Substance Use Disorder affects the LGBTQ+ community at a higher rate than the general population. Unique challenges such as stigma, shame, and lack of support can impede access to treatment. Mid-America ATTC consultant Darla Belflower has developed resources to highlight best practices for working with this population.
"It's important to create a welcoming and accepting environment, reduce stigma, and tailor treatments to the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals. Abstinence-based recovery may be key for some, whereas harm-reduction strategies may be more appropriate for others."
Darla Belflower
Darla Belflower LCSW, CPS has worked in leadership in the substance use disorder and behavioral health fields for over three decades. She is currently the Clinical Director at Healing House. She has a passion for teaching others what she has learned in those years. She is Vice Chair of the KC Recovery Coalition, serves on the board of the MO Coalition of Recovery Support Providers and is a member of The MO Department of Mental Health State Advisory Council. Darla obtained her MSW from the KU, and she has a BS in Psychology and Alcohol and Drug Studies from MO Valley College. Darla is a person in recovery and author of the book, “I Am Not Anonymous.”
