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Jonathan Bosworth Counselling Psychologist Johannesburg
16 Seventh Avenue
​Melville
Johannesburg
2092

Mobile: 083 703 5121
Email: [email protected]

New Johannesburg-based Transgender Support Group

11/4/2014

54 Comments

 
Healthcare professions often play an integral part in a transgender person's transitioning.  This may include aiding the individual in better understanding their gender identity, planning what a transition will mean for that individual, dealing with the adjustments that are inherent to a transition or providing medical care (such as hormones or surgery).  Frequently, healthcare professionals also provide a supportive role, such as through check-ups or through counselling and psychotherapy.


In addition to the assistance provided by healthcare professionals the support and resources contributed by other trans people is becoming more and more evident in transitionings.  The explosion of the internet and access to the internet has enabled previously isolated individuals to connect with one another.  Websites, blogs, online forums, instant messaging and other online platforms allow for rapid sharing of information and support (obviously with caution being necessary with regards to the reliability of information and the nature of privacy.  There are certain things for which the opinion and guidance of the healthcare professional cannot be substituted).  However, despite the empowering boom in trans resources by trans persons many trans people still find it hard to find and meet with other trans people in safe spaces.


A much-needed support group for trans people by trans people, CtrlAltGender, has recently been started at Wits University in Johannesburg:  

"He? She? For some of us, gender is not so simple. For Trans* People by Trans* People. CtrlAltGender is a trans* advocacy, activism and support group. It is based at the University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) in Johannesburg but is by no means limited to Wits students/staff. Its main role is to provide a safe and secure trans* space to provide support and guidance to the trans* community within the local Joburg area. Beyond that the group functions to challenge cissexism within the university and the community at large.

Trans* is an umbrella term that refers to all of the identities within the gender identity spectrum. There’s a ton of diversity there, but we often group them all together (e.g., when we say “trans* issues). Trans (without the asterisk) is best applied to trans men and trans women, while the asterisk makes special note in an effort to include all non-cisgender gender identities, including transgender, transsexual, transvestite, genderqueer, genderfluid, non-binary, genderfuck, genderless, agender, non-gendered, third gender, two-spirit, bigender, and trans man and trans woman."

Any queries about the group can be directed to Jocelyn ([email protected]). The group also has a Facebook page and a Twitter account.
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54 Comments
Richard
5/5/2014 10:31:07 am

Hi
I recently came out to family and friends that I'm transgender. I've been living like this since the age of 5. I'm looking for any groups, support groups that meet in Joburg as I live in Parktown North.

Thanks

Regards

Richard

Reply
MICHAEL link
19/3/2018 05:18:16 am

HI richard how are u doing i am also looking for a female seport group in jhb east rand

Reply
Cassandra
11/8/2020 08:00:53 am

Hi there I am staying in Kensington eastrand I am also looking for a suport group or something like that. I can be reached on my email or whatsapp [email protected] or 0616158212. I hope to get some replies soon

Leon
20/3/2023 02:47:29 am

Email Noel [email protected]

Reply
Chloe
8/6/2024 10:06:34 pm

Hey that sounds great and calm of u comkng out to the world

So um Chloe bottom gay i wanna do a trans, so how is it done u mean those wath do i have sve to do

Reply
Jonathan Bosworth link
5/5/2014 07:18:50 pm

Dear Richard

Thank you for your inquiry.

The CtrlAltGender Group is the only support group I know of in Johannesburg. To my knowledge they have started their meetings on Thursday evenings at Wits University. You can contact Jocelyn on [email protected] or [email protected] for more information.

Kind Regards

Jonathan

Reply
sandra
26/3/2023 02:00:36 am

Are their support groups for spouses?
My husband is on estrogen and I'm struggling.

Reply
HENNIE
12/8/2015 10:51:35 pm

wow if been looking for this for so long, will be seeing u soon @WITS.

Reply
Kiesha Sommers
31/5/2016 08:37:50 am

Hi
I would so love a listing or info of a venue where TG people can hang out ....in safety...or a listing to chat/meet without all the ambient noise...???...East-rand.
[email protected]

Reply
Jonathan Bosworth link
1/6/2016 01:25:20 am

Dear Kiesha

Thank you for your comment and inquiry.

I am not aware of a such a venue but CtrlAltGender may be able to make a suggestion: https://www.facebook.com/ctrlaltgender

Kind regards

Jonathan

Reply
angie
26/8/2016 02:08:58 am

Could you please tell me at what time on Thursday,s these meetings are, and which building. Kind regards, Angie.

Reply
siyanda
17/10/2016 07:35:27 am

hi guys i am struggling to get a counselor who can endose that i am ready for HRT hormone please assist if you can.

Reply
Courtneigh link
22/10/2016 12:43:21 pm

Hi all. After all these years I have come to realise that I have to talk to so. Dealing with MTF Transgenderism by myself seems to becoming to much to handle alone.
I've been feeling this way since the age of 4 or 5 yrs old. It's time now....

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anon link
2/3/2017 10:25:30 am

Hi, I am having a problem finding a doctor who can prescribe me with testosterone (FTM) I am finally ready to move to the next stage, but I would like to do it safely.

Reply
Andy
14/8/2017 07:01:25 am

Hi can some please help find a councillor/dr who can help me get to the point where I can safely be prescribed testosterone in the Durban area.

Reply
Jonathan link
15/8/2017 05:13:19 am

Hi Andy

You're welcome to email me on [email protected] and I will reply with some KZN-based colleagues' details.

Kind regards

Jonathan

Reply
BossBaby
31/10/2018 05:10:29 pm

If u manage to find any here in Durban please kindly share or give me a referral to see the Dr. Thanks in advance

Reply
Mac
16/8/2017 12:24:59 am

Hi all,

I'm looking for a councilor/dr/therapist to help start my transition.
Also, are there any support groups in the East Rand area?

Reply
Jonathan link
16/8/2017 04:10:32 am

Dear Mac

You're welcome to email me on [email protected] for assistance with finding a psychologist (myself in Greenside or a colleague on the East Rand).

To my knowledge there are no specific trans support groups on the East Rand. CtrlAltGender (https://www.facebook.com/ctrlaltgender/) is the current trans support group in Johannesburg.

Kind regards

Jonathan

Reply
Michael link
19/5/2018 05:22:32 pm

Hi how are you doing Mac I also starting mine if you get any info let me also know I am starting my journey by psycologist in kempton park my contact no 0622973548

Reply
Eugene
16/12/2019 04:51:36 am

In Kempton park? Where? Can I afford it with my tiny salary?

Boitumelo
16/8/2017 02:02:54 am

Hai

My name is Boitumelo a 19 year old Transgender in Eastern Cape living in East London. I've just come out to my family and friends that I am Transgender (MTF) and I've been accepted at this point I am living my life as a women. All i need is counselling becauseits becoming too much forme to handle alone, I also need assistance in Support groups around East London and i need a therapist that will confirm that now I'm ready to start HRT

Reply
Jonathan link
16/8/2017 04:13:00 am

Dear Boitumelo

I suggest contacting the organisation S.H.E. (http://search.info4africa.org.za/Organisation?Id=96461). They are based in the Eastern Cape and should be able to refer you to the relevant resources in the area.

Kind regards

Jonathan

Reply
Tam
27/8/2017 11:14:58 pm

Hi

Are there any Joburg based support groups for transgender families? I.e.: Trans positive groups for trans people and their families?

Looking for one or wanting to start one to meet and support other families like ours.

Thanks
Tam

Reply
Jonathan link
28/8/2017 10:24:25 am

Dear Tam

Thank you for your comment.

At present (to my knowledge) CtrlAltGender (https://www.facebook.com/ctrlaltgender/) is the only group that meets regularly in Johannesburg. You should be able to make contact with other families through the group.

The following Facebook group may also be of interest to you: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TransKidsParentsSA/.

If you do start your own group please send me the details as there are many other individuals and families looking for supportive spaces.

Kind regards

Jonathan

Reply
Theresa Squires
29/11/2017 06:42:55 am

I am a mature person of mature years who is trying to trans MtF. For some time I have yearned to be a woman and have taken some steps on my own towards physical development to support my mental desires i,e: I have been able to make some pleasing physical adjustments. I dream of making a complete leap into the sunshine of a female existence but am restricted by the fact that I cannot come out as I have an established family and mature friends. Is it possible, through your organisation, to make the aquaintance of fellow trans people for an exchange of views and mutual support when times get emotionally difficult and one needs a should to cry on? I have to say up front that I do not have the means to travel to venues to meet others but am connected to the outside world via Skype. Any comments would be appreciated. Thank you in anticipation.

Reply
Jonathan link
30/11/2017 07:17:56 am

Dear Theresa

I recommend contacting CtrlAltGender directly through their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ctrlaltgender/) or email ([email protected]).

Kind regards

Jonathan

Reply
Theresa Squires
30/11/2017 07:57:13 am

Thank you so much for your prompt reply. Unfortunately, I am averse to such outlets as Facebook. Is it not too public? I cannot take such a risk until I am completely certain of the trustworthyness and security of such a contact medium. Am I being silly? I understand if you cannot help and thank you anyway. Is there another way as the more I explore the more I know where I want to be.

Reply
Blake
11/3/2018 05:39:31 am

Hi Theresa,

I don't use Facebook because I have the same concerns about social media. If you would rather not join the group that way, why not go into Wits and speak to someone directly?

Here is how to do it. Follow the link below. On the page it will take you to there are e-mail addresses that you can contact the group directly through. E-mail Trish, who heads it:

https://www.wits.ac.za/transformationoffice/programmes-and-projects/sexual-orientation-and-gender-identity-advocacy-programmes/our-allies/

This comes from the Wits public page so don't worry, this link isn't in violation of anyone's privacy.

Good luck with everything. I'm sorry I only saw this post now and I hope it gets to you. Maybe it will be useful to others. Support groups make such a big difference.

Regards,
Blake

Reply
Blake
11/3/2018 05:57:15 am

Hi Theresa,

Sorry, just saw your "No means to travel" post.
Well, the e-mail address will still definitely be useful.

Otherwise there are online chatrooms on the web, some of them use Skype. Of course, privacy and security issues may be a concern there. I've never tried any so I can't vouch one way or another.

Okay, I'll stop rambling now :P

Theresa
10/4/2018 03:08:30 am

Hi Blake.
I have been out of touch lately and have just seen your replies. I thank you so much for taking the trouble to respond. You have warmed this girl's heart. Maybe one day I will have the courage to follow up with a future contact. Keep well and God Bless you.

Debbie
22/8/2018 03:01:29 am

I've tried the wits email but my mail will not go through on that, can you prehaps help. I'm looking for a support group in the Sunninghill area.

Keith
21/1/2018 08:42:31 am

Hi, I was wondering if there was a doctor residing in Johannesburg who deals with things such as hormone injections and monitoring of hormones ( such as Testosterone and Estrogen )

Thank you.

Reply
Jonathan link
22/1/2018 08:57:59 am

Dear Keith

You are welcome to email me ([email protected]) and I will send you the details of such doctors.

Kind regards

Jonathan

Reply
Mr Peter Kekane link
13/2/2018 11:57:10 pm

My grade 12 daughter has a research project on gender fluid. I would like to assisted with contacts of organisations or companies that are already involved in that space.

Reply
Jonathan link
14/2/2018 06:59:14 am

Dear Peter

I suggest contacting Gender DynamiX (https://genderdynamix.org.za/), Iranti-Org (http://www.iranti-org.co.za/) and GALA (https://gala.co.za/).

Kind regards

Jonathan

Reply
michael
19/3/2018 05:39:57 am

hi Jonathan how are u doing i am intrusted also to start the proces of transioningi am from kempton park east rand

Reply
Jonathan Bosworth link
20/3/2018 02:12:18 am

Dear Michael

Thank you for your message.

If you would like to inquire about my services you are welcome to email me on [email protected]

Kind regards

Jonathan

Reply
Jonathan Bosworth link
20/3/2018 02:19:23 am

New Trans and Non-Binary Support Group in North West Province

"Transgender Intersex Africa (TIA) in partnership with LGBTI Taung would like to invite trans and gender non-binary individuals. The support group is intended for Taung and Vryburg trans and gender non binary individuals."

Contact TIA for further details: https://www.facebook.com/Transgender-and-intersex-Africa-195694323776480/

Reply
Teri
22/2/2019 04:54:01 am

Hello. I have been away from Joburg for a while. My previous post were under a different name that included my surname but for security purposes could I now post under the name of Teri?

My details haven't changed. Still 'mature', still can't come out and still have no transport. It would be nice to talk to someone even on a secure Skype line if anyone could accept my ugly face. One happy thought though. Previously I was not sure of my gender. Now I am extremely happy as a woman although having to present as a man - ugh! My wish, now that I am certain of who I am is to exchange thoughts and friendship with a fellow MtF transgender. Hopefully there is someone out there that I could connect with either by type or skype and obviously in privacy. The trouble is that I am not a pretty face but feminine emotions are in my heart and in my mind. Lastly, is it possible, if this post is accepted, that my name be changed? Loe and kisses to all.

Reply
Tarynn
5/11/2022 01:55:52 am

Hi Teri

I know this post of yours is a few years old, but i am hoping you still get messages from it.
I have read your story over and over again and I relate to it in so many ways. Firstly i am also a mature individual that has been wanting to come out for as long as i can remember but unfortunately I have been supressing those same feelings for years. I recently came out to my current wife as being a CD (thought it might soften the blow if i do it in stages, it didn't)

I am searching for someone to talk to, a shoulder to cry on as they say because i am so confused at the moment. It would be great to make contact with someone like you.

I can only email now for now so if you or anyone else would like to contact me my email is [email protected].

I hope to hear from you.

Xx

Reply
Vanessa Annabelle Lockhart
25/2/2019 11:14:24 pm

Hi I am a 29 year old transgender woman. I only recently came out due to being born into a strict Muslim family and being faced with the stigma surrounding being my true self .I really want to transition but I have no support base .so I am looking to connect with more people like myself who understand what its like to go this .

Reply
Teri
26/2/2019 02:30:07 am

Hello Vanessa
I am so happy for you in taking the magic step of coming out. My own endeavours in this area are not possible due to family reasons. However, I live in my own secret - and frustrating world - while still having to present as a male.I would be more than happy to chat with you via type or skype. Maybe we can give each other some moral support. I must warn you however, that since I became a woman I do enjoy shedding copious amounts of tears. I hasten to add though that they are tears of happiness at being blessed with beautiful female thoughts that well up in my breast frequently.I cannot believe how emotional I have become but it is wonderful.
If you are interested we can exchange contact numbers and take it from there.
Bless you

Reply
Vanessa Annabelle Lockhart
26/2/2019 02:37:35 am

Thank you so much for your reply. Unfortunately I don't have Skype but I do have Instagram @raeeznassiep and what's app 066 141 7660. I would gladly love being a part of your journey and have you be a part of mine. I also currently present as male as many of my family are against me,my mom approves though so that's all that matters. I do however wear feminine clothing and it helps a lot in letting me feel more like the real me within

Teri
26/2/2019 05:40:12 am

Hello Vanessa. What a pleasure to hear from you. I would be delighted to chat with you. I have carried extensive research as I am sure you have so perhaps we can help and support each other. (You are so lucky to be able to wear feminine clothes. I would love to be able to do that (LOL).

I have to reiterate that I am a 'mature' (old?) tannie but totally overcome by my new feelings. I hope that will not cause any problems for you. I have your number so we can chat on WhatsApp. I will send you my number promptly. Incidentally, Skype is a free service and can be easily set up if you have someone who knows the ropes. It's much better actually talking 'face to face' with someone Not that good myself with computers so I have to rely on my son (who does not know about my 'conversion' by the way).

I hope we can help each other. Please let me know. Bless you

Reply
Vanessa Annabelle Lockhart
26/2/2019 05:48:03 am

Thanks .I'd be glad to share any knowledge I have with you and you're more than welcome to message me anytime I will try and download Skype and see how it works I don't mind at all. Hope to hear from you soon and I'd be glad to help. PS I'm actually limited because I have a 2 year old son and my family think I'm going to negatively affect him by transitioning but I have spoken to quite a few transgender parents and their kids love them to bits and are quite happy. So I only wear feminine tops and pants unfortunately no dresses yet but I do get to paint my nails weekends thats the highlight of every week for me. Take care hope to hear from you soon

Reply
Gennea
26/6/2019 09:14:17 am

Hi everyone..

Are there any transgender people in the Alberton area? Would really like to meet up and talk as this is all new for me..

Reply
Eugene
16/12/2019 04:49:28 am

I need this support group. But the Facebook link is broken. How do I find it? I must get more information about this. It might help me break down the walls that are keeping me from transitioning.

Reply
Cassandra
22/10/2020 03:21:37 am

Hi there I am a transgender woman living in Kensington jhb. I would really like to be part of a support group and befriend other ladies like me if there are others out there near by please feel free to whatsapp me 0616158212 thank you

Reply
Fortune
8/2/2021 06:17:03 am

Hey y'all i have already came out to my family and they've accepted me .Now i want to my transition MtF I'm based in Johannesburg randburg i don't know where to start, can someone assist me please😖😖

Reply
Tshepang Mokharanyana
3/6/2021 02:59:06 am

Hello this Tshepang I'm production assistant on a tv and would like to have on our tv show and we'll have an expert to help you

Reply
Tshepang Mokharanyana
3/6/2021 02:57:40 am

Greetings I'm look for transgender who's will come be motivational speaker on tv that we're shooting this week or Tuesday, we need an intro of your story and we'll have an expert to help you with what problem you are having.

Reply
Dominique
30/12/2023 12:29:37 am

I need atvice I am genderfobic

Reply
Eden
19/1/2024 04:31:57 am

The link for the Facebook page doesn't work and the page itself doesn't show up on Facebook. I am getting desperate and my thoughts are getting dark. When will the dead-ends stop??? How can I get help?

Reply



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