Why We Launched Utah’s First Affirming IOP for LGBTQIA+ Adults
May 14, 2025
We wish we could tell you the launch of our new Affirmative Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) began with a heartwarming story. But the truth is: it began with crisis.
Clients arrived in deep emotional distress. Some were overwhelmed. Some were in active crisis. All were facing the weight of living in a world that has become increasingly hostile to LGBTQIA+ people — especially transgender, nonbinary, and intersex individuals.
This May, in recognition of Mental Health Awarness Month we’re reminded that visibility alone is not enough.
Affirming mental health care is urgent.
And access to it can be life-saving.
According to The Trevor Project’s 2024 National Survey:
90% of transgender and nonbinary youth have worried about being denied access to gender-affirming care.
46% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered suicide in the past year.
And nearly 2 in 3 LGBTQ youth say that recent political debates negatively impacted their mental health.
These numbers aren’t just data points. They are a call to action. That’s why Flourish Therapy launched Utah’s first LGBTQIA+ Affirmative IOP — to meet that call with care.
About the Affirming IOP
The Flourish IOP is a 12-week, in-person program designed for LGBTQIA+ adults who need more support than weekly therapy but don’t require hospitalization. It meets four days a week and provides:
Intensive, trauma-informed therapy
Case management
Life skills training/Non-violent communication
Community-building
Reflecting On Our First Week:
““The first week of the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) at Flourish Therapy Inc. proved to be both productive and deeply supportive for clients navigating a time of heightened emotional and psychological stress. Many participants entered the program feeling a profound sense of urgency and vulnerability, particularly due to the current political climate, which poses real threats to their safety and well-being. The program’s unique structure—especially its exceptional therapist-to-client ratio—allowed for highly personalized care, creating a safe and validating space for individuals to process their experiences. Clients reported feeling seen, supported, and empowered, laying a strong foundation for continued healing and growth in the weeks ahead.””
Why It Matters
Despite being more likely to seek out mental health support, LGBTQIA+ individuals are twice as likely to receive poor quality care than their heterosexual peers. Only 12% of outpatient mental health programs in the U.S. offer LGBTQIA-specific programming. And for transgender individuals, 23% avoid care altogether due to fear of mistreatment.
That’s why Flourish Therapy exists — and why this IOP is an expansion of our mission.