AFFIRMATIVE TRAINING AND CONSULTATION
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer+ (LGBTQ+) people are twice as likely as heterosexual, cisgender individuals to experience depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, according to the American Psychiatric Association (APA).
The APA has also found that a lack of competence among mental health practitioners has created a gap in quality care for the LGBTQ+ community. To narrow this gap, we’ve developed our comprehensive AFFIRM programs. They are rooted in our 25+ years of practice experience integrated with cutting-edge LGBTQ+ research. We provide training to mental health providers across a wide range of social services, education, and mental health settings.
Our Trainings
LGBTQ+ youth have disproportionate mental health risks compared with their non-LGBTQ+ peers. Research suggests that interventions for LGBTQ+ individuals that incorporate affirmative practice techniques improve treatment effectiveness and outcomes. AFFIRM Youth teaches mental health practitioners affirmative CBT treatment strategies to help LGBTQ+ youth experiencing mental health concerns.
LGBTQ+ adults are often exposed to internal and external sources of stress related to their identities. AFFIRM Adult uses an inclusive and affirming approach toward sexual and gender diversity and teaches mental health practitioners affirmative CBT treatment strategies that will help diverse LGBTQ+ adult clients experiencing mental health concerns.
LGBTQ+ youth need and deserve unconditional love and support. it is critical to the well-being of youth that caregivers ACT affirmatively with and toward their child (even if parents or guardians are still sorting out their own feelings). AFFIRM Caregiver teaches mental health practitioners to deliver affirmative caregiving strategies to parents and other caregivers of LGBTQ+ youth.
When professionals have a deeper understanding of the needs and experiences of LGBTQ+ people, they are better able to help LGBTQ+ clients and their families disrupt negative health and wellness outcomes AND achieve better outcomes. AFFIRM Pro teaches facilitators how to improve the capacity of professionals in their organization to be that affirmative ally for LGBTQ+ youth and adults in their care.
“This has been one of the most practical training sessions I’ve ever attended.
It offers a rich collection of clinical tools, ready-to-use checklists, and visually engaging infographics to support effective intervention… I especially appreciate how Shelley and Ashley openly share their clinical experiences…. Their insights into real-world problem-solving are incredibly valuable—particularly for those who are new to the field..”
“The trainers really brought the material to life…
it was wonderful getting a sense of the history of where AFFIRM began and how [it has] continued to evolve. The breakout practice sessions were also very helpful and being able to ask questions and participate throughout the training… thank you!!”
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AFFIRM in Practice
Our colleagues at Hugh Lane Wellness Foundation have been trained in AFFIRM Caregiver and are now implementing AFFIRM Caregiver groups for parents and other caregivers of LGBTQ+ children and teens to help them build the skills they need to support their kids and foster their resilience.
LGBTQ+ youth with affirming parents have better mental health and well-being outcomes—even in the face of other stressors! We are so proud to work with leaders like Hugh Lane!
Resources
AFFIRM Youth Info Sheet
AFFIRM Caregiver Info Sheet
AFFIRM Adult Info Sheet
Gender-Affirming Care for Young Children
AFFIRM Caregiver Infographic
AFFIRM Youth Infographic
AFFIRM Youth Tipsheet
AFFIRM Tips for Therapists
AFFIRM Caregiver Data Dashboard
Moving Beyond Change Efforts: Evidence and Action to Support and Affirm LGBTQI+ Youth
Supporting Family of LGBTQ+ People
LGBTQ+ Trauma-Informed Care
10 Self-Care Tips for Practitioners
MORE Resources
The Center of Excellence, funded through a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, has many resources to support practitioners working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Organization training
AND CONSULTATION
OPPORTUNITIES
Implement AFFIRM into your practice with organizational training and one-on-one guidance.
What People Say About AFFIRM