Specialized Treatment for LGBTQ+

LGBTQ+ individuals are subjected to significant stressors in everyday life, as well as in the workplace.  They also experience substance use disorders at more than twice the rate of the general population, according to the National Institute on Health (2017). This disparity is due to not individual pathology, but because of those increased instances of trauma, macroaggressions, discrimination and societal stigma.

The LGBTQ+ population face unique challenges

• Members of the LGBTQ+ community report beginning alcohol use at an earlier age than their heterosexual peers (McCabe, West, Hughes & Boyd, 2013).
• It is estimated that between 20% to 30% of LGBTQ+ people abuse substances, compared to 9% of the general population (Hunt, 2012).
• A lack of cultural competency in the health care system discourages LGBTQ+ people from seeking treatment for substance abuse, and—if they do seek help—often leads to inappropriate or irrelevant services (Hunt, 2012).
• Higher levels of drinking are observed when individuals have witnessed acts of incivility or hostility, for example, bullying, verbal threats, and assault (Talley et al., 2016).
• LGBTQ+ adults ongoing exposure to victimization, prejudice and discrimination increases the likelihood of alcohol and other drug misuse (Lombardi & van Servellen, 2000)

Their varied personal and professional experiences infuse each person’s treatment journey at our center with a profound appreciation for diversity, and they are committed to fostering acceptance at each touchpoint of the treatment process. In a warm and collaborative setting, we create a safe and inviting atmosphere where lasting healing can occur.

At Bayside Marin, we are pleased to have experts on staff that specialize in meeting the targeted needs of the LGBTQ+ community, recognizing the unique needs of the community in a treatment experience. Having been recognized for their efforts to promote safe spaces in places like universities, hospitals, police departments, and more, the staff at Bayside Marin is dedicated to ensuring that cultural humility is woven into each person’s path to recovery.

In their work with individuals, couples, families, and groups, our team has vast experience supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community in the clinical space, and in fostering an environment of acceptance for expressions and identities of all kinds. Additionally, our specialists are uniquely prepared to provide trans-inclusive supports and services within the treatment planning process. At Bayside Marin, members of the LGBTQ+ community will be welcomed into a safe, inviting environment with a climate that fosters long-term healing from concerns related to mental illness, addiction, and more.

At Bayside Marin, we understand the unique barriers to treatment for the LGBTQ+ community.  As well, we recognize the impact of past discrimination, judgment and even violence.  To that end, our staff is comprised of some of the most experienced and accomplished medical and mental health professionals in the industry who understand and diligently work to help clients navigate such challenges.  In fact, their varied personal and professional experiences infuse the treatment journey with a profound appreciation for what brought each client to treatment.  They are committed to fostering acceptance and pride at each touchpoint of the treatment process.

Specifically, Bayside Marin is pleased to have experts on staff that specialize in meeting the targeted needs of the LGBTQ+ community.   Indeed, they help set the tone in providing an affirming environment.  All of our clinical and medical staff receive on-going training and support to be able to recognize and respond to the unique stressors that have contributed to complications in mental health and substance misuse.  We are sensitive to the everyday experiences most people take for granted, e.g., use of restrooms and preferred pronouns.  In this manner, we are committed to providing a welcoming space that is responsive to the needs of each individual.

It is our vision that members of the LGBTQ+ community find Bayside Marin to be a safe, inviting environment that is designed to introduce healing from marginalization, addiction, mental illness and more.

• Sophisticated addiction and dual diagnosis treatment for adults
• Licensed masters and doctoral level therapists
• Intimate treatment setting and high staff-to-client ratio
• Medically-assisted detoxification, residential, and intensive outpatient treatment
• Picturesque location, scenic vistas, and comfortable amenities

Our LBGTQ+ Affirming Services are uniquely tailored to assist and support members of the community to begin the process of healing from the effects of substance misuse and behavioral health issues.  It does so by welcoming and affirming the LGBTQ+ person’s identity and experience. Bayside Marin is known for its holistic client-centered care, having a 3-1 staff to client ratio and providing a concierge quality of service.

Our distinctive 5-Phase Treatment Model is the result of decades of experience in the field of recovery. By guiding clients through each phase, i.e., Incentive, Awareness, Support, Vigilance and Preparation, our clinical teams helps individuals build a healthy foundation for the future.

Our Multi-Disciplinary Team includes national trainers on the subject and a wide range of professionals with extensive experience.

• ASAM/ABAM Certified Medical Director
• Board Certified Psychiatrist
• Clinical Psychologists
• Masters Level Clinicians
• Addiction Counselors
• Registered Nurses and LVNs
• Nurse Practitioners and a Physician Assistant

Family Program: At Bayside Marin, we believe recovery is a community effort. To this end, our bi-weekly, two-day intensive workshop features education, group activities, peer support and new learning for the community surrounding each person in treatment. Input is sought from family both biological and chosen, significant others, colleagues and employers, and community members are included in the assessment process and, when appropriate, is ongoing during the course of treatment.

Coordination of Care and Continuing Care: We work with resources nationwide to ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals are connected with culturally relevant and responsive resources after discharge from Bayside Marin.

Ongoing Support: Our robust Alumni Program includes weekly meetings, as well as events and activities, to support recovery. The Recovery Choice^® mobile app and call back program provides frequent contact during the first year and monitors outcomes.