Addressing the Unique Needs of Women in Addiction Treatment- Challenges and Strategies
Special Population Needs: LGBTQ
According to Stevens (2012), some of the common case management needs for LGBTQ individuals in addiction treatment programs include housing needs, family support, and financial support, given that most of them are uninsured. Research also shows that members of the LGBTQ community have a higher probability of having co-occurring mental health diagnoses and greater severity of substance use (Flentje, Livingston & Sorensen, 2017). Therefore, this population might be in higher need of mental health services. Furthermore, given that most of them are at higher risk of contracting HIV/AIDS, addressing these physical and health needs is also important.
The potential barriers to service that members of the LGBTQ community face include stigmatization and victimization due to negative bias from service providers, lack of services for their needs, and inadequate healthcare coverage, which may be a barrier to obtaining treatment or even following treatment recommendations for extended care services (Flentje, Livingston & Sorensen, 2017). Stevens (2012) suggests the need for service providers to be more aware and knowledgeable of the health and mental needs of LGBTQ individuals seeking substance use treatment in order to provide better services. Having culturally competent programs could also enhance help. Lastly, it is important to avail of housing programs to help those who are homeless.
Most LGBTQ individuals face rejection from family and lack social support (Stevens, 2012). It would be important to ensure family therapy that will focus on enhancing relationships and communication to enable support and understanding of the member during the treatment process. Financial support will also be necessary to provide special needs such as mental health services for the client as well as other basic needs.
References
Flentje, A., Livingston, N. A., & Sorensen, J. L. (2016). Meeting the needs of lesbian, gay, and bisexual clients in substance abuse treatment. Counselor (Deerfield Beach), 17(3), 54-59.
Stevens, S. (2012). Meeting the substance abuse treatment needs of lesbian, bisexual and transgender women: implications from research to practice. Substance abuse and rehabilitation, 3(Suppl 1), 27-36.
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Question 
Special Population Needs
Using the assigned reading and research from peer review resources, select one of the mentioned special populations assuming that all members in this group are also in addiction treatment: HIV/HepC positive, homeless, LGTBQ, women, adolescents, criminal justice clients, clients with physical disabilities, or clients who live in rural areas. Respond to the questions below and remember to cite/reference any additional peer-reviewed resources that you used in your research.
Special Population Needs
What are some of the common case management needs of the clients who are in addiction treatment programs and who are members of the special population that you chose?