
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.

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.

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.

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.

“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.

Trans Beauty Queens Redefining Pageantry
The world of beauty pageants has long been a bastion of traditional gender norms and rigid beauty standards. However, a new wave of trans beauty queens is challenging these conventions and redefining what it means to be a pageant contestant.

Your Gender Transition Journey Made Easier - Arrive Therapy's Free Surgery Workbook and Name Change Guide
Going through a gender transition involves navigating complex procedures, legal requirements, and potential roadblocks, but Arrive Therapy's Gender Transition Surgery Workbook and Name Change Guide aim to smooth the process for Chester County, Pennsylvania residents by drawing from their firsthand experiences.

Clothing For Trans Men
Clothing For Trans Men.

Two Big Victories For Trans People!
Two Big Victories For Trans People!

Exploring Gender Identity with Alexander Stefanini
Emmalee, Jen, and Alex discuss navigating gender identity, the work Alex does with his clients as well as their parents, supporting a loved one on their journey to transition, and the radical acceptance that can be helpful along the way. Tune in to find out what Alex is Calling BS on and to gain insight, awareness, and action!

Key Types of Hormone Therapy and Their Effects
HRT and You: A blog series by Arrive Therapy
The overview:
Feminizing Hormone Therapy: Estrogen
Estrogen: Promotes feminine characteristics such as breast development, softer skin, and wider hips.
Anti-androgens: Blocks the production and effects of testosterone, aiding in the reduction of masculine features. 1,2.
Masculinizing Hormone Therapy: Testosterone 1,2.
Testosterone: Induces masculine characteristics including a deeper voice, increased body and facial hair, and a more muscular appearance. It also halts menstrual cycles
Gender Fluid Hormone Therapy:
Hormone therapy may be taken in small doses by individuals who don’t identify as strictly male or female, resulting in a more androgynous appearance.
Hormone therapy may be taken in small doses by individuals who don’t identify as strictly male or female, resulting in a more androgynous or feminine appearance. 1.
Five teenagers of varying genders and colors, expressing their unique personalities

Microgrants Available for Trans Folks
Microgrants available for trans folks and their families.

Making The Most Out Of 2024
Making the most out of 2024.

Being Trans In Rural Pennsylvania
Living in rural Pennsylvania has its ups and downs.

Advice For Parents of Trans Kids
7 easy steps to make sure your child feels loved in this time of great change.

Job Hunting While Trans
Job searching while trans can be hard.
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: