Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) in Transgender Communities: The Need for Trans‐Competent SUD Counselors and Facilities

Abstract

Transgender individuals entering treatment for substance use disorders (SUDs) may have unique needs related to their gender identity. This article provides a lens for viewing transgender clients and demonstrates the need for trans-competent SUD counseling through a case illustration.

Prevalence and Co-occurrence of Alcohol, Nicotine, and Other Substance Use Disorder Diagnoses Among US Transgender and Cisgender Adults

“…Findings also support the necessity of tailoring clinical interventions to the highest risk groups including TF people and young adults. Given early research suggesting that many substance use treatment facilities may be ill-equipped to meet the treatment needs of transgender adults with SUDDs 42 , 43 and the paucity of evidence-based SUD interventions for this population, 44 research that examines the treatment experiences and unmet treatment needs of transgender individuals with SUDDs is needed to inform future interventions for this population.…”

Recognizing and addressing microaggressions in addiction treatment groups: An integrated approach

“…According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 6.1 million racial/ethnic minorities age 18 years or older have a substance use disorder (SUD), while 2.6 million lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults in the United States also live with various SUDs (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA], 2020). When seeking treatment, prior research suggests that counseling outcomes among these individuals may be adversely affected by discrimination and microaggressions experienced during the counseling process (Constantine, 2007; Davis et al., 2016; Hook et al., 2016; Lyons et al., 2015; Oberheim et al., 2017; Owen et al., 2011, 2014; Smith et al., 2012). Microaggressions are subtle, often unintentional, statements that reflect prejudiced or discriminatory messages about various minority groups (Sue et al., 2007).…”

LGBTQ+ Addiction Research: An Analysis of the Journal of Addictions & Offender Counseling

“…Since the inception of JAOC, only five articles (1.78%) have been published that were specifically focused on LGBTQ+ SUDs or process addictions. The most recent article was a conceptual/theoretical piece that explored SUDs among transgender populations and the need for trans-affirming SUD treatment (Oberheim, DePue, & Hagedorn, 2017). These authors included a case illustration of a trans man to illustrate trans-affirming SUD counseling.…”