A 22-year-old transgender woman (assigned male at birth) presents to the PMHNP for an initial psychiatric evaluation. She reports persistent depressive symptoms, social anxiety, and occasional panic attacks that have worsened since beginning her social transition eight months ago. She is currently receiving feminizing hormone therapy from an endocrinologist. She describes feeling "constantly on guard" in public spaces, has experienced workplace discrimination, and was recently rejected by her parents after coming out. She states, "Sometimes I wonder if transitioning was the right choice because everything has gotten harder." The PMHNP considers the most appropriate clinical framework for understanding this patient's presentation. Which of the following best reflects an evidence-based approach?