Learning that you have HIV will impact and change your life.
We believe no one living with HIV or AIDS should go without medical care, everyday resources, and emotional support.
In the days, weeks, months, and years after you learn of your HIV-positive status, it is expected that you will experience all kinds of emotions, including anger, shock, sadness, or even denial, in some cases. You may also struggle with depression. Palmetto Community Care is here so you don’t have to experience these emotions alone. Let us support you on your journey.
Living with HIV and AIDS can often feel lonely
Palmetto Community Care offers support groups for its clients. The groups are completely confidential and facilitated by PCC peer health educators.
Client Support Groups
Ongoing peer-led support groups are available to Palmetto Community Care clients.
Group sessions cover a variety of topics related to living with HIV, such as ending HIV stigma, positive living and interpersonal relationships.
Lunch and Learn
A free monthly series of informative presentations, including a catered lunch, is open to any person living with HIV, their family members, friends, and support network as well as any community members interesting in learning more about HIV.
HIV Self-Management
A two-and-a-half-hour presentation designed to help new and/or previously diagnosed individuals start on an effective path of self-advocacy. This presentation reviews medication adherence, lab tests, lifestyle choices and basic clinical knowledge, which helps clients participate in managing their own health care.
Healthy Relationships
A five-session, fun, interactive and educational group workshop designed to reduce stress around the issue of disclosure of HIV-status to family and friends, and to potential sex partners. We never force or even pressure anyone to disclose their status to people outside the group, but rather encourage attendees to think about the topic and discuss it with other HIV-positive group members.
The decision to disclose, and the timing, is ALWAYS up to the individual. The program provides attendees with a set of problem-solving skills which may be applied to disclosure, to help assess their own comfort and safety in any given disclosure situation. Monetary incentives are provided for completing this program.
WiLLOW
Women Involved in Life Learning from Other Women A four-session group workshop for women living with HIV/AIDS who are 18-50 years of age and have known their HIV status for at least six months.
The program is designed to provide women with information, skills, and strategies that will enhance the quality of their lives and specifically, encourage the adoption of safer-sex behaviors to prevent STD transmission and HIV reinfection. Monetary incentives are provided for completing this program. We began this program in 2011.
Truesdale Medical Center and Mental Health Counseling
We understand during this time, anxiety has increased, symptoms of depression may worsen, or life may feel a little overwhelming. Truesdale Medical Center is available to see clients and help support you through this challenging period. All sessions are secure and confidential. Telehealth is also available and can be done from the comfort of your home. Truesdale Medical Center is an open resource for you and your family in this difficult time.
