AFFIRM Adult is an evidence-based, coping skills training intervention focused on reducing mental health issues and behavioral risks experienced by LGBTQ+ populations. The eight-module training is supported by a detailed manual, workbook and implementation guide to support clinicians and clients through the process. AFFIRM Adult emerged organically from AFFIRM Youth, which was designed to meet the needs of young adults and has evolved to include diverse LGBTQ+ adults across their lifetime.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is among the most effective interventions for addressing depression, anxiety, and suicidality. Through a trauma informed and affirming approach, AFFIRM Adult addresses clients’ challenges through a CBT framework while simultaneously attending to the experiences, and resiliencies of LGBTQ+ people. Mounting evidence suggests that the successful outcomes of AFFIRM Adult are consistent with findings from AFFIRM Youth.

AFFIRM Adult is an appropriate intervention option for any LGBTQ+ person experiencing stress (including those who are not presenting with clinical symptoms). It has been successfully implemented with diverse LGBTQ+ adults across a host of service delivery settings including colleges and universities, outpatient and inpatient substance abuse treatment programs, gender clinics, and community based mental health organizations.

AFFIRM Adult is typically delivered by trained and/or licensed counselors, social workers, and other mental health professionals in a group-based format. The eight modules are designed for flexible implementation with all LGBTQ+ adult populations, making AFFIRM Adult easy to integrate into existing programming.

Register for our AFFIRM Adult training to start delivering AFFIRM Adult in your practice or organization.

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Learn TO DELIVER AFFIRM ADULT PROGRAMS

Our 3-day, interactive training will teach you the theory, concepts and practices of AFFIRM Adult. You will learn the skills needed for effective delivery of AFFIRM Adult treatment strategies that are geared to diverse LGBTQ+ Adults experiencing mental health concerns. Expert trainers will engage you in hands-on, role playing and other activities that provide a stimulating and practical training experience. The elements of AFFIRM Adult are presented with a focus on: supporting evidence, principles for creating an affirmative practice context, and clinical considerations required for effective implementation of AFFIRM Adult interventions.