Treating substance abuse in sexual minorities: Providing appropriate services

Research indicates that sexual minorities entering substance abuse treatment tend to have more severe substance use problems, as well as higher levels of mental health difficulties than their heterosexual counterparts (Cochran & Cauce, 2006). Furthermore, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals with substance use disorders are likely to encounter difficulties in treatment settings. For example, evidence suggests that the overwhelming majority of agencies that report offering LGBT-specific services do not provide such programming (Cochran, Peavy, & Robohm, 2007). Because definitional guidelines as to what constitutes LGBT-specific treatment are unclear, it is important to identify the unique treatment needs of this population. The purpose of the proposed study is to better understand the needs of sexual minorities in substance abuse treatment. Towards this aim, our research team will survey clients attending LGBT-specific treatment centers. Twelve such facilities have been identified, at which participants will be asked to fill out a survey either online or by paper and pencil. Survey questions are designed to examine participants' experiences with LGBT-specific treatment and other treatment, as well as how treatment might be catered to suit specific needs related to sexual orientation and gender identity. Analyses will include: reasons for choosing LGBT specific treatment, epidemiological/descriptive data on participants, and experiences of discrimination. Results from this study will have implications for developing guidelines for best treatment practices with this population, and increasing the treatment community's awareness about the need for specialized services for their LGBT clients.