UCSF

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) people experience health disparities due to minority stress. We investigated the applicability of AWARENESS, a 10-session cognitive-behavioral intervention, to intersectional minority stress. We assessed the impact of the intervention format (group vs. individual sessions) and modality (in-person vs. telehealth). AWARENESS was piloted among SGM women in individual sessions and SGM people in a group format. Session progress notes, feedback surveys, and semi-structured feedback interviews were analyzed. Twelve participants began the intervention. Eight participants provided feedback (n=5 in the women’s pilot, n=3 in the group pilot). Participants reported learning new skills and applying the intervention in their daily lives. In both pilots, participants applied the intervention psychoeducation and skills to multiple identities and characteristics. Feedback emphasized the importance of integrating an intersectional perspective consistently and directly throughout the intervention. Although the group and telehealth formats provided useful opportunities for connection and support, future iterations of AWARENESS may need to approach enrollment of participants with a personalized approach to determine which format or modality will be most beneficial. This study suggests that AWARENESS is feasible for intersectional minority stress. We outline future intervention modifications to improve participant engagement and address intersectional minority stressors.