Experiences of Stigma and Barriers to Care among Transgender and Gender Expansive Populations Seeking Mental Healthcare

Transgender and gender expansive (TGGE) people experience increased risk for mental health issues and suicidality, as well as significant barriers to mental healthcare, due to stigma and discrimination, including from mental healthcare providers. A sample of 945 TGGE participants completed self-report surveys, measuring experiences of stigma and barriers to care, and counselor competence. Data were divided into two groups by age and analyzed through linear regressions and one-way ANOVAs. Across groups, participants (approximately 58% of younger participants and 49% of older participants) reported experiencing stigma from a healthcare provider, and all reported some barriers to care, with more than half of older participants reporting barriers related to the availability of competent care. Those who had participated in individual therapy reported the highest levels of perceived counselor competency. The results of this study suggest significant discrimination and barriers to care, including a particular gap in the ways in which family systems are addressed and supported for TGGE people. Limitations and areas of future research are discussed.