If I join a GWC transgender therapy group, will the paperwork my insurance or parents see have any codes or info that would indicate it is a service for trans people?
They will see diagnosis codes and CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes. The CPT codes will be for an intake evaluation and for group therapy. As long as there is another billable diagnosis code, “gender dysphoria” will not be used if that is your preference.

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Does the GWC provide affirming care for trans people? Is conversion therapy or any other trans/homo-phobic treatment used? 

We use only evidence based medicine standards and treatments and they do NOT include conversion therapy. The GWC does not dictate anyone’s gender, nor challenge it. We aim to provide safe space, peer support, and guidance based on current WPATH guidelines.  

 

If I come to GWC for therapy, can the government get access to my medical records? 

If our records are subpoenaed by a court, we have to comply. Barring that unlikely occurrence, no, the government cannot access your medical records.  

 

Does GWC’s documentation process require an individual to carry a diagnosis of “gender dysphoria?” 

No. Many people have multiple billable diagnoses. As long as there’s another billable diagnosis, Gender Dysphoria does not need to be listed in the diagnosis section of your chart.  

 

If I’m still under my parents’ health insurance, can they see on their bill or EOB that I am receiving services related to being trans? 

No. They will see that you are receiving services from The Heartwood Program and that the CPT codes reflect group therapy. They will be able to see diagnosis codes, but as long as there is another billable diagnosis code, Gender Dysphoria does not need to be listed.  

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If I have received a diagnosis of “gender dysphoria,” will that appear in my records at GWC? 

As long as you have another billable diagnosis code, no it does not have to. There are many billable codes, including for anxiety, depression, ADHD, adjustment disorder, and many other things. (The current state of our country would make almost anyone who identifies as trans meet criteria for anxiety or acute stress) 

 

Will my access to mental health care be limited in any way because I’m trans? 

Absolutely not! 

 

Will my chosen name and pronouns be used in my treatment and paperwork at GWC? 

In interpersonal interactions we will use the name and pronouns you use. In the official chart, your legal name and preferred name will both appear.  

 

Can I receive endocrinology or surgical treatment at the GWC?  

Unfortunately, not at this time. We refer out for those services and have extensive referral networks we can use to help you secure access to these important treatments, as well as other services like electrolysis and vocal training.  

 

How does GWC support clients through transitions like hormone therapy or surgeries? 

We support GWC clients through transitions by providing group/community connections that are essential for growth and change of all kinds. We offer individual consultation as needed for specific questions, and refer outto only vetted resources for endocrinology, surgery, and  other medical transition services. Our parent support groups are essential for ensuring that people have adequate support from their families.  

 

What types of therapy or counseling do you offer? 

The therapy we provide is gender and sexuality affirming. Our clinicians are guided by the WPATH 8 standards of care. The primary mode of therapy in the Gender Wellness Clinic is group therapy. Group provides the peer support, insight, and community needed for healing and identity growth. We refer out for individual therapy, psychiatry, endocrinology, surgery, electrolysis, etc.  

 

How do I start the process to access gender-affirming mental health care? 

Go to theheartwoodprogram.com and click on the link to request an intake appointment. You will speak with an intake coordinator who can answer your questions and connect you with the appropriate program and therapist. 

 

Does the GWC provide individual therapists as part of mental health care? 

No, not directly. We provide assessments and group services. Our sister program, Healthy Foundations Group, does provide individual therapy. We can guide you to connect with a gender-affirming therapist there.  

 

Do GWC clinicians have competence with neurodiversity? 

Yes! We are always learning, but do require competence and respect for all types of diversity, including neuro-diversity. Please let us know how to best accommodate your individual needs.