Have you ever wondered about the rise of transgenderism and gender dysphoria in our culture? In this episode of The Great Exchange Podcast, host Brady Cone talks to professional counselor Michael Costello about the history and current state of mental health diagnosis and treatment for these issues. The most valuable lesson from this episode is the importance of exploring the root causes of gender dysphoria, rather than simply providing gender affirming care as a quick fix solution.
Michael explains that the majority of therapists are trained to assume that someone who claims to be in the wrong body is 100% accurate and there is no exploration of why they feel that way. This can be harmful, particularly for teenagers who may be influenced by peers or social media influencers to identify as transgender. Instead, Michael approaches gender dysphoria with what he calls gender identity therapy, which involves exploring the root causes of the individual’s feelings and experiences.
Brady and Michael also emphasize the importance of being a good listener and not dismissing someone’s struggle with gender dysphoria. They both agree that shaming or affirming someone’s gender identity without exploring the root causes can be harmful. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of gender dysphoria and transgenderism in our culture and how to effectively minister to them and show them the Love of Jesus.
TIMESTAMPS:
History of Gender Dysphoria Diagnosis [00:02:26] Michael Costello explains the history of gender dysphoria diagnosis and how it has evolved over the decades.
Gender Affirming Care [00:05:07] Brady Cohn and Michael Costello discuss the concept of gender affirming care, including cross-sex hormones and puberty blockers, and how it is being pushed and advocated for in our culture.
Harm of Gender Affirming Care [00:09:41] Michael Costello talks about the harm caused by gender affirming care and how traditional psychotherapeutic methods can help people with gender dysphoria come to terms with their body.
The Emotional Distress of Gender Dysphoria [00:13:43] Speaker 2 discusses the emotional distress of gender dysphoria and how it is never addressed in gender affirming care.
Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria [00:15:31] Speaker 1 talks about the rise of rapid onset gender dysphoria and how it is more of a social contagion than a biological issue.
Autism and Gender Dysphoria [00:25:08] Speakers 1 and 2 discuss the high percentage of teenagers with rapid onset gender dysphoria who are on the autism spectrum and how this makes them more susceptible to feeling like they don’t belong.
Gender Identity Therapy [00:28:25] Michael Costello discusses his approach to gender identity therapy, which involves exploring the root causes of gender dysphoria through traditional psychotherapeutic methods.
Affirmation Therapy [00:34:46] The dangers of affirmation therapy are discussed, with the suggestion that it is not the only option and may be harmful.
Compassion and Grace [00:35:58] The importance of handling issues surrounding gender dysphoria with compassion and grace is emphasized, and listeners are encouraged to examine the lies they’ve believed and exchange them for God’s truth.
Join us weekly as we strive to exchange the lies we believe for the truth of God’s word.
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