In this episode of the Colleague Down the Hall Podcast, Jeanene Wolfe introduces Dara Hoffman, a non-binary, queer-identified licensed counselor with 18 years of experience serving the trans and non-binary community. Dara shares key insights on supporting LGBTQ clients, addressing microaggressions, and creating inclusive therapy spaces. Dara delves into the importance of using correct pronouns, handling mistakes such as misgendering your client, and promoting safety and trust. Dara emphasizes continuous learning, cultural humility, and the need for therapists to stay informed about evolving standards of care. This episode offers valuable guidance for therapists looking to be affirming and inclusive providers.

“Honestly, the fear and the self doubt can really paralyze a therapist from being able to even start working with these clients, referring these clients out too soon, where, really checking in to say, Okay, this is really just because I’m uncomfortable, not because this person’s trans, I just don’t want to mess up. And that’s a point of where more so sticking with your client, especially if you’ve known them for a while, and turns out they’re like, ‘I can finally tell my therapist I’m trans’, but being able to recognize that is a point where you need education or consultation to be able to move forward with that client. If the client would like to have a different therapist, that’s a different story, but be careful not to refer out too soon.”– Dara Hoffman

Key points:

***Use Correct Pronouns and Names: It is critical for therapists to gather and use clients’ correct names and pronouns from the beginning to avoid microaggressions. Misgendering and using incorrect or gendered language can derail sessions and harm clients’ sense of safety.

***Be Culturally Humble: Therapists should balance understanding their clients as individuals while acknowledging their trans identity without hyper-focusing on it unless relevant. If a mistake is made, it’s important for therapists to recognize it, process it after the session, and address it if needed in future sessions.

***Create an Inclusive Space: Inclusive office practices, such as displaying LGBTQ flags and addressing restroom policies, contribute to a safer environment for clients.

***Continuing Ed: Engage in continuous learning and consult colleagues rather than referring clients out too quickly.

***Stay Updated on Standards of Care: Therapists need to remain informed on evolving standards, such as requirements for gender-affirming surgeries or hormone use, by consulting resources like WPATH.

About Dara Hoffman:

Dara Hoffman (they/them) is a nonbinary, queer-identified licensed professional counselor in Colorado Springs, Colorado who has 18 years of experience serving the trans and nonbinary community. As the author of YOU AND YOUR GENDER IDENTITY: A GUIDE TO DISCOVERY, Dara has been recognized nationally as an expert trainer and presenter, sharing their knowledge with organizations, businesses, and conferences across the country.

Currently, Dara provides supervision to interns and licensure candidates and works as a contract trainer and facilitator for various organizations. After closing their private practice two and a half years ago, Dara is in a transformative period, taking intentional steps toward new ventures that resonate deeply with their life’s purpose. As they navigate their own health challenges, Dara is committed to honoring this journey, knowing it will shape and inform the meaningful work they will offer in the future.

Dara lives in Colorado Springs with their cat, Mew and can be found frolicking in hot springs, drum circles and karaoke bars, studying astrology, and hosting gatherings at their home for their beautiful circle of friends.

Connect with Dara:

Website: https://darahoffmanfox.com/

Email: darahoffman222@gmail.com

To get updates about future consultation groups: www.CollabOasis.com/FCC_live