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Keystone Pride Recovery Initiative

The Keystone Pride Recovery Initiative (KPRI) addresses issues of access to and inclusion in behavioral health services for LGBTQI (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning and Intersex) consumers.

The Initiative develops recommendations that will benefit consumers seeking or being referred to behavioral health services throughout Pennsylvania by insuring quality care unimpeded by differences of sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.

Behavorial Health Services for LGBTQI Individuals: Getting Started

In 2008, The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) recognized the behavioral health disparities between the LGBTQI community and the larger population of consumers. the OMHSAS Deputy Secretary invited representatives of the LGBTQI consumer communities and advocates to a work group to discuss the needs and challenges of LGBTQI consumers in behavioral health systems. The group was also brought together to recommend improvements that could be implemented in order to help LGBTQI consumers.

The purpose was to ensure that OMHSAS, county mental health programs, behavioral health managed care organizations (BH-MCOs), and mental health provider agencies improve access to and quality of treatment and care for LGBTQI consumers. The work-group met in December 2008 and continued scheduled talks for six months into 2009. In attendance included LGBTQI individuals, family members, advocates, county representatives, BH-MCOs, OMHSAS staff, and academics. The group would later rename themselves the Keystone Pride Recovery Initiative.

Recommendations Presented and Policies Created:

Recommendations Presented to OMHSAS

The work group was able to publish their requests in a paper titled Issues of Access to and Inclusion in Behavioral Health Services for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, and Intersex Consumers. Read Here

The group also encouraged OMHSAS to release a position paper on conversion therapy. The paper was published in 2010.
Read Here

Bulletins and Policy Changes in OMHSAS:

After The successful publication of their presented recommendations, KPRI wrote two policy bulletin drafts for OMHSAS that were also published:

Non-Discrimination towards LGBTQI People. Read Here
Guidelines to Ensure Affirmative Enviroments and Clinically Appropriate Services for LGBTQI Consumers and Their Families. Read Here

Keystone Pride Recovery Initiative Training

Training through KPRI are available in three formats; a one day in person training open to all, a two day training for clinicians, and an online 2.5 hour training available through Drexel University. Short descriptions of the trainings can be found below.

For information about how to schedule a training, Contact Ginny Dikeman, vdikeman@pa.gov

Web Based Training: Creating a Welcoming and Affirming Environment (Course Code OL670) is available online through Drexel University, Click the Image below to redirect there.

Two Day Training: Principles and Practice for Clinicians Working with the Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual, Questioning and Intersex Individuals (LGBTQI).

This Seminar explores common mistakes in therapy, bias in documentation, suicide and health disparities including psychiatric and substance use risks, and trauma informed care.

One Day Training: Creating Welcoming and Affirming Services for Persons Who Are Lesbian, Gay. Bi-sexual, Transgender, Questioning or Intersex (LGBTQI)

This training explores the effects of language, culture, and power dynamics as well as helping us examine our own attitudes, values, and thoughts that are conditioned by our own upbringing and knowledge.

About the association

PMHCA is a state-wide member organization dedicated to the support of all people who seek aid for recovery from a mental illness at any stage in their journey. PMHCA provides resources, referrals, and support to those receiving services or in recovery from a mental illness.

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Contacts

PMHCA@pmhca.org
717-564-4930 or 1-800-887-6422
4105 Derry Street, Harrisburg, PA 17111

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