politics, law and culture, through to science, religion and mental health, to provide readers with a deeper understanding of what it means to be trans. The book walks the reader through transgender issues, starting with 'What does transgender mean?' before moving on to more complex topics including growing up trans, dating and sex, medical and mental health, and debates around gender and feminism. Brynn also challenges deliberately deceptive information about transgender people being put out into the public sphere. Transphobic myths are debunked and biased research, bad statistics and bad science are carefully and clearly refuted. This important and engaging book enables any reader to become informed the most critical public conversations around transgender people, and become a better ally as a result.”

 

Family Acceptance Project
By San Francisco State University  (US)
“Helping diverse families learn to support their LGBTQ children to reduce health and mental health risks and promote well-being”
Family Education Booklets: (e.g.) “Family behaviors that increase your LGBTQ child’s health & wellbeing; Family behaviors that increase your LGBTQ child’s risk for serious health & mental health problems.”

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Gender: What everyone needs to know
By Laura Erickson-Schroth. Dec 2020.  (US)
“The term 'gender' was first distinguished from 'sex' in the 1950s, when psychologists began to discuss the idea of 'gender roles' – behaviors and responsibilities given to people by a society rather than flowing from their biology. Over the last two decades, transgender people have expanded our understanding of gender even further, introducing to the mainstream the concept of 'gender identity', an individual's understanding of their own gender. Along the way, there have been numerous debates and controversies (i.e., what is the influence of biology on gender, how does the media impact gender and gender roles, and do transgender people reinforce gender stereotypes or help to free us from them?).

   In an easy-to-read format that includes questions and short responses, Gender: What Everyone Needs to Know guides the reader through basic definitions; the history of gender as a concept; the role of biology, psychology, and culture on gender; and gender norms over time and across the globe.”

*** Gender born, gender made: Raising healthy gender-nonconforming children
By Diane Ehrensaft (psychologist). May 2011.  (US)

Classic book, but some of the language has since changed, or "evolved".
”A groundbreaking guide to caring for children who live outside binary gender boxes. We are only beginning to understand gender. Is it inborn or learned? Can it be chosen or even changed? Does it have to be one or the other? These questions may seem abstract but for parents whose children live outside of gender norms, they are very real.
    Dr Diane Ehrensaft has worked with children like (Felicia, Sam, and Maggie) for over 30 years. In Gender Born, Gender Made, she offers parents, clinicians, and educators guidance on both the philosophical dilemmas and the practical, daily concerns of working with children who don’t fit a 'typical' gender mold. She debunks outmoded approaches to gender nonconformity that may actually do children harm. And she offers a new framework for helping each child become his or her own unique, most gender-authentic person.”

[Click for bio:  Diane Ehrensaft, Ph.D, Developmental and Clinical Psychologist]

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*** The gender creative child: Pathways for nurturing and supporting children who live outside gender boxes
By Diane Ehrensaft (psychologist).  2016.  (US)
“From a leading US authority on a subject more timely than ever—an up-to-date, all-in-one resource on gender-nonconforming children and adolescents.
In her groundbreaking first book, Gender Born, Gender Made, Dr. Diane Ehrensaft coined the term gender creative to describe children whose unique gender expression or sense of identity is not defined by a checkbox on their birth certificate. Now, with The Gender Creative Child, she returns to guide parents and professionals through the rapidly changing cultural, medical, and legal landscape of gender and identity. In this up-to-date, comprehensive resource, Dr. Ehrensaft explains the interconnected effects of biology, nurture, and culture to explore why gender can be fluid, rather than binary. As an advocate for the gender affirmative model and with the expertise she has gained over three decades of pioneering work with children and families, she encourages caregivers to listen to each child, learn their particular needs, and support their quest for a true gender self. The Gender Creative Child unlocks the door to a gender-expansive world, revealing pathways for positive change in our schools, our communities, and the world.”

[Click for bio:  Diane Ehrensaft, Ph.D, Developmental and Clinical Psychologist]

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***  The gender identity workbook for kids: A guide to exploring who you are

By Kelly Storck.  Foreward by Diane Ehrensaft. 2018.

"The Gender Identity Workbook for Kids offers fun, age-appropriate activities to help your child explore their identity and discover unique ways to navigate gender expression at home, in school, and with friends.

     Transgender and gender-nonconforming (TGNC) children need validation and support on their journey toward self-discovery. Unfortunately, due to stigma and misinformation, these kids can be especially vulnerable to bullying, discrimination, and even mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. The good news is that there are steps you can take to empower your child as they explore, understand, and affirm their gender identity. This important workbook will guide you both.

     In this guide, a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in gender-nonconforming youth offers real tools to help your child thrive in all aspects of life. You and your child will discover a more expansive way of understanding gender; gain insight into gender diverse thoughts, feelings, and experiences; and find engaging activities with fun titles such as, “Apple, Oranges, and Fruit Bowls” and “Pronoun Town” to help your child to explore their own unique identity in a way that is age-appropriate and validating.

     No child experiences gender in a vacuum, and children don’t just transition — families do. Let this workbook guide you and your child on this important journey in their lives."

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Gender identity workbook for teens

By Andrew Maxwell Triska LCSW. Jan 2021.

Supportive exercises and advice for teens exploring gender identity

“Discover more about who you are and who you might want to become. Whether you’ve been pondering big feelings and questions about your gender, or you’re just a little curious about it, the Gender Identity Workbook for Teens is an interactive workbook that will walk you through what gender identity actually is. You’ll learn that there are endless ways to express yourself and that there’s no right or wrong way to identify.

    Try out writing prompts, quizzes, and activities that will help you organize and understand your thoughts about your identity, along with practical advice for talking about your gender, determining new names and pronouns, and getting involved with supportive communities both in real life and online. "

--- Find the right language―Get clear, detailed information on gender identities across all spectrums, including nonbinary, nonconforming, cisgender, transgender, genderqueer, agender, and more.

---- Real examples ― Read reassuring stories from real teens about their experiences with gender identity, plus a practical Q&A section for handling everyday scenarios you might encounter.

---- What gender really means ― Learn about the different components of gender identity, and then explore how you feel about your own brain and body, and learn why it’s okay if you’re still figuring out who you are.

Take the first step on the path to discovering your authentic self. “

Andrew Triska, MSW, LCSW, is an individual, family, and couples therapist whose practice focuses on queer and trans clients. His experience includes a wide range of work in New York's hospitals, clinics, and nonprofits. He is proud to be a trans-identified clinician."

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*** The gender quest workbook: A guide for teens and young adults exploring gender Identity

By Rylan Jay Testa, PhD, Deborah Coolhart, PhD and Jayme Peta, MA. 2015.   (US)

"This one-of-a-kind, comprehensive workbook will help you navigate your gender identity and expression at home, in school, and with peers.
  If you are a transgender and gender-nonconforming (TGNC) teen, you may experience unique challenges with identity and interpersonal relationships. In addition to experiencing common teen challenges such as body changes and peer pressure, you may be wondering how to express your unique identity to others. The Gender Quest Workbook incorporates skills, exercises, and activities from evidence-based therapies—such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)—to help you address the broad range of struggles you may encounter related to gender identity, such as anxiety, isolation, fear, and even depression.
     Despite outdated beliefs, gender no longer implies being simply male or female, but rather a whole spectrum of possibilities. This fun, engaging workbook is designed specifically for teens like you who want to explore the concept of gender and gender identity and expression—whether you already identify as TGNC or are simply questioning your gender identity.
    The activities in this book will help you explore your identity internally, interpersonally, and culturally. And along the way, you’ll learn how to effectively express yourself and make informed decisions on how to navigate your gender with family, friends, classmates, and coworkers. The book also includes chapters on sex and dating, balancing multiple identities, and how to deal with stressful challenges when they arise.
    The Gender Quest Workbook also features a brief downloadable guide for clinicians that explains ways professionals can better serve gender-expansive youth. The guide will address ways to help youth working with gender identity build resilience against gender minority stress, among other topics."

     Rylan Jay Testa, PhD, is assistant professor in the psychology department at Rhodes College, and research affiliate of the Center for LGBTQ Evidence-based Applied Research (CLEAR). As a clinical psychologist, his research focuses on understanding and preventing self-destructive behaviors and health disparities, particularly among transgender and gender-nonconforming people. He is highly respected for his work in both the field of psychology and in the transgender and gender-nonconforming community.

     Deborah Coolhart, PhD, LMFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist, and assistant professor at the Syracuse University Marriage and Family Therapy program. Her clinical and scholarly work focuses on the strengths and challenges of transgender people and their loved ones, and she has published several journal articles and book chapters on transgender-related topics. Coolhart created a clinical team of master’s students who work specifically with transgender clients, their partners, and their families in a free university clinic—providing a valuable service to the transgender community in New York.

     Jayme Peta, MA, MS, has been working with and for transgender and gender-nonconforming youth for over fifteen years. Peta holds a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Naropa University, and is a doctoral candidate in clinical psychology at Palo Alto University. Peta has given numerous trainings and workshops on working with transgender populations, and taught as an adjunct instructor in Naropa University’s psychology department. Peta’s current research examines the childhood experiences of transgender adults.
    This book has been selected as an Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies Self-Help Book Recommendation—an honor bestowed on outstanding self-help books that are consistent with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) principles and that incorporate scientifically tested strategies for overcoming mental health difficulties. Used alone or in conjunction with therapy, our books offer powerful tools readers can use to jump-start changes in their lives."

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​​Guide to being a straight ally (US)
By Straight for Equality*, a program of Pflag National (US). 4th edn, 2020
A guide for straight allies of LGBTQ+ individuals.
 

​Guide to being a trans ally*
By Straight for Equality, a program of Pflag National. 2020  (US)
A PDF booklet with information to guide allies of the trans community. Useful general info.
 

​A guide to being an ally to transgender and nonbinary youth
By The Trevor Project.  (US)
“Our Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Youth is an introductory educational resource that covers a wide range of topics and best practices on how to support transgender and nonbinary people.”
 

Helping your transgender teen, 2nd edition: A guide for parents

By Irwin Krieger. 2018.   (US)

“Going through puberty and adolescence presents unwelcome changes for many transgender youth, and this book provides advice to parents of transgender teens to help them understand what their child is experiencing and feeling during this challenging time.
  Addressing common fears and concerns that parents of transgender teens share, the book guides them through steps they can take with their child, including advice on hormones and surgery and how to transition socially. It addresses the recent increase in teens presenting with non-binary identities, and reflects major legal, social and medical developments regarding transgender issues. The author's insights are gained from his professional experience of providing psychotherapy regarding gender identity. He provides resources and further reading to help parents expand their knowledge.
  Although aimed predominantly at parents, this book is useful for anyone working with teenagers and young adults as it provides many answers to common questions about adolescent gender identity.”

      Irwin Krieger, LCSW is a clinical social worker who provided psychotherapy in a private practice setting for LGBT individuals, couples and families for over 30 years. Irwin has worked extensively with transgender teens and adults and their families

      Irwin has presented at the World Professional Assn for Transgender Health Symposium in Atlanta, the US Professional Assn for Transgender Health Symposium in Los Angeles, the Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference, and the Maine Academy of Family Physicians. University presentations include Yale, Quinnipiac, Ursinus, University of Hartford and UConn. Irwin was the keynote speaker at the GSA Summit at Eastern CT State University in the fall of 2011, the CT School Counselors Conference in 2017, the GeMS Conferences at Boston Children’s Hospital in 2013 and 2015, and Transgender Family Day at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Hospital in 2017.

      From 2012 to 2016 he was a consultant for the Transgender Care Team at Yale Health Plan.

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How to understand your gender: A practical guide for exploring who you are

By Alex Iantaffi and Meg-John Barker.  Sept 2017.  (UK)

”Have you ever questioned your own gender identity? Do you know somebody who is transgender or who identifies as non-binary? Do you ever feel confused when people talk about gender diversity?
    This down-to-earth guide is for anybody who wants to know more about gender, from its biology, history and sociology, to how it plays a role in our relationships and interactions with family, friends, partners and strangers. It looks at practical ways people can express their own gender, and will help you to understand people whose gender might be different from your own. With activities and points for reflection throughout, this book will help people of all genders engage with gender diversity and explore the ideas in the book in relation to their own lived experiences.”

For anyone who's ever wished they had a smart, kind, friend with whom they could calmly and safely discuss gender issues: this most excellent book is that kind of friend''. - Kate Bornstein, author of Gender Outlaw

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It’s complicated, am I transgender?

By Alexandria Anthony. 2018   (US)
“This book hopes to explain to the masses exactly what does being transgender means. In a nutshell and to put it as simply as possible, transgender is really an umbrella term for people whose gender identity, gender expression or behavior does not match or conform to what society typically associates with the sex that they were assigned at birth. Gender identity really refers to a person’s internal feeling and sense of being male, female or something else. Gender expression refers to the way an individual communicates gender identity to society through their behavior, clothing, hairstyles, voice or body characteristics. 'Trans' in society is sometimes shorthand for the term 'transgender'. The positive thing to make note of is in the way transgender individuals are being spoken about in popular culture, academia and science and that it is constantly evolving. This book hopes to bring more awareness, knowledge and openness about transgender people.”
 

Our trans loved ones: Questions and answers for parents, families, and friends of people who are transgender and gender expansive
By Straight for Equality, a program of Pflag National. (~2020).  (US)
Useful for general information. Includes list of resources, films, books… ***
“Our Trans Loved Ones is a brand-new, updated resource. Written by PFLAG staff members, and created with the help of content experts, reviewers, and PFLAGers with experience to share, it is full of information, first-person stories, and expert input geared to those who have a loved one who has come out as trans or gender expansive. “

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Parenting your transgender teen: Positive parenting strategies for raising transgender, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming teens

By Andrew Maxwell Triska. March 7, 2022.   (US)
"Love and support your transgender teen

You’re probably reading this because your teenager shared something important about themselves. You want to be supportive, but what does “supportive” mean to transgender, nonbinary, or gender nonconforming teens? This parenting book provides positive parenting tools to support your teen on their journey of self-discovery plus strategies to help you build a stronger relationship with them.

What sets this love-centered parenting book apart from other books on parenting teens:

• Learn—Read about trans identity and learn how gender has been studied throughout history to help you put your child’s gender identity into context.

• Communicate—Show your teen you care by learning the terms used to describe gender identity and how to talk to them about their experiences in accurate and affirming ways.

• Support—Discover ways you can support your teens' gender expression, like helping them find clothes that fit or taking them to a gender-affirming salon.

• Advocate—Learn how to talk about your teen’s gender to friends and family, how to support your child in school, and the laws that protect trans people from discrimination and harassment.

There’s a world of information and support out there for you and your teen, and by picking up this book you’re taking the first step."

​ANDREW MAXWELL TRISKA, MSW, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and author in New York who works with trans and queer youth and adults. Triska also trains and consults on gender identity and sexuality for organizations, corporations, and schools. He is proud to be a trans-identified therapist.

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Raising the transgender child: A complete guide for parents, families, and caregivers
by Michele Angello. 2016. (US)
“Written by top experts in the field, Raising the Transgender Child offers much-needed answers to all the questions parents and other adults ask about raising and caring for transgender and gender diverse children: Is this just a phase? Did I do something to cause this? How do we protect these children? Who should I tell, and how? Will anyone love my child?

   Written by Dr. Michele Angello, a leading therapist and go-to expert in the field of transgender parenting, and Ali Bowman, bestselling writer and parent advocate, Raising the Transgender Child helps readers champion and celebrate gender diverse children while at the same time shedding fear, anger, sadness, and embarrassment. With specific and actionable advice – including coming-out letters, identity challenges, school and caregiver communications, and more – the guide provides a wealth of science-backed information alongside friendly and practical wisdom that is sure to comfort, guide, and inspire the family and friends of transgender and gender diverse children."
 

Reflective workbook for parents and families of transgender and non-binary children
By D.M. Maynard. Book.  2020.       (US)
“When a child goes through transition, the dynamics of the family unit can start to shift. It is not uncommon for one family member to feel one way about the transition, while another may feel quite differently. This innovative workbook discusses the unique needs of parents and families as they navigate their child’s gender exploration. Providing a safe space for them to work through their own uncertainties and necessities, it gives specifically tailored guidance and support, with sections on school life, language and terminology, finding a therapist, possible grief, social/medical intervention options and more. Personal anecdotes from parents and other family members offer insight and understanding, alongside reflective activities, quizzes and positive affirmations throughout.”
D. M. Maynard has been an educator in New York for more than thirty years and has used her expertise in teaching to create workshops and workbooks. She presents internationally on the needs of partners, parents, and families of trans individuals and lives in New York.

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The reflective workbook for teachers and support staff of trans and non-binary students: Your school's transition as your students transition

By D.M. Maynard. Jan 20, 2021.  Book.   (US)

"A reflective workbook aimed at teachers and support staff of students who are transitioning or questioning their gender. This book provides insights, practical tools, and opportunities for self-reflection. It discusses the unique needs of teachers and schools as they navigate supporting the gender journeys of their transgender, non-binary, or gender questioning students by enabling staff to identify, understand, and incorporate the needs of this population.
     The chapters of this essential resource offer guidance on how to implement appropriate school policies and inclusive curriculum, learn topical terminology, address bullying, and develop bathroom guidelines. This book will help school staff ensure that students feel safe, included, and respected, while creating a judgment-free space for teachers, support staff, and administrators' own self-exploration as they embark on the process of acquiring new and relevant information. Personal anecdotes from real-life educational experiences heighten awareness and perspective, alongside interactive activities, enjoyable quizzes, answers to common questions, and positive affirmations."

D. M. Maynard has been an educator in New York for more than thirty years and has used her expertise in teaching to create workshops and workbooks. She presents internationally on the needs of partners, parents, and families of trans individuals and lives in New York.

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Supporting & caring for transgender children
By Human Rights Campaign, American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Osteopathic Pediatricians. 2016.  (US)
“Supporting & Caring for Transgender Children is a groundbreaking resource that explains how families and healthcare professionals are helping transgender children thrive.”

-- To download the full guide, click HERE.

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Supporting transgender autistic youth and adults: A guide for professionals and families

By Finn V. Gratton. 2019.  (California/US)

“Providing advice on how professionals working with autistic trans youth and adults can tailor their practice to best serve their clients and how parents can support their trans autistic children, this book increases awareness of the large overlap between trans identities and autism.
  By including chapters on gender diversity basics, neuroqueer trauma and how to support neuroqueer individuals, this book sets out strategies for creating more effective support that takes into account the unique experiences of trans people on the spectrum. Written by a therapist who identifies as neuroqueer, this book is the perfect companion for professionals who want to increase their knowledge of the experiences and needs of their trans autistic clients.”

Finn V. Gratton is a somatic psychotherapist specialising in trauma and transgender and autistic/neurodivergent issues. Finn also identifies as non-binary and autistic.

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​Supporting your young gender non-conforming child

HRC (Human Rights Campaign).  2020.  (US)

"This guide was crafted for the parents and guardians of young gender non-conforming
children to help them understand and better support their child, while empowering
them in navigating common situations they may encounter. There is an increasing
body of resources focused on transgender children; however, young gender
non-conforming children may present, dress, play and identify differently than their
young transgender and non-binary peers. Young gender non-conforming children
who are supported and affirmed, and accepted by their family in general, experi-
ence higher self-esteem and better health outcomes, and are less likely to suffer
from depression and anxiety. For these reasons, it is important for parents and
guardians to make sure their home is a place where their child feels safe and
loved unconditionally.
    We hope that this resource can serve as a launching point for you in your journey
towards understanding and supporting your gender non-conforming child. Through-
out the guide, we have provided additional resources to help your family continue in your research and journey."

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Teaching transgender toolkit: A facilitator’s resource guide to increasing knowledge, decreasing prejudice & building skills
By the Transgender Training Institute.  (US)
“A collection of 30 lesson plans designed to support facilitators in implementing impactful Transgender 101+ Trainings. TI is a team of transgender and non-binary educators who facilitate professional development and personal growth trainings. We provide tailored trainings for a wide range of clients, and also offer webinars and classes for individuals. All of our content is facilitated by our team of transgender and non-binary educators, so you are always learning directly from–and financially supporting–transgender and non-binary community members."

Winner of the Division 44 of the American Psychological Association’s 2017 Distinguished Contribution to Education and Training award, &, Winner of the 2016 AASECT Book Award
 

Thriving through transition: Self-care for parents of transgender children

By Denise O’Doherty LPC MSN LMFT RN. 2018.     (US)

"Mom, Dad - I'm transgender"
”As the parent - What do you say?  What do you do? How do you cope with what is about to unfold in your life?
  A parent's life can change forever when a child "comes out" and says they are transgender. Whether your child is 5 or 50, the word "transgender" or "transition", will likely cause a multitude of conflicting emotions and countless questions. Parents are often unprepared to know what's next and, most importantly, know how to care for themselves in the process.  
  This book was written to make the adjustment process easier for parents or anyone who loves a transgender person.  This book is a must-read resource for family members, educators, clergy, counselors, the medical field, social awareness advocates and everyone who loves a transgender person and the parent raising them.”

"Denise O’Doherty LPC, MSN, LMFT, RN, a native New Yorker, is a psychotherapist in Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a Certified IMAGO Relationship Therapist, and a Registered Nurse. She has had a full-time private practice in Houston, Texas for over 25 years.

In addition to her practice, Denise is an educator, lecturer and author. She presents regularly to professional, corporate and civic organizations on personal development and transgender education. She has been a Clinical Instructor for the University of Texas at Houston School of Nursing. Her warm and engaging style provides enlightenment, clarity and insight. She inspires confidence while helping others seek positive change. Denise specializes in Gender Identity Issues, Marriage and Family Therapy, Relationship Counseling, Pre-Marital Counseling, Addiction, Recovery and Codependency.

She recently published a workbook, “Personal Boundaries and Effective Confrontation."

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*** Trans bodies, trans selves: A resource by and for transgender communities

Edited by Laura Erickson-Schroth. 2021.  (US)

"There is no one way to be transgender. Trans Bodies, Trans Selves is a revolutionary resource - a comprehensive, reader-friendly guide for transgender people, with each chapter written by transgender and gender expansive authors. Inspired by Our Bodies, Ourselves, the classic and powerful compendium written by and for cisgender women, Trans Bodies, Trans Selves is widely accessible to the transgender population, providing authoritative information in an inclusive and respectful way and representing the collective knowledge base of dozens of influential experts.

     Each chapter takes the reader through an important issue, such as race, religion, employment, medical and surgical transition, mental health, relationships, sexuality, parenthood, arts and culture, and many more. Anonymous quotes, testimonials, art and poetry from transgender people are woven throughout, adding compelling, personal voices to every page. In this unique way, hundreds of viewpoints from throughout the community have united to create this strong and pioneering book.

     It is a welcoming place for transgender and gender-questioning people, their partners and families, students, professors, guidance counselors, and others to look for up-to-date information on transgender life. The content of the second edition of this award-winning resource will be thoroughly updated throughout and will include entirely new stories, artwork, and illustrations as well as dozens of new contributing authors and collaborators."    [First edition, 2014: CLICK HERE]

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Trans allyship workbook: Building skills to support trans people in our lives

By Davey Shlasko. Oct 2017. (US)

“Revised, updated and expanded for 2017 - the new Trans Allyship Workbook is everything you've been wanting to read about trans allyship. A workbook to help you build your understanding of trans communities and develop concrete skills for supporting trans people in your life, with over 100 pages of explanation, activities, illustrations and reflections including:  New sections on intersectionality, singular they, and philosophies of allyship. Tips and "best practices" for the special allyship situations of parents, teachers, healthcare providers and therapists. Tons of new color illustrations. New activities - it really is a "workbook" - to help you deepen and practice your allyship skills. Extensive glossary to get updated on recent evolutions in trans terminology. Resource lists to help you take the next steps in your learning, whether for personal or professional development.”

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Transcend Australia: Reading, listening, viewing

"Transcend Australia has collated this list to help you find the books, zines, comics, graphic novels, podcasts and programs that will guide and inform you, your child, family, friends, colleagues and communities in understanding gender diversity better.

This list has reading material for children, teens/young adults, parents/carers and allies, covering fiction and non-fiction.  Everyone has their own tastes and preferences so we have gathered a wide range to select from. It’s not an exhaustive list  and are simply suggestions. This collection is an opportunity for you to gather information, discover and learn."

"Transcend Australia is working towards a world where trans, gender diverse and non-binary children are embraced and given every opportunity to thrive and flourish.  Transcend’s purpose is to support, affirm and celebrate the lives of trans and gender diverse and non binary (TGDNB) children and their families and carers.  Kindness and authenticity will underpin/guide/motivate all our interactions."

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TransForm: Answers to the trans questions you have no idea how to ask (questions from Trans Everything book 1)
by Jamie Winters, 2019.
“Do you need a lifeline when it comes to transgender topics?
Navigating through conversations about trans subjects when you’re still a newbie is terrifying. Do you sound like an offensive simpleton? Which pronouns should you be using when? What do all these new words even mean?
    Consider this book your trans friend willing to answer any question you have, no matter how offensive. There’s even a glossary in the back to help you navigate through conversations! In clear, simple language, you’ll learn things such as: What it’s like to transition and live as a trans person. How to understand your own identity. The difference between sexual orientation and gender identity. What’s considered rude and polite in the trans community. How to come out or respond to a loved one coming out.
    Written by a trans man ...on gender identity and how it relates to finding yourself, TransForm is meant to be a reference for all. Whether you’re trans yourself and not sure where to start, someone who just learned someone they love is trans, or even if you’re just wanting to be a better ally, you’ll want to keep this book nearby for all your questions.”

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