Mental Health Care Experiences of Trans Service Members and Veterans: A Mixed-Methods Study

Published In

Journal of Counseling and Development

Document Type

Citation

Publication Date

7-1-2021

Abstract

We explored mental health care experiences of trans service members and veterans (TSMVs) through a mixed-methods, convergent parallel design. Quantitative survey data from 50 TSMVs were analyzed using paired-samples t tests to identify differences in perceived stigma and barriers to care in accessing services from nonmilitary versus military-affiliated or Veteran's Health Administration providers (MVAPs). We conducted semistructured interviews with 10 participants, exploring their lived experiences in accessing mental health care from both nonmilitary providers and MVAPs. Integrated mixed-methods results indicate TSMVs are more concerned about anti-trans stigma when accessing care from MVAPs, whereas logistical concerns inform access to nonmilitary providers. Key themes shaping participants' mental health care experiences were (a) access to trans competent care, (b) fear/fear of consequences, (c) therapeutic relationship, (d) transition-related factors, and (e) milita

Rights

© 2021 by the American Counseling Association. All rights reserved.

DOI

10.1002/jcad.12374

Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/35983

Share

COinS