Opioid Use within the Affectional and Gender Diverse Populations (LGBTQ+)

Opioid use disorder has reached an alarming rate in the United States. As more and more people struggle with opioids, it is important for behavioral healthcare workers to understand how to best support people in need; specifically, members that identify within the affectional and gender diverse community. Members of this community are disproportionately affected by substance use disorders, inclusive of the opioid epidemic. This presentation will highlight the impact that opioid use disorder has on sexual and gender diverse populations, best practices, trauma-informed care, and behavioral health integration into primary care. Upon completion of this program, participants will be able to: Highlight the difference between sexual (affectional) identity and gender identity. Describe the implications of opioid use disorder for the affectional and gender diverse population. Discuss best practices for working with affectional and gender diverse individuals who have opioid use disorder. Rutgers Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology (GSAPP) is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists #PSY-0123. Rutgers Graduate School of Applied & Professional Psychology is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Rutgers Graduate School of Applied & Professional Psychology maintains responsibility for this program and its content.