Substance use disorders affect all people differently. We have learned that gender identity, and the societal roles we learn to adhere to as we develop, play a significant role in the disease and recovery processes. Identifying and overcoming stereotypes, as well as learning to be who you are in recovery is key to long-term success. Read our Safe Place Policy:

LGBTQ Patient Advocate: George Gurrera RN LCSW-C MPA

George has been a dedicated patient advocate during his more than 20 years in the field of behavioral health treatment. He holds master’s degrees in public administration, social work, and nursing.

George is currently the Director of Quality, Compliance, & Risk Management and has been an active supporter of Ashley’s LGBTQ equity and inclusivity initiatives since joining the organization as the Assistant Director of Nursing in 2018 and serving as the Director of Patient & Provider Experience starting in 2020.

 Two of the main equity and inclusivity projects that George played an essential role in furthering was the development of the Safe Place Policy and the LGBTQ Informed Peer Services training that strengthened Ashley’s LGBTQ peer support groups. When staff are energized around an idea to make the patient experience at Ashley more equitable or inclusive, George is a member of the senior leadership team that is sought out to help bring those ideas into fruition.