AFFIRM is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)-based group designed to help LGBTQ+ youth and young adults manage stress. As an evidence-based intervention, AFFIRM supports mental and sexual health, enhances coping skills, and validates the strengths of its participants. AFFIRM is open to individuals aged 12-21. Groups run throughout the year, and most insurance is accepted. Grants may also be available for those unable to pay.

AFFIRM integrates identity affirmation with CBT to improve wellbeing. Approaches include goal setting, grounding, developing safe social networks, exploring the impact of thoughts, and more.

Options’ AFFIRM groups were featured in The Oregonian. Read more here.

• 70% of AFFIRM participants reported increased hope pathway thinking (i.e. the ability to generate multiple routes from the present to the desired future)
• 63% of AFFIRM participants reported reduced depression
• 72% of AFFIRM participants reported increased cognitive stress appraisal as challenges instead of as threats (i.e. viewing stressful situations as more of a challenge than a threat has been associated with better mental health)

Visit Project Youth AFFIRM to learn more about the research behind the program, read FAQs, and more.