Cognitive therapy for clients newly diagnosed as HIV-positive.

Abstract

Receiving an HIV-positive diagnosis is a unique stressor which may cause significant emotional distress. Particular themes may be associated with the diagnosis including an altered self-view, concerns about physical health, relationship issues, a revised view of the future, and a search for meaning. Cognitive therapy is an effective, shortterm model, appropriate for addressing these challenges. Specific therapeutic techniques for alleviating distress will be outlined.The AIDS epidemic has expanded in the past decade and the role of clinicians in treating this population has also grown. As more individuals become infected, clinicians will be increasingly called upon to offer services. Some empirical studies have found cognitive and behavioral therapies are efficacious with this population (Chesney & Folkman, 1994). However, no writings have systematically described the techniques and strategies involved in conducting cognitive therapy with HIV-positive clients. In addition, HIVpositive individuals may present for treatment at many points in their illness. Different stages of the illness may be associated with unique challenges. Initial notification of an HIV-positive diagnosis may be a particular stressor for which clients seek treatment. This article will review the issues of clients newly diagnosed as HIV-positive and will outline cognitive therapy interventions for this population.

Couple-Focused Interventions for HIV-Serodiscordant Couples During Transition to Motherhood

“…The newly diagnosed mother has a relatively brief period of time during which she needs to be able to make appropriate informed decisions that will affect herself, her baby, and her partner (Hawkins et al 2005). An individual who receives an HIV-positive diagnosis may not accurately understand the implications of the diagnosis (Gluhoski 1996). Thus, an initial therapeutic task should be to teach the importance of gathering valid and comprehensive information about the virus.…”

“…A useful technique might be to list the advantages and disadvantages of disclosing to a particular individual. Dominant issues at the relational level include expectations about rejection, disclosing HIV status, and coping with the reactions of others (Gluhoski 1996). Pregnant women who learn they are HIV-infected also need to decide if, when, and how they will disclose their illness.…”

“…Receiving an HIV-positive diagnosis is a unique stressor that undoubtedly causes significant distress (Gluhoski 1996). The diagnosis of HIV infection during pregnancy can be an overwhelmingly shocking and life-changing experience for the newly diagnosed woman and her spouse or partner (Hawkins et al 2005).…”