Gender Identities
Although many of us have been raised with the concepts of masculinity and femininity being strictly associated with the sex assigned to us at birth, gender identity is far more complex. Gender theory holds that gender is much more fluid and flexible than society would have us believe – that it is a constructed concept rather than a given. People who do not have a cisgender (agreement with the sex assigned at birth) identity may identify with the other binary gender (transgender),or may find themselves someplace in between or not on the gender binary at all (nonbinary, gender queer, gender expansive, etc.)
At the Counseling Center, we understand and value the role that gender identity plays in an individual’s life and the stress that results from not having your gender identity respected. We strive to create a safe environment for gender expansive students and encourage you to share your pronouns and name with our front-desk staff or your counselor so that we can address you appropriately. We provide gender affirming counseling and can make referrals to outside providers for gender affirming medical care.
This website about TU’s queer history provides many resources on campus, such as how to change your name, gender inclusive housing, LGBTQIA+ student groups, etc. If you are looking for a gender affirming service, please review our Trans/Nonbinary at TU Guide.
See this link for more information about general LGBTQIA+ mental health.
Online Resources
Trans Maryland – Offers resources for trans Marylanders.
National Center for Transgender Equality – A national social justice organization devoted to ending discrimination and violence against transgender people
Trans Lifeline – Provides peer support, for and by trans people.