Before your first visit
Once we receive a referral from your child's pediatrician, we will contact you to schedule intake appointments with:
- Social worker (by phone): Our social worker will ask many questions and offer resources to help you and your family. The phone call offers us important insight into the needs and readiness of the young person. Please note: The initial phone call with our team social worker is required of this program.
- Medical provider (in person): After the phone call with the social worker, you will meet with a medical provider in person. The medical provider uses the information from the phone call to assess and tailor to your child's needs.
On your first visit
At the first visit, we ask questions about your child's journey with their gender identity and their goals for affirmation. We focus on getting your child connected with mental health support. This step is crucial before the initiation of any medical therapy. We answer gender-affirming medical care questions and help you find community support. At the discretion of your child's provider, we may obtain lab work at this initial visit.
Prescription of gender-affirming medications
For patients under age 18:
- We require consent from all parents or guardians with medical decision-making rights for the minor patient.
- We do not prescribe puberty-blocking medications or gender-affirming hormones at the initial visit.
- Our team works with therapists and your child's regular physician or provider to assess needs and readiness before initiating any medication.
- A letter of support is required from an experienced therapist before initiation of hormone therapy in minors.