#USA #Los Angeles #Mental Health Care #LGBTQIA+ Program #Virtual IOP

Clear Behavioral Health Launches LGBTQIA+ Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program

In a significant step towards enhancing mental health support for marginalized communities, Clear Behavioral Health has recently unveiled its LGBTQIA+ Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), a pioneering initiative designed specifically for individuals requiring comprehensive mental health care without the need for residential treatment. This program is primarily aimed at those who necessitate more support than weekly therapy can provide and is fully available online across California.

Addressing Critical Needs in the LGBTQIA+ Community

Research indicates alarming mental health statistics among LGBTQIA+ individuals, with more than 40% of transgender adults reporting attempted suicide while those in the community are nearly four times more likely to experience suicidal thoughts compared to their heterosexual counterparts. This new program aims to confront the long-standing barriers that have prevented LGBTQIA+ individuals from seeking the mental health services they desperately need, ensuring that care is affirming, accessible, and tailored to their unique experiences.

Matthew Zubiller, CEO of Your Behavioral Health, expressed his pride in launching this program, emphasizing that it allows for greater reach into communities that have previously struggled with accessing appropriate and affirming care. "Our goal is to foster belonging, resilience, and lasting mental wellness for every individual who trusts us with their journey," he stated.

Expert-Led, Affirming Care

The LGBTQIA+ Virtual IOP features a multidisciplinary team comprised of clinicians, many of whom identify as LGBTQIA+ themselves, along with allies who are well-versed in queer-affirming and trauma-informed practices. This team understands the diverse and unique challenges faced by the community—from bullying to family rejection and discrimination—and aims to leverage the incredible resilience inherent within LGBTQIA+ populations.

"We are excited to expand access to safe, affirming care by building on the proven effectiveness of our clinical model and tailoring it specifically to the needs of LGBTQIA+ clients across all of California," said Lindsey Rae Ackerman, Executive Director of Clinical Support Services.

The IOP employs evidence-based therapeutic modalities customized for LGBTQIA+ clients, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-focused interventions within a supportive and affirming framework. This approach affirms each client's identity journey while addressing the pervasive mental health symptoms linked to minority stress, internalized stigma, and systemic discrimination.

Accessible and Private Treatment Options

The virtual delivery of this program not only enhances accessibility statewide but also protects client privacy, offering a safe therapeutic environment for those who might not be out in all aspects of their lives. Clear Behavioral Health has ensured that the program is compatible with most major insurance plans, making affirming mental health care available to a wider audience.

Logan Vournas, Director of the LGBTQIA+ Virtual Track, emphasized the importance of validation and empowerment within the treatment process, stating, "Our LGBTQIA+ Virtual Program provides the validation and empowerment the queer and trans community deserves to feel safe and secure with themselves and the world around them."

Creating Life-Saving Spaces

Research highlights that LGBTQIA+ adults who have access to affirming mental health care exhibit significantly reduced suicide rates and improved mental health outcomes. The LGBTQIA+ Virtual IOP aims not just to be effective in treatment but to create an environment where clients can explore their authentic selves without fear of discrimination or judgment.

This program takes an intersectional approach that acknowledges how race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexuality, socioeconomic status, and ability impact each individual’s life experiences. By incorporating these diverse factors into treatment plans, the program prioritizes culturally competent care.

Comprehensive Support Services

Among its many offerings, the LGBTQIA+ Virtual IOP includes specialized group sessions focusing on topics such as coming out, family dynamics, identity exploration, and relationships. Individual and family therapy sessions, minority stress management, and connections to LGBTQIA+ community resources are also part of the comprehensive services available.

With flexible scheduling options in the morning and evening, the program aims to accommodate individuals’ various needs while accepting insurance to further reduce financial barriers to access.

Commitment to Inclusive Care

Ultimately, the LGBTQIA+ Virtual IOP embodies Clear Behavioral Health's commitment to fundamentally transforming the way mental health care is delivered to LGBTQIA+ individuals. By ensuring that treatment is personalized and inclusive, Clear Behavioral Health reinforces its pledge to build a supportive environment where clients' identities are celebrated and integrated into their healing processes.

For more information on the LGBTQIA+ Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program or to book a confidential consultation, individuals can visit Clear Behavioral Health's website or contact them at 877-799-1985.

About Clear Behavioral Health

Based in Southern California, Clear Behavioral Health stands as a leading provider of comprehensive mental health and addiction services. Known for its tailored, compassionate care, Clear aids individuals, teens, and families while ensuring services are accessible, effective, and supported by insurance. Their programs span detox, residential treatment, partial hospitalization, and outpatient services, furthering their mission to enhance overall community wellness.