Elective Years 3 and 4: Transgender Mental Health

University of Alberta Students: Contact: Amanda Nicholls ni4@ualberta.ca
Visiting Canadian Medical Students:visitingelectives@ualberta.ca

This elective provides the student with exposure to assessing Gender Dysphoria in the gender-diverse population. During the elective, students will have the opportunity to assess and diagnose Gender Dysphoria as well as a wide range of psychiatric conditions. They will see the journey of the patient from diagnosis to referrals on to gender-affirming interventions.

In this elective, you will do psychiatric assessments in the Gender Program at the U of A under the direct supervision of a gender specialist and a specialist gender nurse.

Knowledge to Gain

1. Gain an understanding of gender diversity
2. Understand assessment and the WPATH Standards of Care
3. Describe common illnesses in the gender-diverse population. Their symptoms, signs, diagnosis, assessment and treatment
4. Understand Gender Dysphoria and the role of gender-affirming interventions
5. Understand the role of other professionals and specialties in managing Gender Dysphoria

Skills to Acquire

Skills for assessing Gender Dysphoria, psychiatric problems and development of a treatment plan specific to the individual's transition.

Attitudes to Learn

Appreciation of the importance of gateway psychiatric assessment as well as the burden of psychiatric morbidity within the transgender population.

Prerequisites

No prerequisites necessary but prefer completion of general psychiatry rotation.

Students must request access for Netcare and eClinician a minimum of 6 weeks before the elective start date.