Gender variance is a term that refers to those expressions of gender (masculinity  and femininity) that do not conform to the dominant gender norms of Western culture.  It is a term used in the fields of psychology, psychiatry, anthropology, and gender studies, as well as advocacy groups of gender variant people themselves. It is deliberately broad, encompassing such specific terms as transsexual, transgender, transvestite, third gender, gender-queer, intersex, etc.

Gender variance is becoming a common presenting issue in counselling and psychotherapy contexts, yet many practitioners may not have had any specific training or experience of working with gender minorities.

The following is a list of resources to help practitioners begin to understand gender variance and to raise awareness of transgender people and their lives.

1.  An Introduction to working with transgender people

2.  Guidance for GPs, other clinicians and health professionals on the care of gender variant people

3.  Coming Out as Transgender

4.  Transgender Experiences: Information & Support

5.  Answers to your questions about transgender individuals & gender identity

6.  Gender Identity 101: A transgender primer

7.  Gender Essence Support Service
Belfast-based counselling and support organisation that also offers training on trans issues.

8.  Belfast Butterfly Club
A social/support organisation for transgender people and their families.