Abstract
This study examined the barriers to accessing services as well as risk and protective factors to developing mental health challenges in transgender individuals through the perspective of providers working with this population. The researchers employed an exploratory qualitative approach, through the use of content analysis. Ten providers were recruited by non-probability snowball sampling. A significant finding gleaned from the data analysis revealed that the largest barriers to accessing services were discriminatory practices, lack of cultural competency, and a general lack of available services to this population. More importantly, assisting in breaking down these barriers through advocacy proved to be the most prevalent intervention. Implications for social work practice and policy are discussed.