Course Description
Created specifically for behavioral health practitioners, this is the second module in the two-part (7-hour) series focused on HIV and AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) in America. This second module focuses on psychosocial factors; for example, once infected with the HIV virus, there is a commonly shared sense of shame that, in large measure, is the result of the social stigma attributed to HIV and AIDS. Topics explored include relevant legal and ethical standards, the effect of shame and stigma on individuals’ help-seeking and psychosocial functioning, and psychosocial interventions for individuals diagnosed with HIV and/or AIDS. The online content incorporates case vignettes and short web-based video clips. To print a certificate of completion, the online posttest must be passed with a score of 80% or better.
Target Audience
This course is designed for clinicians practicing in medical, behavioral health, and social service settings. The two-part series provides the mandated seven hours of HIV and AIDS coursework as required for California LCSWs/LMFTs/LPCCs' first license renewal.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, readers will be able to do the following:
- Identify the psychosocial issues and challenges facing individuals who are HIV-positive.
- Identify the laws pertaining to the use and disclosure of an individual's HIV status.
- Identify the laws pertaining to clinical documentation of an individual's HIV status in a behavioral health record.
- Identify common types of discrimination resulting from HIV-related stigma.
- Identify the nature of trauma experienced by individuals who are HIV-positive, as well as principles of a trauma-informed approach.