Will Williams, a therapist in Oakland, observes the psychological consequences of recent executive orders targeting transgender rights on his clients. Many express fear as policies threaten their existence. With a background in trans identity, Williams emphasizes the importance of interpersonal connection in therapy, using prompts like asking how it feels to be with another trans person to reinforce their validity. As therapists adapt to this politically charged climate, some openly integrate their political beliefs to support clients grappling with distress from these developments, challenging traditional norms that separate therapy from political discourse.
There's this literal embodied experience of 'Oh I'm a target,' said Williams, who is trans. We are the 1% that is going to be targeted and blamed.
Therapists are learning beside their clients as they navigate a profession plunged into uncharted territory during a tense second Trump term.
You're taught in school that therapists aren't supposed to be political, but it's very political, one liberal practitioner said. Now we're like, Screw that.
The medicine is in that, Williams says, reminding clients that yes, they both exist, even in the face of erasure.
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