‘We’re leading the way here in Windsor’: New addictions program tailored to the 2SLGBTQ+ community
Whether because of discrimination, or stigma members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community use substances as at a rate two to four times higher than the general population.
“Because of our unique identities. Sometimes we need unique interventions,” said Colm Holmes, Windsor Pride Community president.
That’s the basis behind a new program launched by the Windsor Family Health Team, Windsor Pride and Family Services Windsor-Essex.
It’s called One Team Recovery, a free, five-week outpatient program tailored to the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
“This intervention encompasses our community in a way that their gender identity their sexual orientation is included in that recovery journey,” Holmes said.
The Windsor Family Health Team has designed the twice-weekly group sessions to be inclusive and offer abstinence and harm-reduction strategies for substance users.
The counsellors work with an evidence-based, SMART Recovery informed model of care and is a non-spiritual, non-faith-based alternative to 12-step programs.
“Windsor family health team has been doing that work and has put the training in to ensure that they're an environment where our community feels safe and can access services that are encompassing and welcoming to their identities,” Holmes said.
Windsor Family Health Team executive director Margo Reilly says the program is available for people aged 16 and up.
“When you're when you're in high school and you start being exposed to substance use, and really learning about your own identity that that is when you really need that intervention and that availability for a service,” Reilly said.
Reilly hopes the program can be replicated in communities across the province.
“We're leading the way here in Windsor,” she said. “I think there's some great opportunities to expand it into other jurisdictions.”
The program launches in January 2023 and those interested in taking part are encouraged to self-refer by calling 519-250-5524 or online and downloading the program application. Health and social service providers can also refer through the Ocean e-Referral platform. For more information visit: www.windsortcc.ca.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
BREAKING Israel attacks Iran, Reuters sources say; drones reported over Isfahan
Israel has attacked Iran, three people familiar with the matter told Reuters, as Iranian state media reported early on Friday that its forces had destroyed drones, days after Iran launched a retaliatory drone strike on Israel.
American millionaire Jonathan Lehrer denied bail after being charged with killing Canadian couple
American millionaire Jonathan Lehrer, one of two men charged in the killings of a Canadian couple in Dominica, has been denied bail.
Nearly half of China's major cities are sinking, researchers say
Nearly half of China's major cities are suffering 'moderate to severe' levels of subsidence, putting millions at risk of flooding especially as sea levels rise.
Prince Harry formally confirms he is now a U.S. resident
Prince Harry, the son of King Charles III and fifth in line to the British throne, has formally confirmed he is now a U.S. resident.
Judge says 'no evidence fully supports' murder case against Umar Zameer as jury starts deliberations
The judge presiding over the trial of a man accused of fatally running over a Toronto police officer is telling jurors the possible verdicts they may reach based on the evidence in the case.
Health Canada to change sperm donor screening rules for men who have sex with men
Health Canada will change its longstanding policy restricting gay and bisexual men from donating to sperm banks in Canada, CTV News has learned. The federal health agency has adopted a revised directive removing the ban on gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, effective May 8.
Colin Jost names one celebrity who is great at hosting 'Saturday Night Live'
Colin Jost, who co-anchors Saturday Night Live's 'Weekend Update,' revealed who he thinks is one of the best hosts on the show.
Sports columnist apologizes for 'oafish' comments directed at Caitlin Clark. The controversy isn't over
A male columnist has apologized for a cringeworthy moment during former University of Iowa superstar and college basketball's highest scorer Caitlin Clark's first news conference as an Indiana Fever player.
'Shopaholic' author Sophie Kinsella reveals brain cancer diagnosis
Sophie Kinsella, the best-selling author behind the 'Shopaholic' book series, has revealed that she is receiving treatment for brain cancer.