An Exclusive Interview with Dr. Diane Ehrensaft: The John Lennon of Pediatric Gender Care

Shrinks Rap

An Exclusive Interview with Dr. Diane Ehrensaft, a.k.a., the John Lennon of Pediatric Gender Care
Dr. Jim sits down with the prolific and brilliant Dr. Diane Ehrensaft, a leading expert in pediatric gender care who envisions a more inclusive world for gender expression. A scholar, psychologist in private practice, author, child advocate, parent coach, and UCSF researcher, she plays a pivotal role in advancing cutting-edge gender-affirming care for children and adolescents.
In this episode, Dr. Ehrensaft discusses her latest book, Gender Explained, co-authored with Michelle Jerkiewicz, Psy.D. She tackles the persistent myths surrounding gender care and compares transphobia today to the outdated beliefs of flat earthers. Like John Lennon, she dares to imagine a future of greater acceptance and understanding, predicated on love, empathy, truth, and caring.
With humor, she reflects on the challenges of her field, joking that, given the current political climate, life might have been easier had she pursued dance instead of psychology. She also speaks candidly about the archaic and transphobic policies emerging from Project 25 and the ongoing battle to ensure access to gender-affirming care.
Dr. Ehrensaft's research explores the development and psychological experiences of transgender, nonbinary, and gender-expansive youth. She is actively involved in studies on the developmental pathways of gender-diverse children before puberty and the mental health outcomes of those who choose puberty blockers or gender-affirming hormones.
Stick around until the end of the episode. Dr. Ehrensaft takes on University of Michigan trivia with enthusiasm. Go Blue!

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