Reflections on Transgender Identity and Healing

An 84-year-old man who lived as a woman for many years, recently expressed his belief that individuals grappling with their gender identity should focus on understanding the deeper issues behind their feelings, to truly “accept” the person they believe God created.

Walt Heyer, who transitioned four decades ago after identifying as female for eight years, now runs a ministry called “Sex Change Regret.” He claims to have supported thousands of those who now regret their decisions regarding gender change.

In a discussion with Dr. Jennifer Bauwens, director at the Family Research Council, they talked about their new book titled Accept God’s Design. The book addresses issues related to the mental and psychological crises surrounding transgender identity, and critiques the influence of leftist activism on counseling standards over the last two decades.

The authors argue that understanding the root causes of gender confusion is crucial for effective treatment. They suggest that friends and family can play a supportive role for those experiencing gender identity issues.

Dr. Bauwens, a former trauma therapist, highlighted the common experiences of abuse among those facing gender confusion. She pointed out that significant changes in counseling standards have led to a focus on affirming gender identity, often neglecting the trauma many patients have faced.

“About half of those identifying as transgender report some form of abuse in their past,” she said. She emphasized the gravity of the situation, claiming that performing surgery on individuals with such histories may resemble medical malpractice.

Heyer recalled his own journey through gender confusion, which began in childhood amidst familial abuse. He shared that he secretly wore a dress made for him by his grandmother—a secret kept for two and a half years until his father discovered it.

As a teenager, Heyer identified as female and later struggled with alcoholism. He began taking cross-sex hormones and underwent sex change surgery, living as “Laura Jensen” for eight years. He reflected on how his past abuse wasn’t addressed during therapy.

“When working with individuals, I’ve found that their gender issues often stem from deeper traumas,” Heyer remarked. He insists that these are identity issues, not merely gender issues, pointing out that medical interventions won’t resolve the underlying problems.

Heyer’s faith plays a crucial role in his outlook. He believes that God will “redeem and restore” lives, especially regarding gender identity struggles. He sees the contemporary gender movement as a spiritual challenge that merits serious attention from those with faith.

“This movement isn’t just about confusing gender roles; it’s about undermining the very essence of family and God’s image,” he concluded, stressing the significance of male and female attributes as inherently designed into our identities.

As societal discussions around gender identity increase, both Heyer and Dr. Bauwens urge a deeper understanding of mental health and identity, suggesting that addressing these complex issues might lead to greater healing for individuals.