LGBTQIA Issues in Addiction and Recovery with Bethany Franklin, LCSW

LGBTQIA Issues in Addiction and Recovery with Bethany Franklin, LCSW

What remarkable journeys have people faced head-on against addiction? This conversation spotlights the specific challenges LGBTQIA+ people face in seeking help for substance use, and how one treatment centre is trying to change the odds. The episode centres on Ellen Stewart and co-host Dr. Pat speaking with lead family therapist and proud LGBTQIA+ community member, Bethany Franklin, LCSW, from Karen Treatment Centers.

Bethany explains why LGBTQIA+ people are "about two times more likely to develop an addiction" and how stigma, discrimination, isolation and family rejection can make treatment feel risky rather than safe. You’ll hear Bethany walk through the dedicated LGBTQIA+ track at Karen: three extra clinical groups a week, off-campus LGBTQIA+ recovery meetings, alumni speakers, individual and family support, and workshops focusing on art, strengths and experiential work.

She stresses the importance of visible safety cues like pride flags, asking about pronouns at intake, and a zero-tolerance policy for bullying: all small things that tell someone "you’re a safe therapist" and they can be themselves. Family dynamics get honest attention too. Bethany talks about working with families who aren’t yet supportive, helping patients decide if they’re ready to come out, and directing relatives to resources so they don’t project fear or disappointment onto their loved one.

She also highlights how legislation, rising hostility and anti-LGBTQIA+ sentiment fuel anxiety, internalised shame and relapse risk. For anyone in the community, there’s practical advice on Pride month: challenge yourself to attend supportive events, go with trusted friends, and reach out for professional help if anxiety or substance use starts creeping back in. As Bethany puts it, "Addiction loves isolation. And isolation loves addiction," so creating safe spaces and genuine connection isn’t optional – it’s life-saving.

If you or someone you care about is LGBTQIA+ and struggling with alcohol or other drugs, could specialised, affirming support be the next step toward feeling safe, seen and sober?