2SLGBTQIA+

Are you, or is someone you’re worried about, a member of Nova Scotia’s LGBTQ+ community? There are programs and services available that were created specifically to address the unique concerns of people in this community.

Healing the wounds of prejudice 

Research shows that LGBTQ+ people have higher rates of mental health challenges than the general population, typically as a result of facing ongoing discrimination over their lifetimes. But we also know that having allies makes all the difference. 

LGBTQ+ people and mental health

Key factors for positive mental health and wellbeing for LGBTQ+ individuals include support from family and friends, particularly for youth; supportive workplaces and neighbourhoods; low levels of internalized homophobia; and experiencing positive responses to coming out.

This article from the Canadian Mental Health Association offers insight and additional resources for anyone who can use a hand.

Gender Affirming Care

We proudly provides Gender Affirming Care for transgender and gender-diverse people across the lifespan, as well as their families and caregivers. Our goal is to affirm individuals’ gender identity, reduce distress, and improve overall well-being. Gender Affirming Care can include social, legal, and medical supports. Specific information on services can be found below. 

Gender Affirming Care within the Mental Health and Addictions Program follows recognized best practice standards, including the World Professional Association for Transgender Health Standards of Care (version 8), and the Nova Scotia Gender Affirming Care Policy. We also align with government priorities as identified in the Nova Scotia Office of Equity and Anti-Racism's 2SLGBTQIA+ Action Plan and operate in partnership with prideHealth.  

WPATH & Readiness Assessments 

The Mental Health and Addictions Program is guided by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Standards of Care (version 8) in our provision of Gender Affirming Care services. WPATH recommends readiness assessments (also known as psychosocial assessments) for some aspects of Gender Affirming Care. Readiness assessments involve a trained provider working with an individual and their families/caregivers, when possible, to explore gender identity, identify embodiment/transition goals, share information about benefits and risks of treatment options, and liaise with other supports available within community. Readiness assessments are an important component of holistic Gender Affirming Care and can help inform and provide recommendations for medical care.  

Readiness assessments are required for all youth seeking medical Gender Affirming Care services within Nova Scotia. Readiness assessments are also required for adults seeking Gender Affirming surgeries covered by MSI in Nova Scotia. More information can be found on the Government of NS Gender Affirming Care Information page. 

How to Access Readiness Assessments 

To access a readiness assessment through the Mental Health and Addictions Program, please contact Central Intake at 1-855-922-1122 or book an appointment online. 

Adult Gender Affirming Care Services 

Adults can access Gender Affirming Care services with trained MHAP clinicians, including psychosocial / readiness assessments for gender affirming surgical applications. Other services available as part of the community Mental Health and Addictions program include 2SLGBTQIA+ affirmative therapies, such as the Rainbow UP group. 

Accessing Gender Affirming Care through the Mental Health and Addictions Program: To learn more about Gender Affirming Care services offered through the Mental Health and Addictions Program, please contact Central Intake at 1-855-922-1122 or book an appointment online. 

Child & Adolescent Gender Affirming Care Services 

Children and youth can access support around gender identity, gender dysphoria/incongruence and social aspects of gender transition through the Mental Health and Addictions Program within Child & Adolescent Community Mental Health and through school mental health programs such as, SchoolsPlus Mental Health Clinicians and Adolescent Outreach Services. Family and caregiver support is also an important element in the well-being of transgender and gender diverse youth and is available the through Mental Health and Addictions Program. 

Gender Affirming Care Clinics 

The Gender Affirming Care clinics provide care to youth and their families/caregivers in welcoming and affirming spaces, taking a holistic and evidence-based approach to care. The clinics involve an interdisciplinary team that can include pediatricians, primary health care providers, nurses, social workers, pharmacists, community outreach workers, mental health clinicians, and admin staff. The care team works together to support each client’s well-being and care goals. Before accessing a Gender Affirming Care Clinic, youth must complete a readiness assessment and receive a referral from a primary health care provider. 

Accessing Gender Affirming Care through the Mental Health and Addictions Program: To learn more about Gender Affirming Care services offered through the Mental Health and Addictions Program, please contact Central Intake at 1-855-922-1122 or book an appointment online. 

Helpful Gender Affirming Care links:

• NS GAC Policy  

• Government of NS Gender Affirming Care Information 

• Nova Scotia Office of Equity and Anti-Racism's 2SLGBTQIA+ Action Plan 

• WPATH Standards of Care for the Health of Transgender and Gender Diverse People, Version 8 

• Fostering inclusive healthcare in Kentville: the launch of a new Gender Affirming Care Clinic | Nova Scotia Health 

• IWK Gender Affirming Care Services