Hi there, I’m Dr Z
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist with a sole focus on Gender Dysphoria and Gender Identity. Having trained in various modalities, I work using a humanistic approach, catering to your unique therapeutic needs.
I’m here to help you overcome challenges and provide you with the tools to live a meaningful, ever-evolving life. Each client is unique, and I approach each individual within their personal context and circumstance.
“The more aware you are of your emotions, the less they will control you.”
- GABOR MATE
My Specialties
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Gender dysphoria requires specialized expertise beyond general psychological approaches, as it involves a complex interplay between identity, body image, social dynamics, and personal history.
As a specialist with two decades focused exclusively on gender dysphoria in adults, I recognize subtle patterns and manifestations that generalists often miss. My specialized lens helps clients efficiently untangle complex feelings, identify authentic paths forward, and make confident decisions about their gender journey based on their unique circumstances.
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Gender identity exploration encompasses understanding one's authentic sense of self, distinct from but sometimes related to gender dysphoria's discomfort.
My specialized focus helps clients separate identity questions from dysphoria experiences, providing clarity where these complex elements overlap or diverge. I guide individuals to recognize their genuine gender identity regardless of whether transition steps are needed, wanted, or align with their unique life circumstances.
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Transgender couples therapy addresses the unique dynamics when one or both partners navigate gender transition within a relationship.
I provide specialized support for managing identity shifts, intimacy changes, and communication challenges specific to transgender partnerships. My approach honors both individual authenticity and relationship health during these profound personal and interpersonal transformations.
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Crossdressing and transgender identity represent distinct experiences that require specialized understanding to differentiate and address appropriately.
My expertise helps clients explore where their personal experience falls on this spectrum and what it means for their authentic identity. I provide clarity about these commonly confused but fundamentally different expressions of gender, helping individuals understand their unique experience without applying incorrect assumptions or labels.
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I am in the process of setting up online group membership support for trans-women individuals. If interested, please let me know via emailing info@drzphd.com
My Story
I have always possessed a natural ability to listen, really listen, to people's stories of struggle and pain. Many have called me an ‘old soul’ when I was young, recognizing my gift of seeing clarity and wisdom when a person is struggling at a crossroads.
To this day, many transgender and nonbinary folks wonder how I possess the capacity for an in-depth understanding of their challenges when I myself am a cis woman.
I have long stopped wondering “how” and instead focused on ways I can help, guide, and support and have come to recognize my work as my life and soul calling.
Dr Z Logistics
PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
Dr. Natalia Zhikhareva, known as Dr. Z, holds a Doctor of Clinical Psychology Degree and active licenses in California (PSY28888), New York (024701), Texas (#39338), and Florida out-of-state telehealth provider (#197).
RECOGNIZED NATIONAL SPEAKER
Dr. Z is also a national speaker on gender issues and transgender care and has been featured as an expert on numerous platforms: Google Trans Conference, Forbes Health, BuzzFeed News, Los Angeles County Psychological Association, and Authority Magazine.
PUBLISHED AUTHOR
Dr. Z’s first book, On Your Terms: Gender Transition Redefined for Adults, aimed to empower transgender and nonbinary adults to take steps toward their authentic identity, reached Amazon Best Seller and #1 New Release in its category within one week of publication.
