Meeting the Unique Needs of Gender and Sexual Minority Clients in Substance Abuse Treatment
Tracks
Ballroom 1
| Tuesday, May 13, 2025 |
| 2:15 PM - 2:45 PM |
Overview
Dr Kelly King, Metropolitan State University Of Denver
Speaker
Dr. Kelly King
Core Faculty
University of Phoenix
Meeting the Unique Needs of Gender and Sexual Minority Clients in Substance Abuse Treatment
Abstract
There is a significant amount of research to support the higher prevalence of addiction issues among the gender and sexual minority populations. However, research has also shown that despite this higher prevalence, many counselors still lack self-efficacy and confidence in working with individuals from these populations. Lack of competence in these areas can lead to many problems for these individuals as they seek support for their addiction issues and, at times, may lead to more harm than good.
The purpose of this presentation is to highlight the higher prevalence of these issues within the LGBTQ+ population, with support from recent research. Included in this presentation will be an overview of common qualities and characteristics of LGBTQ+ clients in addiction treatment, their unique needs, and evidence-based treatment approaches best suited for work with this population. Potential harm will also be discussed as it relates to outdated treatment approaches. Recommendations will be provided for a variety of treatment settings, including residential and outpatient care.
The purpose of this presentation is to highlight the higher prevalence of these issues within the LGBTQ+ population, with support from recent research. Included in this presentation will be an overview of common qualities and characteristics of LGBTQ+ clients in addiction treatment, their unique needs, and evidence-based treatment approaches best suited for work with this population. Potential harm will also be discussed as it relates to outdated treatment approaches. Recommendations will be provided for a variety of treatment settings, including residential and outpatient care.
Biography
Dr. King is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) in the state of Colorado in the United States. She is currently an Assistant Professor and Program Director at Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver) in the Graduate Behavioral Health with Emphasis on Addictions Program and Faculty Member at University of Phoenix.in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. She has served the addiction and recovery populations in a variety of settings, and is passionate about expanding access to care and working with intersectionality between LGBTQ+ issues and substance abuse.
