For transgender and nonbinary individuals, accessing gender-affirming mental health care isn’t just about comfort—it’s often a matter of survival.
Studies consistently show that gender-affirming care—care that respects and supports a person’s gender identity—can significantly reduce depression, anxiety, and suicide risk among transgender individuals.
A 2022 study published in JAMA Network Open found that transgender and nonbinary youth who received gender-affirming care had significantly lower odds of developing moderate to severe depression and were less likely to attempt suicide.
At McLean Hospital, creating safe, supportive, and identity-affirming spaces for transgender and gender-diverse individuals is an ongoing and deeply intentional effort.
“At McLean, we are committed to delivering the highest quality psychiatric care in an environment that is inclusive and respectful of all identities,” said Susan Szulewski, MD, MBA, chief medical officer.
“We understand that each patient and family presents with unique clinical needs, so our programs are structured to provide personalized, evidence-based treatment that meets individuals where they are and supports their long-term well-being.”
What Gender-Affirming Care Looks Like at McLean
While McLean is not a provider of gender-affirming medical interventions (such as hormone therapy or surgery), the hospital incorporates best practices in gender-affirming mental health care across its programs, including:
Respect for Names and Pronouns
Every patient is addressed in accordance with their affirmed name and pronouns, and this information is shared respectfully among clinical teams.
Staff Training
Ongoing education is provided to clinicians and staff across McLean’s programs to ensure understanding of gender identity, inclusive language, and the unique mental health risks facing transgender and gender-diverse individuals.
Specialized Programming
In programs like 3East, which serves adolescents struggling with emotional dysregulation, and the Gunderson Residence, which treats adults with complex personality and mood disorders, clinicians are equipped to address the intersections of gender identity and mental health. Patients are met with compassion—not questioning—and treatment plans are tailored to affirm identity, not pathologize it.
Trauma-Informed Care
Many transgender individuals experience higher rates of trauma, including bullying, physical violence, sexual abuse, and medical mistreatment. McLean’s clinicians are trained to recognize and respond to this trauma sensitively, integrating it into the therapeutic process.
Why This Approach Is Critical
Transgender and nonbinary individuals are at exceptionally high risk for mental health conditions—not because of their identity, but because of the trauma, stigma, and rejection they endure.
Without affirming care, these individuals often delay or avoid seeking mental health treatment altogether, fearing discrimination, misgendering, or worse.
“By offering gender-affirming mental health support, McLean not only helps individuals cope with distress—it helps build a foundation of self-worth, safety, and trust,” said Szulewski. “This allows patients to fully engage in treatment, develop resilience, and reclaim a sense of agency over their lives.”
If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health symptoms, call us today at 617.855.3141 to talk about treatment options.
