Navigating healthcare as a trans teen can be daunting. Here's what I learned.

My journey began with therapy. Finding a trans-friendly therapist was crucial. I asked:

What experience do you have with trans clients?
What approach do you use?
Will you support my transition?

Don't settle for someone who doesn't understand you.

Getting gender-affirming care wasn't easy. Here are obstacles I faced:

Long waiting lists for hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Doctors lacking trans-specific knowledge
Uncertain insurance coverage

To overcome:

Research local LGBTQ+ healthcare providers (NHS/GP practices in UK, Planned Parenthood in US)
Advocate for yourself
Seek support from:

UK:

NHS 111 (dial 111)
Gender Identity Research and Education Society (GIRES) Helpline (0300 330 5468)
Stonewall UK (0800 050 2020)

US:

The Trevor Project (1-866-488-7386)
GLAAD's Healthcare Guide
Planned Parenthood's Transgender Health Services