With the new laws being passed in different states related to gay/same sex marriages,  the recent announcement by Bruce Jenner about his sexual orientation, and ongoing articles with his Kardashian family related to his being transgender, it is time to talk a bit about stigma. We have spoken often on this show about how there is so much stigma related to addiction and how difficult this makes conversation and support attainable and popular.  Add to this the stigma of our loved ones who are being judged because of sexual preferences. Reaching out for help for an addiction or substance use problem is difficult.  Once the decision is made to reach out and start the road to recovery , the real work begins.  Most professionals in the field of addiction will tell us that treatment is hard work.  Maintaining recovery is hard work.  It is logical that feeling comfortable and supportive in the treatment and recovery environment can improve the odds of success. This week we discuss a program that could be just the environment for you or your loved ones experiencing the stigma towards addictions, mental illnesses, and/or sexual preferences. The conversation begins with Connie Collins, the Executive Director at Stepping Stone Treatment Center in San Diego, CA.  Mike, Pete, and Chris join in the conversation.  Pete and Mike are board members of this non-profit program and Chris is an alumnus as well as current program director at the facility. The Mission Statement of Stepping Stone is to create, improve and deliver alcohol and other drug treatment, HIV and other health interventions, recovery, education and prevention services specializing in the challenges of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender communities of  the San Diego regions. Although located in the San Diego area and focused on LGBT communities, everyone is welcome.