Grief, Loss, and Identity: A Phenomenological Study of Transgender Experiences During Transition

Grief related to transitioning among transgender individuals is underexplored, with literature primarily focusing on grief experienced by family members or partners or external losses transgender individuals face. This study addresses the gap, exploring the grief experienced by 14 transgender people during transition. Six themes emerged: (a) Navigating Shame and Oppression, (b) Intangible Grief and Loss, (c) Spectrum of Emotions and Coping Strategies, (d) Loss of Relationships, (e) Navigating Others’ Grief, and (f) Advocacy as a Response to Grief and Oppression. Findings emphasize the need for counselors to validate the unique grief experiences of transgender clients. Recommendations for counselors are provided.