Walt Heyer, a 84-year-old man who lived as a woman for eight years, and Dr. Jennifer Bauwens, Director of the Center for Family Studies at the Family Research Council, have released a new book titled ‘Embracing God’s Design,’ which explores the spiritual and psychological underpinnings of transgender identity. The book, co-authored by Heyer and Bauwens, addresses the spiritual and psychological crisis behind transgender identity, arguing that left-wing activism has influenced diagnostic and ethical standards in the counseling field, harming patient care over the past two decades.
The authors emphasize the importance of addressing the root causes of gender confusion rather than simply affirming one’s gender identity. They argue that many people who experience gender confusion also have histories of abuse, neglect, or adverse childhood experiences, and that professional counseling standards have evolved to prioritize gender affirmation without adequately addressing these trauma issues. Bauwens, a former trauma therapist and researcher, claims that around half of those who identify as transgender also report some form of abuse, whether emotional, psychological, physical, or sexual. She asserts that treating individuals with surgical procedures without addressing the underlying trauma can be considered malpractice, bordering on criminal behavior.
Heyer, who detransitioned 40 years ago after identifying as a woman for eight years, describes his own journey of gender confusion, which began at a young age with family members who abused him. He recounts being cross-dressed by his grandmother and eventually undergoing sex change surgery to live as ‘Laura Jensen’ for eight years. He credits God and Christian counselors for helping him to get sober, address his gender issues, and turn his life around. The Christian authors believe that the modern gender movement is a spiritual battle that should be taken seriously by people of faith, as it challenges the foundational concepts of family and the image of God.
Heyer runs a ministry and website called ‘Sex Change Regret,’ where he says he’s helped thousands of people who regret trying to change their gender. The book also includes advice on how friends and family can support those struggling with gender identity, emphasizing the need to confront the deeper issues that drive individuals to question their gender. The authors argue that the current mental health crisis, particularly among youth, cannot be divorced from the broader spiritual and identity challenges posed by the gender movement. They call for a renewed focus on the role of faith, family, and divine design in addressing these complex issues.