Clinical mentorship call
Join our weekly, virtual lunch-hour meeting to learn about providing care to trans, Two-Spirit or non-binary people. Every Thursday from 12:10–1:00 p.m. (Pacific Time)
Join the weekly discussion
These weekly calls are for health care professionals supporting trans, Two-Spirit A term used within some Indigenous communities to reflect complex Indigenous understandings of gender and sexuality and the long history of sexual and gender diversity in Indigenous cultures. Two-Spirit encompasses sexual, gender, cultural and spiritual identity. It may refer to cross-gender, multi-gender or non-binary gender roles, non-heterosexual identities, and a range of cultural identities, roles and practices embodied by Two-Spirit peoples. Some people also use "2-Spirit" or "2S." (Source: Battered Women’s Support Services) and non-binary Umbrella term referring to people whose gender does not fall within the binary gender system of woman/girl or man/boy. Some individuals identify as non-binary while others may use terms such as gender non-conforming, genderqueer, or agender. Non-binary people may or may not conform to societal expectations for their gender expression and gender role, and they may or may not seek gender-affirming medical or surgical care. (TTNB) people with an interest in learning from others' clinical experiences.
We encourage participants to bring questions, clinical scenarios, and share insights from their experiences in practice. Mentors will offer their expertise, facilitate discussion, and answer questions.
The topics for the weekly calls vary depending on participant feedback and rotate regularly, including themes such as:
- Medical care (such as primary care, gynecological care, surgery, and hormones)
- Child, youth and family care
- Psychosocial care
- Readiness assessments and care planning Process that a person, their health care providers, family and other supporters undertake in planning to reach their gender-affirming care goals.
- Special topics (such as ethics, legal, intersecting identities and experiences, peer and community supports, and more)
The views expressed during the Clinical Mentorship Call series do not necessarily reflect those of Trans Care BC.
Sign up for the series
If you would like to be involved, e-mail trans.edu@phsa.ca. We will add you to the distribution list for regular updates and access to the weekly virtual call.
Upcoming mentors
October 17, 2024
Eryn Price (she/her) – Registered Massage Therapist
Join us to learn from RMT Eryn Price, who will teach about managing scar tissue after gender-affirming upper surgeries. The session will include practical advice for patients post-surgery, such as self-care at home, starting self-massage, and managing scar tissue.
October 24, 2024
Matsui De Roo (they/them) – Clinical Counsellor
Join Matsui to learn about helping clients prepare for the emotional and practical aspects of gender-affirming surgeries. Matsui will cover how to help clients build their support systems, navigate more complex surgical journeys, and foster resilience during the healing process.
October 31, 2024
Adrienne Smith (they/them) – Lawyer
Adrienne will speak about recent changes to the BC Name Act, highlighting the new restrictions on who can legally change their name in BC. The talk will cover issues with the previous system, potential complications and some recommendations for improvement. Time permitting, Adrienne will also provide insight into recent changes to the Mental Health Act and its implications for involuntary treatment. Understanding these legal shifts is important in navigating name changes and advocating for client rights.
November 1, 2024
No call scheduled
Gender-Affirming Relational Practice is a new, non-clinical course that combines clinical practice, relational practice, and gender-affirming care principles to improve access and suitability of care for trans, Two-Spirit, and non-binary clients.
November 7, 2024
No call scheduled
Trans Care BC has a suite of downloadable resources to help providers create clinical environments that are affirming and culturally safe for trans, Two-Spirit and non-binary people.
November 14, 2024
Cathy Maser (she/her) – Paediatric Nurse Practitioner
Join Cathy Maser to learn about developmental changes that occur in early, middle, and late adolescence. We will discuss brain development during these stages and how it influences behavior, decision-making, and communication. Learn strategies for effectively engaging with adolescents and adapting conversations to match their growth and identity development.
November 21, 2024
Lu Lam (they/he) – Somatic Counsellor & Mindfulness Consultant
In recognition of Trans Day of Remembrance, Lu Lam will provide an opportunity to explore the power of joy in sustaining compassionate care for our communities. This experiential session will offer practices to tend to grief, cultivate resilience, and foster joy in our work with Two-Spirit, trans, and non binary (TTNB) individuals. As we navigate the challenges of November, let’s focus on self-care and community support. Bring a story or object that nourishes your joy, as we come together to honor the strength and beauty of TTNB people.
November 28, 2024
Sharmeen Mazaheri (she/her) – Family Physician
Join us to learn about cardiovascular health in TTNB individuals. This call will discuss the unique considerations of gender-affirming hormone therapy in cardiovascular care, along with the importance of trauma-informed, harm-reduction, and shared decision-making approaches. The discussion will also cover baseline screenings, cardiovascular risk factors, and strategies to support health equity and informed care for TTNB individuals.
December 5, 2024
No call scheduled
Gender-Affirming Relational Practice is a new, non-clinical course that combines clinical practice, relational practice, and gender-affirming care principles to improve access and suitability of care for trans, Two-Spirit, and non-binary clients.
December 12, 2024
Karina Zeidler (she/her) – Family Physician
Dr. Karina Zeidler will speak about the disproportionate impact of post-COVID conditions on TTNB communities. Karina will discuss the intersectionality between gender-affirming care and disability justice, addressing compounded challenges such as healthcare trauma and complex symptomology. She will also share resources and insights to support equitable and inclusive care.
Contact our team of health navigators for information about referral pathways and resources for you and your patients.