Hearing trans voices: authenticity and identity in voice change and the intersectional role of speech and language therapy and psychology

Voice is the means by which what is known to us – our thoughts, ideas and feelings are heard and shared within the context of social relationships. It is a critical indicator of physiological and psychological well-being; it... [ view full abstract ]

Voice is the means by which what is known to us – our thoughts, ideas and feelings are heard and shared within the context of social relationships. It is a critical indicator of physiological and psychological well-being; it carries cues about our gender, education, culture, the area, region or country we grew up in. In specialist speech and language therapy, voice is explored in terms of understanding and potentially changing vocal aspects of pitch, resonance and intonation, but the wider journey, the acquisition of these skills in working towards more comfortable, congruent gender expression also involves grappling with the paradox of change, being vocally and communicatively authentic, and developing skills of self-efficacy, self-acceptance and resilience, bringing it also into the area of specialist gender psychology.

At Charing Cross Gender Identity Clinic, Psychology and Speech and Language Therapy have established a regular joint peer consultation group to disseminate knowledge and skills and work more closely together supporting clients... [ view full abstract ]

At Charing Cross Gender Identity Clinic, Psychology and Speech and Language Therapy have established a regular joint peer consultation group to disseminate knowledge and skills and work more closely together supporting clients using both services. In this workshop we will discuss how both disciplines work to support and facilitate clients towards greater authenticity within a context of significant life, personal and often physical changes which can impact on intersectional identities, the sense of self and what we have to offer each other. We will make reference to specific work experiences and solutions, drawing on participants’ knowledge and experience to explore relevant European similarities and differences relating to the workshop theme, with a view to fostering close multi-disciplinary working within and across gender services

Evaluation feedback form will be given to participants. [ view full abstract ]

Evaluation feedback form will be given to participants.