Do specialized services exist for LGBT individuals seeking treatment for substance misuse? A study of available treatment programs

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Abstract

Substance abuse research has demonstrated that client sexual orientation influences treatment outcomes. Consequently, many substance user treatment programs offer services for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals. In a recent search of SAMHSA treatment listings, 11.8% (N = 911) of substance user treatment programs (including residential, outpatient, and partial hospitalization) in the United States and Puerto Rico indicated that they offer specialized services for LGBT clients. However, a telephone survey we conducted in 2003-2004 revealed that 70.8% of these "LGBT" programs were no different from services offered to the general population, and only 7.4% could identify a service specifically tailored to the needs of LGBT clients. Implications for LGBT individuals seeking services are discussed, the study's limitations are noted, and future research directions are identified.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)161-176
Number of pages16
JournalSubstance Use and Misuse
Volume42
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2007

Keywords

  • Bisexual
  • Gay
  • Homosexuality
  • LGBT
  • Lesbian
  • SAMHSA
  • Specialized services
  • Transgender
  • Treatment

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