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Treatment and Levels of Care

Updated February 27, 2026

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4 min read

LGBTQ Medication-Assisted Treatment

If you identify as part of the LGBTQ group and have a substance use disorder, you are not alone. LGBTQ people are more likely than heterosexuals to develop an addiction. That is because of the discrimination,…

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Mile High Editorial Team

Clinically reviewed byJescia Hyland, LCSW

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If you identify as part of the LGBTQ group and have a substance use disorder, you are not alone. LGBTQ people are more likely than heterosexuals to develop an addiction. That is because of the discrimination, violence, and social isolation that many LGBTQ people experience. But there is help available. Mile High Recovery Center’s medication-assisted treatment program offers evidence-based treatment for LGBTQ folks with substance use disorders. LGBTQ medication-assisted treatment is just a call away at (303) 268-2144.

We understand that it is important to find a program that is LGBTQ-friendly and culturally competent. Our medication-assisted treatment program is an effective approach to treating addiction that can help you achieve lasting sobriety.

Substance Use Disorders in the LGBTQ Community

LGBTQ folks experience significant disparities in mental health and substance abuse compared to the general population. Some of the factors that contribute to these disparities include:

  • Prejudice and discrimination
  • Lack of social support
  • Internalized homophobia and transphobia
  • Higher rates of poverty and homelessness

The LGBTQ community has long been underserved and misunderstood by the medical community. But recent years have seen a shift in how LGBTQ people are viewed and treated by the medical establishment. One area that has seen significant progress is in the area of LGBTQ medication-assisted treatment.

What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) involves combining FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to provide a more comprehensive approach to treating substance use disorders.

Medication is used to stabilize the individual and reduce cravings, while counseling and behavioral therapy help the client develop healthy coping skills and address the underlying causes of their addiction. MAT is an effective treatment for addiction because it addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. It is also proven to be more effective than abstinence-based treatment alone.

If you or a loved one is in need of addiction treatment in Colorado, we have both inpatient and outpatient programs available:

Or call us at: (303) 268-2144

What Are the Benefits of MAT for the LGBTQ Community?

MAT can be used to treat a variety of substance use disorders. It is important to note that MAT is not a “cure” for addiction but rather a tool that can be used in conjunction with other treatment modalities to help an individual recover from addiction.

A growing body of evidence supports the use of MAT for the LGBTQ community’s treatment of addiction. This evidence suggests it leads to:

  • Reduced stigma associated with addiction and opioid use disorder
  • Improved physical health
  • Improved mental health
  • Reduced cravings and withdrawal symptoms
  • Increased retention in treatment
  • Improved employment and housing outcomes
  • Improved social functioning
  • Significantly reduced the risk of contracting HIV and other infectious diseases
  • Significantly reduced criminal activity
  • Improved birth outcomes for pregnant people
  • Significantly reduced risk of overdose

Why Is LGBTQ MAT So Important?

For many LGBTQ people, substance use is a way to cope with the stress and trauma of living in a society that often rejects and stigmatizes them. MAT can help address the underlying causes of substance use, such as anxiety and depression, and provide a sense of stability and support.

Mile High Recovery Center’s LGBTQ medication-assisted treatment program is designed to meet the unique needs of LGBTQ people. We understand the challenges you face, and we are here to help you overcome them. We offer a safe and welcoming environment where you can get the treatment you need to recover from addiction.

LGBTQ Medication-Assisted Treatment at Mile High Recovery Center

One of the biggest challenges in LGBTQ MAT is the lack of access to care. Many LGBTQ people live in rural areas or states that do not have laws protecting them from discrimination. This can make it difficult for LGBTQ people to find providers willing to treat them with respect and without judgment.

Mile High Recovery Center offers a MAT for the LGBTQ community with a comprehensive approach to treating addiction. We also offer a variety of other treatment modalities, such as individual and group counseling, 12-step support groups, and much more.

Contact us today at (303) 268-2144 to learn more about our LGBTQ MAT program.

Jescia Hyland
Clinically reviewed byJescia Hyland, LCSWClinical Director

Jescia brings more than 25 years of personal recovery and a former career in trial law to her role as Clinical Director. She believes healing is most powerful when it is grounded in empathy, humility, and hope.

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This article is for general information and is not medical advice. If you or someone you are with is in danger, call 911.

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