Strengths-based behavioral telehealth with sexual and gender diverse clients at Center on Halsted. (2nd January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Swenson, Ing; Gates, Trevor G.; Dentato, Michael P.; Kelly, Brian L.
• Is Part Of: Social work in health care. Volume 60:Number 1(2021)
• Page Start: 78
• Page End: 92
• Publication Date: 2021-01-02
• Subjects: Sexual and gender diversity -- lesbian -- gay -- bisexual -- transgender -- queer -- telehealth -- telemedicine -- behavioral health -- counseling; Medical social work -- Periodicals; 362.10425
• DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2021.1885561
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0098-1389

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated an immediate response and rapid transition from traditional face-to-face behavioral health services to behavioral telehealth at an organization serving sexual and gender diverse (SGD) individuals in Chicago. In this practice innovations article, we explore the unfolding public health crisis and the impact on service delivery for SGD individuals. Using a large multi-service organization as a case study, this paper describes how key members of the staff and leadership team shifted services online as a means of responding to isolation, loneliness, and disparities in access to healthcare for Chicago SGD communities. Lessons learned and practice recommendations are presented.