Being an affirmative coach involves:

1. Self-reflection – reflect on your own upbringing, attitudes and
   beliefs; acknowledge areas of privilege; recognize bias stemming
   from living in a heteronormative and gender-binaristic society.
2. Get involved – live an affirmative life; become familiar with the issues; strive for social justice and social change.
3. Create an affirmative setting – provide LGBT friendly reading material, literature, and resources; include affirming language on
   all paperwork; use the client’s preferred name; don’t resort to heteronormative assumptions, instead ask about a client’s partner.
4. Being open about my commitment to providing affirmative services with all clients, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
5. With heterosexual and/or cisgender clients, act as an advocate by challenging heterosexism and the gender binary.