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What is Gender Affirming Voice and Communication therapy?
This is an opportunity to explore your voice and communication in a safe and encouraging space. Everyone has different needs and goals with their voice and communication.
There is no assumption that you need to change your voice or access voice and communication therapy if this is not a concern for you. The following information can help you decide.
Our speech and language therapists (SLTs) are members of the Royal College of Speech and Language therapists (RCSLT) and the RCSLT Trans and Gender Diverse Clinical Excellence Network.
The service offers around six one to one sessions, depending on your goals. The timings of these will be discussed with you in your sessions. The sessions are usually virtual via video appointment.
How can I get the most out of my sessions?
What do you want to explore?
Listen to different voices and communication styles and identify in your own words what you like and dislike about them. If it is helpful, try writing down ideas you would like to discuss before your first session.
What happens in voice and communication therapy?
During the first session we will:
- Explore what you find challenging about your voice and communication and what you enjoy
- Ask about your vocal health and your physical and mental health to anticipate potential support needed
- Ask about use of testosterone if you are planning to lower the pitch of your voice
- Ask about the opportunities you have to use your voice, including stage of social transition (you do not have to have completed this before therapy)
- Work with you to create meaningful goals.
Is there anything that could delay access to therapy?
We will ask about any physical voice difficulties, such as significant strain or pain. You may need a referral to a local ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) or voice therapy services before starting sessions. This may also apply if you have had vocal surgery and are experiencing pain or strain.
When is best for me to start voice therapy?
Each person will be ready at different times. Here are some things to consider:
- Can you do independent activities between sessions?
- Do you have the time and headspace to engage? We understand that you may have several appointments to attend – it may be better to wait.
- Do you have opportunity to practice independently and with others?
- Are you able to practice for a few minutes each day?
If you have said ‘no’ or ‘I don’t know’ to any of these questions, you can still access voice and communication therapy to discuss it further.
How do I get referred?
A referral can be arranged after your initial consultation with a Transcend clinician. In some cases, they may recommend waiting until other factors have been addressed.
How do I ask more questions?
Questions about this service: sltvoicesupport
Questions about Transcend: transcend
Our patients matter
Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust listens and responds to patients and their carers to help improve the services we deliver.
If you have any comments, compliments or concerns you can speak with a member of staff or contact our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) and Complaints Team
Telephone: 0151 471 2377
Freephone: 0800 328 2941
Email: palsandcomplaints@merseycare.nhs.uk
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Approval date: 27 March 2026
Review date: 11 March 2027
Version number: 1
Further information
For more information about the Transcend service, including materials on assessments, psychology, surgical assessments and much more please look at our specialist webpage.