Psychotherapy for Suicidal Transgender and Nonbinary People

Despite many members of the trans community living well-adjusted and fulfilling lives, many countries report a significant rise in referrals for treatment for distress and despair associated with gender dysphoria, suggesting that transgender individuals are at a significantly higher risk for self-attack and suicide. Stigma, discrimination, and tensions within families, and with peers, appear to contribute to internal distress which may then relate to self-harming and suicidal actions. Psychotherapeutic treatments to explore the meaning and alleviation of symptomatic distress and suicide prevention require the thoughtful application of theory, research, and clinical responsiveness. In this article, we explore the relationship between gender dysphoria and suicidal vulnerability and discuss principles to guide psychotherapy in these situations. Clinical Impact Statement Despite many members of the trans community living well-adjusted and fulfilling lives, some individuals with gender dysphoria are at a significantly higher risk for self-attack and suicide. Psychotherapy can be useful to address distress associated with gender dysphoria and suicidal despair.