Trans in treatment: a mixed-method systematic review on the psychotherapeutic experiences of transgender and gender diverse people

Transgender and/or non-binary (TNB) individuals encounter a variety of attitudes from mental healthcare professionals in therapeutic contexts, ranging from microaffirmations to the reinforcement of cis- and heteronormative stereotypes and even overtly invalidating behaviors or communications. Given the scarcity of literature addressing the therapeutic experiences of TNB individuals, the current mixed-method systematic review aimed at better understanding the factors that promote or adversely impact the therapeutic experiences of TNB individuals in clinical contexts. A comprehensive search for relevant records published before August 1, 2024, was conducted across four databases (i.e., Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, PsycInfo), following PRISMA guidelines. The inclusion criteria specified that only peer-reviewed, indexed, English-language articles addressing the therapeutic experiences of TNB individuals would be selected. A total of 20 studies (both quantitative and qualitative) met these criteria. A meta-synthesis of the selected studies identified three main themes: (1) factors influencing therapist selection and reasons for seeking psychotherapy (e.g., quality of life, gender-specific concerns); (2) factors contributing to a positive therapeutic relationship (a nurturing therapeutic alliance that, e.g., acknowledges authentic gender and addresses intersectional stigma); and (3) factors contributing to negative encounters with mental healthcare providers (e.g., micro- and/or macroaggressions, inadequate trans-specific knowledge, pathologization of TNB identities). Recommendations for future research and clinical practice addressing the needs of TNB individuals in psychotherapy are provided.