At Desert Lotus Counseling, we are proud to offer gender affirming care letters for individuals seeking access to gender-affirming medical care.
Our goal is to make this process simple, accessible, and affirming — never a barrier to your well-being.
We believe that your identity, expression, and journey are valid. You deserve care that respects who you are and supports your right to access the medical and emotional resources you need to live authentically.
Our Approach
Our process is rooted in affirmation, accessibility, and respect. We recognize that seeking gender-affirming care can sometimes feel vulnerable or frustrating, especially when unnecessary gatekeeping creates obstacles. At Desert Lotus Counseling, we aim to make this step as smooth and supportive as possible.
You can expect:
One appointment to complete the assessment and provide your letter (in most cases).
A collaborative, affirming conversation focused on your goals and needs — not a test or evaluation.
The option to bill insurance or pay on a pay-what-you-can basis to ensure accessibility.
Letters written in alignment with WPATH-informed best practices, centered on your autonomy and self-knowledge.
We are committed to helping you move forward in your transition with clarity, support, and dignity.
Gender Affirming Care Letters
At Desert Lotus Counseling, we are proud to offer gender affirming care letters for clients seeking access to gender-affirming procedures. Our approach is grounded in respect, accessibility, and affirmation — we believe that gender diversity is a natural and beautiful expression of humanity, and that you shouldn’t face unnecessary barriers to care. Our letter process is simple, supportive, and focused on your autonomy. In most cases, we can provide a letter in one appointment after a collaborative and affirming assessment.
Who it’s for:
This service is for transgender, nonbinary, and gender-expansive individuals seeking a gender affirming care letter for surgeries, or legal changes. We provide this service for current Desert Lotus clients as well as new clients reaching out specifically for a letter. Please note: We can only provide these assessments for Arizona residents. If you live outside of Arizona, please reach out and we would be happy to provide you with referrals.
Pricing:
We are committed to making this process accessible and affordable. We offer a pay-what-you-can sliding scale, and insurance billing is available when applicable.
Insurance:
Coverage for this service may vary by plan and provider. We are contracted with Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and United Healthcare, and can help you verify benefits prior to scheduling.
Other Details:
Our clinicians follow WPATH-informed and affirming guidelines while centering your voice, story, and needs. We aim to make this process as respectful, efficient, and affirming as possible — without unnecessary gatekeeping or judgment.
Letters are typically completed in one session, and we are happy to coordinate directly with your medical provider as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Seeking a gender affirming care letter is an important step in your journey, and we want the process to feel clear, supportive, and respectful. At Desert Lotus Counseling, our goal is to make this experience as accessible and affirming as possible — so you can focus on what truly matters: living authentically and caring for yourself.
Do you provide letters for new clients?
Yes. We provide gender affirming care letters for both current Desert Lotus clients and new clients who are reaching out specifically for this service. If you’re new to us, you can schedule a one-time appointment for the letter evaluation — no ongoing therapy required (unless you choose to continue).
What does the process look like?
Our process is designed to be simple, affirming, and collaborative.
You’ll meet with a licensed therapist for a one-appointment evaluation, either in person or via secure telehealth. During this session, we’ll discuss your goals, your gender identity journey, and any relevant aspects of your physical or mental health history.
After your appointment, your therapist will prepare and provide your letter — typically within one week.
What kinds of letters do you write?
We provide letters for a range of gender affirming medical care needs.
All letters meet WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) standards and are written with care and respect for your identity and autonomy.
What does it cost?
Do you take insurance?
Do I have to start therapy with you after the letter?
You’re welcome to work with your therapist for ongoing support around identity, transition, mental health, or other areas of life — but the choice is entirely yours.
Do you offer telehealth or virtual sessions?
Yes. We offer secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth sessions for clients throughout Arizona. This means you can complete your gender affirming care letter appointment from the comfort of your home or any private space.
Who do you work with?
We work with adults 18+ across Arizona, with a focus on LGBTQIA+ and gender diverse communities. Our therapists provide trauma-informed, inclusive, and affirming care that honors your lived experience and supports your autonomy in all aspects of your identity.
What if I’m nervous or unsure what to expect?
That’s completely okay. Many people feel uncertain before reaching out — especially if they’ve had to advocate for themselves in the past. Our therapists are experienced in this process and will meet you with warmth, respect, and validation. We’ll explain each step clearly so you know what to expect and can feel grounded and supported throughout.