Do specialized services exist for LGBT individuals seeking treatment for substance misuse? A study of available treatment programs.
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.
Cochran
Bryan N
BN
Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana 59812, USA. bryan.cochran@umontana.edu
Peavy
K Michelle
KM
Robohm
Jennifer S
JS
D005260:Female; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006716:Homosexuality / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006760:Hospitalization; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000600:supply & distribution*; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D011647:Puerto Rico / Q000453:epidemiology; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology