Creating a Peer Mentoring Program to Link Long-Time Survivors with HIV/AIDS with More Recently Diagnosed People

I work for Colorado Health Network. I am attempting to design, as my capstone project for my MSW, a training manual for a peer-mentorship program. The manual will cover five (5) modules.

Peer Mentor Training Program Outline: HIV/AIDS Support

Target Audience: Individuals living long-term with HIV/AIDS who are interested in becoming peer mentors for newly diagnosed individuals or those struggling with accepting their diagnosis.

Program Goals:

• Equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively mentor and support individuals newly diagnosed with HIV/AIDS or struggling with their diagnosis.
• Foster a supportive community among mentors and mentees through monthly group meetings.
• Promote positive health outcomes and well-being for both mentors and mentees.

Module Breakdown:

Module 1: Introduction & Program Overview (2 hours)

• Welcome and Introductions:

  • Build rapport and create a safe space for open communication.
  • Review program goals, expectations, and confidentiality guidelines.

• HIV/AIDS Basics:

  • Update participants on current HIV/AIDS knowledge, including transmission, treatment options, and available resources.
  • Address common misconceptions and stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.

• Role of the Peer Mentor:

  • Discuss the distinct role of a peer mentor compared to healthcare professionals or therapists.
  • Emphasize that mentors are not representatives or employees of Colorado Health Network.
  • Introduce the concept of boundaries and ethical considerations in mentoring relationships.

• Overview of Monthly Group Meetings:

  • Explain the purpose and structure of separate monthly meetings for mentors and mentees.
  • Introduce Bill Halstead as the facilitator and peer training instructor.

Module 2: Supporting Mentees through Challenge (2 hours)

• Understanding Mentee Experiences:

  • Explore the potential challenges and emotions faced by newly diagnosed individuals and those struggling with acceptance.
  • Discuss the impact of stigma, disclosure concerns, and navigating healthcare systems.
  • Highlight the importance of empathy, active listening, and non-judgmental support.

• Suicide Awareness and Prevention:

  • Train mentors to recognize signs and symptoms of suicidal ideation.
  • Provide resources and strategies for responding to and supporting mentees at risk.
  • Emphasize the importance of referring mentees experiencing suicidal thoughts to mental health professionals.

• Mental Health Considerations:

  • Discuss the potential for mentors or mentees to experience mental health challenges.
  • Provide information on Colorado Health Network’s Behavior Health team and the referral process.
  • Encourage open communication and self-care practices for both mentors and mentees.

Module 3: Sharing Your Story – The Power of Lived Experience (2 hours)

• The Value of Shared Experience:

  • Explore how mentors’ own experiences with HIV/AIDS can be a powerful tool for connecting with and supporting mentees.
  • Encourage self-reflection on personal strengths, challenges, and coping mechanisms.
  • Discuss the importance of maintaining appropriate boundaries and avoiding over-identification with mentees’ stories.

• Storytelling Techniques:

  • Provide tools and guidance for effectively sharing personal experiences in a supportive and empowering way.
  • Practice sharing stories in a safe and respectful environment.

• Building Trust and Rapport:

  • Explore strategies for building trust and rapport with mentees based on authenticity, empathy, and shared experiences.
  • Discuss active listening skills and techniques for fostering open communication.

Module 4: Motivational Interviewing for Positive Change (2 hours)

• Introduction to Motivational Interviewing (MI):

  • Explain the core principles and philosophy of MI as a collaborative approach to supporting behavior change.
  • Differentiate MI from traditional advice-giving or persuasion techniques.

• MI Skills and Techniques:

  • Practice open-ended questioning, reflective listening, and affirmation to elicit mentees’ own motivations and goals.
  • Explore strategies for rolling with resistance, supporting self-efficacy, and promoting autonomy.

• Adapting MI to HIV/AIDS Context:

  • Discuss specific challenges and considerations when using MI with individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
  • Practice applying MI skills to common scenarios encountered by mentors and mentees.

Module 5: Program Completion and Next Steps (2 hours)

• Program Review and Feedback:

  • Provide an opportunity for participants to share their experiences and feedback on the training program.
  • Address any questions or concerns.

• Maintaining Effective Mentoring Relationships:

  • Discuss strategies for sustaining positive mentoring relationships and navigating potential challenges.
  • Highlight the importance of ongoing communication, setting boundaries, and seeking support when needed.

• Next Steps and Resources:

  • Provide information on ongoing support and resources available to mentors and mentees.
  • Celebrate participants’ completion of the training program and their commitment to mentoring.

Additional Notes:

• This outline is a suggestion and can be adapted to fit the specific needs and context of your program.
• Consider incorporating interactive activities, role-playing exercises, and group