About Us | Chapters | Advertising | Join
August 22, 2025
As a professional association representing Marriage and Family Therapists committed to advancing mental health care and well-being for all, the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) affirms the dignity, humanity, and rights of transgender, nonbinary, and gender expansive people.
The CAMFT Board of Directors recognizes that gender identity and expression are essential aspects of a person’s self. We stand unequivocally in support of the rights of all people to live as their authentic selves, free from discrimination, violence, and political interference. We affirm that being transgender or gender expansive is not a disorder, and that gender diversity is a normal and healthy part of human experience.
CAMFT’s support for the rights, dignity, and health of transgender and gender expansive people is grounded in the prevailing standards of medical, psychological, and psychiatric care. Leading professional organizations— including the American Psychological Association, American Psychiatric Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Medical Association, and World Health Organization— affirm that gender-affirming care is evidence-based, medically necessary, and contributes to improved mental health and well-being. Our position reflects this robust body of clinical guidance and research.
In recent years, transgender people, especially youth, have faced escalating attacks through harmful legislation, disinformation, and the rollback of basic protections. CAMFT rejects efforts to restrict access to gender affirming care for our youth or for people of any age. We reject any efforts to erase trans identities.
As therapists, we hold an ethical obligation to do no harm. To support the mental health and wellbeing of our transgender clients, colleagues, and communities means standing firmly against attempts to dehumanize, marginalize, or criminalize any member of our communities. We also acknowledge that the work must go beyond statements, it must be reflected in our policies, practice, education, and advocacy.
CAMFT will continue to fight for a world where all people, of all gender identities, have access to affirming mental health care, are protected under the law, and are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.
Selected References:
American Psychological Association
American Academy of Pediatrics
American Medical Association
American Psychiatric Association
World Health Organization