Max Laffend is a licensed social worker and a Client Service Counselor at Hudson Pride Center. They began working with the LGBTQ+ community in Hudson County in 2015. Through their involvement with Hudson Pride they have presented on improving healthcare for LGBTQ individuals at both local community education events as well as larger events such as the National Conference on Social Work and HIV/AIDS in Washington D.C.

Max’s direct work with LGBTQ+ individuals includes helping navigate health care systems and overcoming barriers to care. At Hudson Pride, Max supports clients in need of documentation for gender affirming care, name and gender maker changes, and referrals to affirming and supportive providers. Max also focuses on developing databases of local LGBTQ+ affirming providers, linking providers to cultural awareness training, client advocacy within the medical field.

Outside of their work at Hudson Pride, Max works as a therapist for a private practice providing direct services to individuals and couples.