AFFIRM 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 has been developed specifically for LGBTQ+ youth and has been found to be effective with this vulnerable population across a range of settings (e.g., schools, health care centers, foster care, behavioral health clinics). Designed for any LGBTQ+ young person experiencing stress (including those who are not presenting with clinical symptoms), AFFIRM has been successfully implemented with diverse LGBTQ+ youth ages 11-29 as well as with adults.

Extensive research has demonstrated that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is among the most effective interventions for child, adolescent, and adult depression, anxiety, and suicidality. Using a CBT framework and a trauma informed and affirming approach, AFFIRM addresses young people’s mental health challenges while simultaneously attending to the experiences, and resiliencies of LGBTQ+ people.

In 2024, AFFIRM became the first and only LGBTQ+ youth intervention to be recognized as a promising approach in the California Evidence Based Clearinghouse and was included in SAMHSA’s Evidence Based Guide: Suicide Prevention Strategies for Underserved Youth.

AFFIRM 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+ youth populations, making AFFIRM Youth easy to integrate into existing programming. AFFIRM is currently being implemented in a host of sites across North America as well as in Australia, The Netherlands, and Hungary - add the other countries and Mexico and Hong Kong and the UK and other countries.