A Reflective Guide to Gender Identity Counselling

Book excerpt: Counselling professionals are increasingly seeking training for working with gender variant clients. Madison-Amy Webb invites them to consider a simple truth: everyone has a gender identity, whether or not they've given it much thought. By reflecting on their own gender identity through the exercises provided, counsellors can relate to clients in new and productive ways, gaining a more nuanced understanding of the issues faced by their clients and of their own identity. Incisive yet accessible, this unique guide shines a light on how the popular conception of gender identity came into being by looking at the social and historical influences at play. This context is then brought to life with a rich variety of case studies and excerpts from the author's own diary. Reflective exercises such as 'The Dressing Up Box' and 'Personal Meaning' will help readers develop a deeper understanding of their own gender identity, while clinical techniques offer new ways to connect with gender variant clients effectively. Essential reading for any counselling professional working with gender variant clients.