Gender Dysphoria Therapy in Denver
Gender Dysphoria: Symptoms
Gender dysphoria refers to the distress or discomfort that can occur when a person’s gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. This distress may involve strong discomfort with one’s body, secondary sex characteristics, or being perceived and treated as a gender that does not match one’s identity. Individuals may experience emotional pain, anxiety, sadness, irritability, or a sense of disconnection from their body or social roles. The intensity of dysphoria can vary over time and across different situations, such as social interactions, medical settings, or during puberty-related changes.
Gender dysphoria can significantly impact mental health and daily functioning, particularly when individuals face misunderstanding, stigma, or lack of support. Some people may avoid social situations, experience lowered self-esteem, or struggle with depression or anxiety related to ongoing distress. It is important to note that being transgender or gender-diverse is not a mental disorder; the diagnosis of gender dysphoria specifically refers to the distress that may arise from incongruence, not a person’s identity itself.
Treatment for Gender Dysphoria
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can be effective in helping individuals manage the emotional distress associated with gender dysphoria. CBT supports individuals in identifying and addressing unhelpful thought patterns related to self-worth, fear, or internalized stigma, while strengthening coping strategies for managing anxiety, depression, or stress. Therapy can also help individuals navigate social challenges and make values-aligned decisions about their well-being.
DBT is particularly helpful for individuals experiencing intense emotions, distress, or difficulty coping with dysphoria-related triggers. DBT teaches skills in emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness, helping individuals manage discomfort while building resilience and self-compassion. Therapy is often most effective when it is affirming, collaborative, and tailored to the individual’s goals, and may be used alongside gender-affirming medical or social supports when appropriate.
Fees
Individual Sessions
(45-minutes)
/session
Parent Training Sessions
(45-minutes)
/session
Couples
(45-minutes)
/session
Adults DBT Groups Sessions
(2-hours)
/session for six months to 1-year
Multi-Family Skills Group
(2-hours)
/session for 24-weeks
Insurance
We do not accept insurance (most specialists do not), but many of our clients are able to get partial reimbursement from their insurance companies through their out-of-network benefits. We are happy to provide you with the necessary paperwork to submit an out-of-network claim to your insurance company.
Begin Your Healing Journey
At Mountainside Behavioral Health, we are committed to fostering a supportive and professional environment where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered on their path to healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gender dysphoria the same as being transgender?
No. Gender dysphoria refers to distress related to gender incongruence, while being transgender describes a person’s gender identity. Not all transgender people experience dysphoria.
What kinds of distress are associated with gender dysphoria?
Distress may involve emotional discomfort, anxiety, depression, or distress related to one’s body or social gender roles.
How do CBT and DBT help with gender dysphoria?
Can gender dysphoria improve over time?
Yes. With affirming support, therapy, and individualized care, many people experience reduced distress and improved quality of life.
Free Consultation -
Begin Your Healing Journey
At Mountainside Behavioral Health, we are committed to fostering a supportive and professional environment where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered on their path to healing.