Recommendations for Residential Treatment Facilities When Working with Transgender & Gender Expansive Youth

ABSTRACT The treatment needs of individuals in the mental health system are changing and this is particularly so for transgender and gender expansive (TGE) residents in treatment facilities. Providing quality care for TGE youth need not be perplexing if there are coherent, coordinated, and comprehensive policies that guide practice. Policy recommendations include the education of staff, especially non-clinical staff who typically spend the most time with clients. Trainings should encompass terminology and treatment relevant to the TGE community. Comprehensive knowledge of the treatment guidelines, protocols, and procedures are recommended to include group work to assist providers to recognize the influence of heteronormative schemas on their behavior and help identify unconscious micro-aggressions. Gender neutral language and terminology that reflects preferred pronouns are helpful policies. Placement allocation of TGE residents and how others in the program will react to sharing a room, bathroom, or community spaces with a TGE individual are often raised. Prior to admission, residential settings should inform all potential residents that the program has a nondiscrimination policy and the placement decision of a TGE resident should be based on careful clinical history, current risk assessment, his or her mental health, a review of any prior admission experience, and consultation with the consumer. Discharge plans should include services within their local communities that are important for them, such as employment, religious centers, cultural organizations, and recreation opportunities.