LGBTQ+ Healthcare Experts Deem New Law's Gender Affirming Care Ban “Destructive”

Recent laws banning federal funding for gender-affirming medical treatments to trans young adults has generated a battle cry among LGBTQ+ mental healthcare experts who are encouraging the public to educate themselves on the issue and lend their voices in protest against what they deem to be “inhumane” treatment of this vulnerable community. Mental health and substance abuse counselor Mell McCracken, who treats many in the trans community in their position as Executive Director of No Matter What Recovery in Los Angeles, is one of many providers who support the recommendations of universally recognized health organizations including the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH). Since 1979, WPATH has conducted extensive research on transgender healthcare, consistently finding that denying gender-affirming care can contribute to mental health crises, substance abuse and even suicide.

“We’re at a critical point in which the trans community is being singled out, marginalized and vilified by those who are either woefully ignorant of the issues or willfully disregard the science and progress that legitimize their plight,” says McCracken.  “The medical and mental health communities have conducted decades of scientifically based research that gives us a better understanding of trans issues and we now stand on solid footing when it comes to our role in society.  Basing policy on ignorance is never a prudent or just way of moving forward.”

McCracken says that recent setbacks are part and parcel of any progressive movement and they advise that instead of feeling defeated, the public should face these challenges by taking action.  They recommend getting educated on trans issues as well as current legislative efforts meant to stymie the progress that’s been made on their behalf.

“We must remember all of the strides made in terms of social progress including civil rights, LGBTQ rights, gay marriage, etc. were originally met with extreme aversion and hostility,” they said.  “We met that resistance by fighting for these rights.  The same holds true today as there are myriad courses of action that can be taken.  You can start by reaching out to your congressperson and local legislators to express your support for the trans community — they need to hear from you.  Enlist your friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, fellow church members, fellow students, etc. and educate them about the daily struggles faced by this vulnerable population.  Also, consider joining a support group (online or in-person) or, if you can’t find one, form your own.”

McCracken and the executive team at No Matter What Recovery also recommend supporting the efforts of national advocacy groups such as Lamda Legal, GLAAD, HRC, ACLU, etc.  On a local level, unfair, discriminatory policies, ordinances and practices targeting the trans community can be fought by mounting petitions, speaking out at city council meetings, writing op-eds in local newspapers, speaking out on social media networks, etc.  Also, they encourage mobilizing efforts politically by running for public office (including school boards) as such positions hold tremendous power on a local level.  

For trans individuals facing crises, the No Matter What Recovery team recommend visiting their local LGBTQ+ center or reaching out to the National Center for Transgender Equality, Transgender Law Center and/or the Human Rights Campaign, which offer various forms of support.  For those in crisis situations, the Trevor Project has proven to be a lifesaver.

No Matter What Recovery, a dual diagnosis substance abuse and mental health treatment program in Los Angeles, California, maintains a strong focus on LGBTQ+ affirming care while addressing trauma, family systems, and sexualized drug use (commonly referred to as chem-sex). Through individual therapy and group processing, the team of Masters level and certified clinicians works with clients to address the triggers that drive a person to misuse substances. In addition to offering therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS), the clinicians also provide psychoeducation on the various facets of mental health. No Matter What Recovery facilitates group discussions focusing on trauma, relapse prevention, healthy communication behaviors, life skills, goal-setting, and somatic experiencing. No Matter What Recovery provides all levels of care, from inpatient to outpatient, as well as sober living residences and an alumni program to keep individuals engaged beyond treatment.

Visit NoMatterWhatRecovery.com for more information or call (323) 792-2948.

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No Matter What Recovery
City: Los Angeles
Address: 3409 W Temple St
Website: https://nomatterwhatrecovery.com/