Affirming behavioral health care for the LGBTQ+ community Substance use and mental health treatment in a space that respects who you are

LGBTQ+ individuals experience substance use and mental health conditions at higher rates than the general population. The reasons are well documented. Stigma, discrimination and the chronic stress of moving through a world that isn’t always accepting take a real and measurable toll. Finding care that understands that reality matters, because feeling understood is often what makes staying in treatment possible.

At Kolmac Integrated Behavioral Health, an outpatient provider that’s treated over 50,000 patients since 1973. We’ve built our care to meet the LGBTQ+ community with competence and respect, from the first phone call through every stage of treatment.

Understanding the disparities

The barriers here are specific and well documented. SAMHSA’s 2021–2022 national survey found that lesbian, gay and bisexual adults are markedly more likely than straight adults to experience substance use disorders, major depressive episodes and serious thoughts of suicide.

Federal public health data ties much of that gap to stigma, discrimination, harassment and rejection rather than to anything inherent in who someone is.

Other obstacles keep people from care in the first place:

  • A shortage of providers with genuine cultural competency in LGBTQ+ care
  • A lack of inclusive, affirming spaces where patients feel safe being fully themselves
  • Practical barriers to access, from cost to fear of being judged

Our commitment to affirming care

From the day our doors first opened, Kolmac has worked to reduce stigma, whether in substance use, in mental health or in how the LGBTQ+ community is treated within health care. That commitment shows up in the way our clinics are designed and in the way our clinicians engage, creating an environment built on empowerment and understanding rather than judgment.

Culturally competent treatment

Every member of our team completes cultural competency training from the outset of their employment, with ongoing training and supervision throughout the year. This isn’t a one-time box to check. It’s how we make sure the care you receive reflects who you are and the specific challenges you face.

Who this program is for

You deserve good care without having to justify your fundamental needs. Consider Kolmac for LGBTQ-friendly rehab and mental health treatment if you’re:

  • Looking for a provider who understands LGBTQ+ experiences without you having to educate them
  • Managing substance use, a mental health condition, or both at the same time
  • Worn down by stress tied to stigma, discrimination or rejection
  • Hesitant to reach out because past care felt unsafe or dismissive
  • Looking for treatment options that are flexible enough for your job, education and personal life

Integrated substance use and mental health support

LGBTQ+ patients often navigate substance use and mental health conditions at the same time. Kolmac treats them together through our dual diagnosis model, so both are addressed within one coordinated plan rather than handled separately.

Our intensive outpatient program (IOP) provides 3 to 4 sessions per week, offering 9 to 12 hours of structured treatment, and typically runs 10 to 15 weeks depending on each patient’s clinical progress. Because everything is outpatient, you can keep working, studying and living your life while you get support.

What treatment includes

Care begins with an evaluation, available through telehealth, and is built into an individualized plan. Treatment combines individual therapy, LGBTQ+ affirming group therapy and psychiatric support as needed. Group work is a particular strength, giving you a place to connect with others who understand your experience and easing the isolation that so often surrounds substance use and mental health challenges.

The entire program, from that first evaluation through intensive outpatient program sessions, can be attended virtually when that works better for you.

Frequently asked questions

Is Kolmac’s staff trained in LGBTQ+-affirming care?

Yes. Our team trains every member in cultural competency upon hiring and provides ongoing training and supervision throughout the year. Because of this, our team includes affirming care in our practices at every stage.

Will my treatment plan address both substance use and mental health?

Our dual diagnosis model means they’re treated together under one coordinated plan, where progress in one area strengthens the other.

Can I attend treatment virtually?

Yes, telehealth can manage your evaluation and much of your ongoing care, which makes it easier to schedule treatment around your work and home life.

Does Kolmac accept my insurance?

Kolmac works with most major insurance plans. Before you begin, our team will verify your insurance and coverage and explain any costs, so there aren’t any surprises later.

How soon can I start?

You can start the same day. Once you reach out, our admissions team can begin your evaluation and get you into care without a long wait.

When you’re ready, we’re here

Everyone deserves access to compassionate, effective behavioral health care, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Reaching out is the first step, and it’s a straightforward one. Get help today with no obligation.

Call: (866) 575-9040

Most major insurance plans accepted. Our admissions team is available to answer your questions with no obligation.

A group of cheerful young adults going through group therapy in a brightly lit room.