At Wholesome Psychology, we trust that everyone is deserving of a safe space that feels supportive and affirming. This safe space will allow for you to investigate and appreciate your own individual experiences. 5 alpha reductase deficiency (5ARD) is a rare intersex condition that can affect an individual's gender identity, development and mental health. Wholesome's specific counselling approach in Edmonton and St.Albert is designed to promote empathetic and compassionate support for Children, families and individuals who are handling the intricate journey of 5 alpha reductase deficiency.
What is 5 Alpha Reductase Deficiency?
5 alpha reductase deficiency is a genetic condition affecting the body’s ability to convert testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that plays a crucial role in developing male attributes while in the womb and during puberty. People with 5ARD may be assigned female at birth but will often start to have increased masculine features and tendencies at puberty. This often results in struggling socially, emotionally and mentally.
5ARD may include:
- Differences in external genital development
- Changes in gender identity or expression during youth years
- Feeling socially isolated and misconceived.
- Anxiety, depression, or struggles with gender and gender identity
Psychological and Emotional Impacts of 5ARD
Handling 5 alpha reductase deficiency can be taxing, especially when many shame, stigmas and misunderstanding from others persevere. Individuals, families and children may struggle and question the following issues:
- Trouble navigating gender identity and expectations
- Grapple with explaining their conditions to friends, peers and extended family.
- Mental health issues such as body image issues/dysmorphia, depression and anxiety.
- Obstacles at work or school that relate to their identity or physical changes.
Our Edmonton counseling team is devoted to providing support and therapeutic awareness to help navigate these challenges with empathy, kindness while using evidenced based techniques.
How Our Counseling Helps Individuals and Families with 5ARD
Wholesome Psychology offers a comprehensive and personalized approach to assist anyone affected by 5 alpha reductase deficiency. Our objectives include:
- Affirm individuals identities and promoting self-acceptance.
- Providing psychoeducation to help clients and families understand 5ARD and its emotional and psychological influence.
- Creating coping strategies for depression, anxiety, stress and body image issues.
- Supporting families and showing them how to provide caring, loving support throughout the different phases of development.
- Empowering children, and individuals to feel accomplished with who they are and their identities.
Our team understands the importance of promoting a sense of belonging and community. While respecting privacy and personal choices, we do our best to supply local resources and bridge individuals with peer and medical support when needed.
What to Expect From 5 Alpha Reductase Deficiency Counseling
Our professional and trauma-informed psychologists in Edmonton and St. Albert prioritize respectful, non-judgmental care. When attending Wholesome Psychology for 5ARD support you can ensure you are:
- Attending Confidential and Comprehensive sessions for individuals, children, teens, and families
- Receiving support to understand identity evolution and a safe space do discuss it
- Using applied tools to manage social stressors and relationships
- Getting guidance on navigating the healthcare system and ensuring you are able to advocate for you and your families needs.
- Receiving support for changes in your work, school or social role within the community.
At Wholesome Psychology, we are dedicated to respecting and understanding the unique strengths and principles each person includes in their journey. We work collaboratively to plan a counseling approach that centres around an individual's comfort, self-direction and health.
Our Psychologists and Inclusive Values
Each therapist at Wholesome Psychology is skilled in working with gender-diverse and intersex clients. We are committed to education and advocacy. To learn more about our versatile team and find the right match for your needs, please visit our page with our therapists.
Support for Youth and Families in Edmonton & St. Albert
Adolescents, children, and family members of those with 5 alpha reductase deficiency may have questions or worries. Our therapists can:
- Assist with humble family conversations around gender identity or transitions.
- Provide parental guidance to encourage open communication, acceptance and understanding.
- Correlate with medical providers and schools to ensure ongoing support.
- Create tailored counseling strategies for adolescents who are navigating relationships with peers and family members.
We strive to create loving and accepting environments that allow individuals to thrive and feel empowered with the person they are.
Related Services and Resources
Our office welcomes anyone seeking support for difficult or complex circumstances. Here are a few other topics that may relate to you:
We also have a full list of services that may assist you in your search.
Book a 5 Alpha Reductase Deficiency Counseling Session
If you are seeking support for 5ARD, our clinic provides a safe and understanding space to allow open and effective communication while creating coping strategies to navigate the challenges faced due to 5ARD. To book an appointment or to find out more, contact our Edmonton and St. Albert clinics.
References: Kumar, G. (2022, October 17). 5-alpha-reductase deficiency. StatPearls [Internet]. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539904/
