Voice Coaching for Transgender, Nonbinary, & Gender Nonconforming Youth

Written By Jordan Jakomin

Almost 2 percent of high school students identify as transgender, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If this number was applied to all youth, it would mean there are over 1.3 million trans youth in the United States.

Results of a survey completed by over 100,000 transgender high school students in 2017 across several states showed: 

  • 27% felt unsafe going to school 

  • 35% were bullied at school 

  • 35% attempted suicide 

For some trans and nonbinary youth, their voice may not align with their gender identity or gender expression, leading to voice dysphoria. Speech-language pathologists can play an important role in helping trans youth and their families access culturally competent care.

Gender-affirming voice coaching can support youth in finding a voice that is authentic, affirming, and helps build self-confidence. This can lead to students using their voice to participate in classroom lectures, communicate with teacher and peers, and not feel isolated in school environments. 

 The identity of trans and queer youth will not be erased. 

Reference

Michelle M. Johns, PhD1; Richard Lowry, MD1; Jack Andrzejewski, MPH2; Lisa C. Barrios, DrPH1; Zewditu Demissie, PhD1; Timothy McManus, MS1; Catherine N. Rasberry, PhD1; Leah Robin, PhD1; J. Michael Underwood, PhD1

Jordan Jakomin
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