The diagnosis of being HIV+ can be bewildering, confusing and frightening; having a confidential non-judgemental space in which to express those concerns is invaluable.
One of our counsellors,, Kate Stillmanm, who can be contacted over Skype or by phone, has worked extensively with people who are HIV+ since 1994. This was at a time when HIV & AIDS was a huge taboo and the outlook for those infected was bleak from a medical point of view and that coupled with the social stigma attached to the virus made for a very difficult time
Medical advances have been considerable in the last 15 years and the out look for those infected is now far more positive then it has ever been.
Attitudes are changing more slowly and it is these issues along with the prospect of how day to day life may change and what impact that change may have that is one of the many areas that clients feel the need to explore.
Others areas which require attention include the impact on family and friends;how and when to tell them; the impact on work and future intimate relationships.
Clearly there are lots of decisions and choices which may need to be made and this is where counselling can be hugely supportive.
