Lighthouse Learning Series: Chemsex 101
Starting in October 2023 and running until February 2024, we will be covering a series of queer harm reduction topics with the goal of creating a more inclusive movement.
Priority is given to those living and working in New York due to program scope. However, the series will be held virtually and is open to all those who would like to build on their harm reduction knowledge to provide better services to LGB/TGNC+ folks!
Session description: In this interactive session, Chemsex and substance use within the queer community will be contextualized using epidemiology and syndemic theory. Principles of motivational interviewing and healing-centered care will be applied to engaging and affirming people who participate in Chemsex. Common Chemsex substances will be reviewed, myths and truths discussed, and general and substance-specific harm reduction/safety interventions will be learned and practiced. The session will conclude with policy and advocacy work needed to support people who participate in Chemsex.
Facilitator: Jona Tanguay, MMSc, PA-C, AAHIVS [pronunciation: yo – NAH TANG – ghee] (they/them) is a board-certified PA and HIV Specialist practicing in primary care at Whitman-Walker Health. They are the Medical Program Lead for Substance Use Disorders at Whitman-Walker, working to evolve and expand medical and harm reduction services provided to people who use drugs. Jona is a Clinical Instructor at Yale School of Medicine, and is a board member and current Vice President for Education at GLMA: Health Professionals Advancing LGBTQ+ Equality, the world’s largest and oldest association of LGBTQ+ healthcare professionals. Jona is a graduate of the Physician Associate Program at Yale School of Medicine, where they sat on the Dean’s Advisory Council for LGBTQI+ affairs. Their research and educational advocacy focus on harm reduction and evidence-based therapies for people who participate in Chemsex. They are the founder of ChemsexHarmReduction.org, an educational resource for providers and people who participate in Chemsex. Jona has a passion for event planning as well as community advocacy and engagement. Previously, they shared their expertise with AIDS Project and the LBGT PA Caucus, and sat on the executive board of the Brigham & Women’s Hospital LGBT+ Employee Resource Group.
