Self Discovery & Identity
The self-discovery process, clinically referred to as the self-reflective identity process, is the exploration one goes through to cultivate an understanding of parts of themselves during a significant life change.
Your self-discovery process may involve different levels that reflect your unique individual and relational experiences and dynamics. For some, self-discovery can lead to adopting new identity labels; for others, self-discovery may result in reaffirmation of previously held identities.
Self-discovery can involve engagement and/or reengagement with new roles and/or systems of support.
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​You may have questions about and experiences related to yourself, your relationships, community, family, and/or society.​​
Regardless of outcomes, going through the process of self-discovery can offer an opportunity to experience clarity and understanding about yourself, your relationship, and your needs.
Identity Negotiation
Some intimate partners of transgender people have new and/or changing questions about their own identities.
For Example:
You may wonder who you are if your partner is transgender.
You may have questions about your sexuality and/or
gender. For some, this feels like "co-transitioning" with their
transgender partner.
You may not feel clear about your role in the relationship and wonder if it has changed.
You may have questions about intimacy and sex in your
relationship.​​
Going through this process may result in a new and comfortable sense of self.
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​​Identity formation is a lifelong process.
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Identity can be fluid and change over time.
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Your partner's identity does not necessarily determine who you are.​
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Questions about identity are very common, regardless of the identity of one's partner.
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It is not harmful to your transgender partner to ask questions about your own identity.
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Reaching out for support is important. ​​
It is important to remember
"In the depth of winter, I finally learned that there was in me an invincible summer."
​​Albert Camus
