After the Transition—Reflections, Recovery, and Continuing the Journey
Home in Pennsylvania
In between the August and December surgeries, I arranged a fall semester of free voice lessons after researching three providers who all specialized in helping transgender people, especially trans women. Estradiol does not help raise your voice.
Surgery, Setbacks, and Strength—A Mother’s Role in Gender-Affirming Care
Surgeries in Arizona
We stayed in an Airbnb townhouse close to the surgeon’s office, surgical center, and local hospital. As planned, we had a rental car for 10 days and used an Uber from then on. Since I was not working and Caroline had recently attended her second college graduation, we were able to stay in town for all follow-up visits with the surgeon.
Fighting for Coverage—Navigating Insurance for Gender-Affirming Surgery
Medical Insurance
Part of trans advocacy for Caroline was pinning down her medical insurance coverage. I had to challenge her employer to reveal transgender surgeries covered by her policy (contract) by arranging a meeting with In-House Counsel and the Head of Benefits.
Navigating the Legal System—Name and Gender Marker Changes Without a Lawyer
Legal Gender and Name Change
I can’t tell you how lucky I was to have the mentor I met at my first PTWC. She happened to live in the same county in Pennsylvania as Caroline. She took the time to write a seven-page document on how to save tons of money by not hiring an attorney to file the required paperwork for a legal name change at the County Court of Common Pleas.
From Hormones to Coming Out—The First Steps of Medical and Social Transition
Physical and Social Transition Begins
One of the most difficult and frustrating tasks in 2017–18 was finding an endocrinologist who was willing to help Caroline with her 15-month pre-surgical hormone treatment following her decision not to save sperm. I searched her insurance network and called group practices of endocrinologists, one after another, and was told that not only did they not have anyone trained in transgender care, they had no one interested in coming up to speed to do so.
Visit Arrive Therapy at this Year’s PRIDE Events!
June is PRIDE Month, and we are so excited to see you there! Stop by our booth to say hi and grab some free swag.
Here are all of the 2025 Pride festivals and events that Arrive will be attending. Check back here throughout the month for updates.
Finding Mentors and Mapping a Path—Lessons from the Philadelphia Trans Wellness Conference
Making Progress
The best advice we received from a therapist was to attend the annual Philadelphia Transgender Wellness Conference (PTWC). I attended all three days for three years in a row.
LGBTQ+ Events Near Philadelphia: May 2025
Here are some upcoming queer events to check out in May 2025.
LGBTQ+ Events Near Philadelphia: April 2025
Here are some upcoming queer events to check out in April 2025.
From Therapy Hurdles to Community Support—Navigating the Early Days of Transition
Immediately After Disclosure to Mother at Age 23
Now what?! The next day I headed off to a medical library open to the public in a local hospital. The medical librarian printed three of the most recent studies about transgender people from scientific publication subscriptions paid for by the hospital.
Let’s Make Democracy WERK: Fighting Back Against Anti-Trans Attacks
Trans rights are under attack. Learn how Trump’s executive orders are harming trans people and how you can take action to protect trans rights today.
“Mom, I’m a Girl”—A Mother’s First Steps Toward Supporting Her Trans Daughter
“Mom, I’m a girl.”
One day, at the age of 23, my daughter sat me down and simply said: “Mom, I’m a girl.” Within a fraction of a second I replied: “Oh, what do we need to do about that?” She knew enough about the subject to say she needed to start by seeing a therapist.
LGBTQ+ Events Near Philadelphia: March 2025
Here are some upcoming queer events to check out in March 2025.
Erasing Existence: The Trump Administration’s Definition of Gender and Its Consequences
Forced Back into the Closet: How Trump's Policies Are Silencing the LGBTQ+ Community
How to Be an LGBTQ+ Ally in Philadelphia This Year
As we head into a new year, there are many meaningful ways to show support and be an active ally to the LGBTQ+ community. Here’s how you can make a difference, with suggestions for resources local to the Greater Philadelphia area.
LGBTQ+ Events Near Philadelphia: February 2025
Here are some upcoming queer events to check out in February 2025.
LGBTQ+ Events Near Philadelphia: January 2025
Here are some upcoming queer events that we’re excited about in January 2025.
Happy new year!
How to Survive the Holidays (As a Queer Person)
The holiday season can be a mixed bag for queer people. Between family gatherings, nostalgic traditions, and potential challenges in environments that may not fully embrace who you are, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Here’s your ultimate guide to navigating the holidays as a queer person, filled with practical tips to protect your peace and prioritize your well-being.
How Trans Folks Can Prepare for the Trump Administration
The Fight Isn’t Over: Preparing for What’s Ahead
With the recent election, many in the LGBTQ+ community—especially trans folks—are feeling terrified about what lies ahead. A new administration openly hostile to transgender rights is cause for concern, but there are steps you can take now to protect yourself and secure your future. This guide is here to provide actionable advice, legal resources, and reassurance as you navigate these uncertain times.
Contact us
We do not take insurance.
However, if you require financial assistance. we have options for you. First, not all of our therapists cost the same. Check the Team page for details. In addition, you can submit your expenses to insurance to get a portion of your fee refunded. Click below for a quick guide: