Our Services

When it comes to gender identity and related concerns, our first step is to listen. Some youth are exploring their identity. Others know that how they feel inside does not match up with the gender they were assigned at birth. We help sort through these questions.

After an initial consultation, we offer a thorough readiness assessment, which includes obtaining information from patients and their families. It takes six or eight hours and can be done in one day or divided over several sessions. If we determine that any mental health or other support is needed, we can connect patients with resources at Yale or in the community.

After the evaluation and when all agree that it is safe, healthy, and appropriate, we offer a variety of care options related to gender affirmation. These may include puberty-blocking treatments, cross-hormone therapies, and gender-affirming surgery (available only for patients aged 18 and older).

At the first gender affirmation visit, patients and their families will meet with one of our pediatric endocrinologists and a mental health provider experienced in dealing with gender variance. First and foremost, we make sure we understand our patients’ needs and desires. We will discuss the risks and side effects of any proposed care options, and work together to learn what support systems are already in place and determine what else our patients may need.

If you are in crisis, call the confidential toll-free National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If texting is easier, you can also text theNational Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.