AFFIRM Caregiver Training
Navigating the journey of supporting an LGBTQ+ child can be overwhelming, and it’s common to have questions or concerns along the way. I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to explore these emotions and develop the tools you need to be the best ally and parent you can be. Whether you’re just beginning to understand your child’s identity or you are looking for support through the ups and downs, I am here to guide you with understanding, respect, and empathy.
The next 7 session virtual group begins on Thursday, May 8th
What is AFFIRM Caregiver?
AFFIRM Caregiver is designed to work with all caregivers of LGBTQ+ children and youth. This includes biological and adoptive parents, kinship/family members of origin, chosen family, foster/resource parents, and all other people who parent and support LGBTQ+ young people.
The primary goals associated with the Affirmative Caregiving approach:
1. Increasing knowledge and understanding about the impacts of homo/trans/bi phobic
stigma (including parental rejection) on the lives of LGBTQ+ youth;
2. Recognizing the importance of affirmative reactions to LGBTQ+ youth;
3. Decreasing unhelpful thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors rooted in homo/trans/biphobic stigma;
4. Understanding the potential role and impact of trauma on the lives of LGBTQ+ youth;
5. Providing identity-affirming support to LGBTQ+ youth;
6. Accessing resources that support affirming caregiving strategies; and
7. Engaging in caregiver self-care.
AFFIRM Caregiver is an evidence-informed, seven-session, manualized intervention to enhance affirmative parenting practices that promote the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ youth. The AFFIRM Caregiver model emerged from AFFIRM Youth, an evidence-based affirmative Cognitive Behavior Therapy intervention that has been scientifically shown to reduce psychosocial distress and improve coping skills among LGBTQ+ youth (Austin, Craig & D’Souza, 2017; Craig & Austin, 2016).