This academy session focuses on understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in recovery. Participants will explore the social, psychological, and systemic factors contributing to higher rates of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) within LGBTQ+ communities while gaining insights into culturally competent strategies for support.
Emily is a queer Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 11 years of experience in the mental health field working with young people and their families. She holds a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and currently serves as the Colorado Program Director for Young People in Recovery (YPR), where she has been a leader for over 5 years. She also operates a private telehealth practice, offering therapy to individuals across Colorado, with a specialization in trauma, grief, and identity exploration.
Her work is grounded in empowerment, self-compassion, authenticity, and creating safe spaces for self-defined healing.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this presentation, participants will be able to:
- Understand the unique social, psychological, and systemic factors contributing to higher rates of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) in LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Recognize the historical context of LGBTQ+ rights and how systemic discrimination contributes to health disparities.
- Identify specific barriers to care and recovery for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly transgender people.
- Examine current data and trends on SUD prevalence and overdose rates in the LGBTQ+ community.
- Apply best practices and culturally competent strategies to support LGBTQ+ individuals in self-defined recovery.
