SA Health Professionals
We know that parents and families that are supported are better able to support their trans and gender diverse children (of any age). Support can come from a variety of sources and psychological support is just as valuable as peer and other social supports. We have found that social connection, creation of a strong parent community and the underlying support of gender affirming mental health professionals can be key in ensuring good outcomes for all involved.
Australia and New Zealand Association for Transgender Health
We strongly recommend any professional who does or is interested in working with trans and gender diverse people to join the ANZPath professional association.
Australian Psychological Society
Australian Psychological Society - Trans and Gender Diverse Children
Australian Psychological Society - Information Sheet affirming transgender identities
Australian Psychological Society - Information Sheet
Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH)
The current standards of care for trans and gender diverse young people are an example of worlds’ best practice and have been authored by doctors at the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne’s Gender Service. The standards of care document has been endorsed by ANZPATH and contains a wealth of information for health care professionals.
Standards of Care and Treatment Guidelines for Trans and Gender Diverse Children and Adolescents.
Thorne Harbour Health (THH) (formerly VAC) / Equinox Clinic
Gender Affirming Health Care - Informed Consent Model
The informed consent model discussed in the THH document primarily relates to the providing of hormone therapy to adults and teens so it is included primary as an additional source of information. However the fundamental underlying concepts of the informed consent model apply to treating/supporting families and young children who are trans and gender diverse.
Gender Affirming care:
The Kids are Alright - Gender Affirming Health Care
Improving Interactions Between Gender Diverse Persons and the Healthcare System
North Western Metropolitan Primary Health Network - GP Training Module - Trans Health Care
Importance of using pronouns and preferred names
Importance of using preferred name and pronouns.
Research published in the Journal of Adolescent Health.
Trans Pathways report
Trans Pathways is the largest study ever conducted of the mental health and care pathways of trans and gender diverse young people in Australia. It is also the first Australian study to incorporate the views of parents and guardians of trans young people.
Trans Pathways Report - Summary
Trans Pathways Report - Full Report
Powerpoint presentation by Trans Pathways researchers.
Pathways to medical care in SA
Pathways to support in SA schools
Schools can contact the Engagement and Wellbeing team on 8226 2069 or email [email protected].
The Genderbread Person
The Genderbread is a very useful tool in facilitating discussions about the various aspects of gender and sexuality. The diagram provides a useful way to show clearly that gender identity, gender expression, biological sex and sexuality are discreet, separate things, and whilst they have intersections and relationships to one another, there is not a causal relationship between them. The diagram can have its drawbacks, and there is room for discussion around that, however where a discussion is occurring at an introductory level, it is a very useful tool.
Links to support for parents
Parents of Gender Diverse Children has a South Australian branch that offers online peer support as well as monthly in person social catchups for families.
General References:
https://healthindifference.org/albercht/
https://www.telethonkids.org.au/our-research/research-topics/gender-diversity/
