Who We Are
The Transgender Education Association (TEA) is dedicated to fostering understanding, respect, and inclusion through high-quality education, training, and professional development. We empower schools, workplaces, healthcare providers, community organizations, and individuals with the knowledge and tools needed to create affirming environments where transgender, gender-diverse, non-binary, and gender-expansive people are seen, valued, and supported.
We believe education is one of the most powerful tools for creating positive social change. Through evidence-based training, thoughtful dialogue, and practical resources, TEA helps individuals and institutions build cultures of inclusion, compassion, and belonging.
Our History
The roots of TEA trace back to 2010, when development began on what would become one of the first comprehensive professional training programs focused specifically on gender diversity and transgender inclusion.
The original concept emerged from a conversation between Dr. Carol Clark, a respected therapist and educator, and transgender advocate Jessica Lam. Recognizing the significant lack of training, resources, and knowledgeable providers available to support transgender and gender-diverse individuals, they envisioned a program that would educate professionals about the expansiveness of gender and increase the availability of affirming services.
That vision led to the formation of the International Transgender Certification Association (ITCA) in 2012. ITCA became the first training program specifically created to certify therapists and professionals to work with gender-expansive populations. Through the collaboration of an interdisciplinary board of experts, educators, clinicians, advocates, and community leaders, ITCA helped expand awareness, competency, and professional support for transgender and gender-diverse communities both nationally and internationally.
Our Evolution
Today, the Transgender Education Association represents the next chapter of that work.
While our name and scope have evolved, our commitment remains unchanged. TEA continues the educational mission that inspired ITCA while expanding beyond certification programs to provide training, consultation, workshops, and educational resources for schools, businesses, healthcare organizations, government agencies, nonprofits, and community groups.
Our work reflects the understanding that creating affirming environments requires more than individual providers—it requires informed educators, supportive workplaces, inclusive policies, engaged communities, and knowledgeable leaders.
Why Our Work Matters
Although awareness has grown over the years, transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse individuals continue to face barriers to affirmation, understanding, and equitable treatment in many settings. Many professionals still receive little formal education regarding gender diversity, and organizations often seek guidance on creating welcoming and inclusive environments.
TEA exists to bridge that gap.
By providing accessible, practical, and evidence-based education, we help organizations and professionals build the confidence and competence needed to support gender-diverse individuals with dignity, respect, and understanding.
Our Mission
The Transgender Education Association is dedicated to fostering understanding, respect, and inclusion through high-quality training and education. We empower individuals, schools, workplaces, healthcare providers, and communities to create affirming environments where transgender and gender-diverse people are seen, valued, and safe.
Our Vision
We strive to be a trusted leader in inclusive education, driving cultural change through knowledge, compassion, and allyship across schools, workplaces, healthcare systems, and institutions.
Our Commitment
The mission that began over a decade ago continues today.
We remain committed to advancing understanding, expanding access to education, strengthening professional competency, and helping create a world where every person—regardless of gender identity or expression—is treated with dignity, respect, and belonging.
Affirming Identities Through Education.