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HIV / AIDS Counsellor
HIV / AIDS counsellors perform several roles such as counselling, education, campaign planning and policymaking.

AIDS counsellors assist individuals that have been infected with the virus to overcome the trauma and put in place various coping mechanisms to help the individual lead as normal a life as possible.

AIDS counsellors also play an active role in setting up and running AIDS awareness campaigns. They are responsible for educating the broader population about the virus and on how to protect themselves against infection.

In addition, some counsellors are employed by industry to develop HIV/AIDS policies and strategies for their organization. Others may be a consultant to companies and run AIDS awareness and education programmes, as and when required.

Satisfying Aspects
- working and helping people solve problems
- meeting many different kinds of people
- using your talents, such as listening skills, empathy, etc.

Demanding aspects
- sometimes working irregular hours to meet the needs of people requiring help
- not particularly good remuneration
- frustration with clients who show no progress

Requirements
An HIV / AIDS counsellor should be/have;
- empathetic and caring
- good communication and listening skills
- maturity
- good life-coping skills

School Subjects
National Senior Certificate meeting degree requirements for a degree course
National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course

Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements.

Compulsory Subjects: English
Recommended Subjects: Geography, History, Life Sciences

Training
An individual intending to enter this career should have a matric certificate with some form of further education and training. Whilst a degree in Psychology or Social Work can be useful, one can also complete a 'Lay-Counsellor' certificate or diploma course.

Degree: BA: Psychology or Social Work - most universities

Some institutions, such as Boston City Campus, offer specialised training in this field. UNISA offers post-graduate courses - Social Behaviour Studies in HIV/AIDS and Legal Aspects of HIV/AIDS

Try to get details of the range of accredited courses being offered by registered training providers. For example, some churches offer courses for people who wish to become Christian Counsellors.

Employer
- General Public
- Public or private organisations
- Welfare Societies
- Self-employment

Contact
Treatment Action Campaign
P O Box 74
Nonqubela, 7793
Tel:(021) 788-3726

www.tac.org.za