• Gender-affirming care ensures that transgender and gender-diverse individuals have a safe place and place to be heard while receiving treatment from medical services to mental health services.

• Gender-affirming care will help not only social workers but also agencies ensure there are policies and procedures in place to support transgender and gender-diverse populations best.

• Gender-affirming care can ensure that there is education provided to family members and support to help ensure transgender and gender-diverse individuals have a safe and supportive home environment.

• Gender-affirming care can provide support and is also in accordance with anti-discrimination laws and the National Association of Social Work Code of Ethics.

• Advocacy: Ensuring that each agency provides affirmations to the individual being served, that the individual receives fair and equal treatment, and that policies are in place to support and protect transgender and gender-diverse individuals.

• Using preferred pronouns, names, and preferences before, during, and post-treatment.

• Involving the individual in pre-planning goals and topics to discuss during treatment team meetings and ensuring a safe place.

Linked below are several research articles about the benefits and importance of gender-affirming care across treatment areas.