Trance-Gender
Working with Transgender Clients
in a Professional Hypnosis Practice
"...a remarkably comprehensive yet accessible overview combining issues of transgender experiences and hypnosis. In creating Trance-Gender, Christian Skoorsmith has given us something refreshing and essential. To read this unapologetic, deeply compassionate and inspiring guide for providing affirming, healing transformative care to transgender people is a gift and I truly thank Christian for creating it.
-Samuel Lurie, LICSW, MSW, MEd, CHt
If you have been feeling drawn to work with transgender clientele, or to make your practice more open and affirming, this is the book for you.
​
This book introduces transgender issues and experience through the lens of a professional hypnosis practice. It orients and prepares hypnotists, hypnotherapists, coaches, and other helping professionals to better meet trans clients where they are and know how to help them create for themselves the change they want to live into.
Christian Skoorsmith is an experienced, compassionate clinician who weaves a useful tapestry from psychology, sociology, philosophy, culture, biology, medicine, and the guidance of transgender people. This book includes theoretical context, concrete pointers, actionable tips and techniques, and helpful case studies distilled from the author's years working with trans clients and teaching cisgender professionals.
This text will transform your work with this vibrant population.
​
WholeHealth Publishing, 2024
paperback, 192 pages, $14.95 +s&h
Chapters &c.
01.
What is Transgender?
Identity, Issues, Terminology, and Truth
02.
Helping Clients Through Transition
Issues in Transitioning
Strategic Considerations
Techniques
03.
Helping Trans Clients Generally
​
04.
How Working with Trans Clients Benefits Cisgender Practitioners
05.
Glossary
Further Reading & Professional Development
Case Studies
Special Notes
About the Author
Christian Skoorsmith, MA, PsyD(c), BCH, FNGH
Christian Skoorsmith is an award-winning hypnotherapist and mental health professional in Seattle, Washington, specializing in working with transgender clients, and speaks to professional audiences around the world on how to be a responsible, effective, informed practitioner.
Review of Current Research
Abstract
The transgender community is global, diverse, and emerging. Despite their small number, they experience disproportionate adverse health indicators and inequities. While academic and medical attention has been increasing in recent decades, a dearth of information and well-informed clinicians remain a barrier to mental health and medical care. This literature review canvases research in the past 30 years and touches on recent developments in research, nomenclature, and recommendations for clinicians and current standards of care. First, this paper will attempt some description and understanding of the transgender community and experience. Then, we report findings on the particular needs of transgender individuals, focusing on the arena of mental health. Finally, this literature review explores recommendations for clinicians in working with transgender and gender diverse (TGD) persons in clinical settings.