Ethical Considerations in Group Work with Transgender/Gender Diverse Clients

ABSTRACT

This article explores the ethical and clinical issues that may arise when utilizing group psychotherapy to work with transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals. Considering the unique barriers to mental health services experienced by this community, the authors identify ethical standards that may be especially salient in this work, including: justice and respect for people’s rights and dignity, competence, consent, and navigating multiple relationships. The article also explores the authors’ TGD therapy group and how they have worked with and addressed such ethical considerations and concerns.

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Megan E. Darby

Megan E. Darby is an advanced doctoral student at New Mexico State University (NMSU) in the counseling psychology program. Kayla Bolland-Hillesheim is an advanced doctoral student in Counseling Psychology at New Mexico State University minoring in Integrated Behavioral Health. She is currently completing her pre-doctoral internship at the University of Minnesota’s Student Counseling Services. Alejandro Cervantes is an advanced doctoral student at New Mexico State University and is currently completing his pre-doctoral internship at the University of Oregon’s counseling center. Tracie L. Hitter is an Associate Professor with NMSU’s Counseling and Educational Psychology program and is a licensed psychologist in private practice.