Psychotherapy for HIV infection

During psychotherapy, a qualified counselor helps you cope with or change your thoughts, feelings, or behaviors regarding HIV infection. Your family and caregivers may also benefit from psychotherapy.

• Psychotherapy is usually short-term (8 to 20 visits) but may take months or years.
• You may seek short-term therapy more than once as the HIV infection progresses.

Sessions may be individual or as part of a group.

There are several types of psychotherapy:

• Interpersonal therapy focuses on current relationships.
• Cognitive therapy focuses on thoughts and beliefs.
• Behavioral therapy focuses on current behaviors.
• Psychodynamic therapy focuses on unresolved childhood and teenage experiences and their impact on your current thoughts and feelings.

The choice of psychotherapy is based on your individual needs, background, and symptoms.

• People who are infected with HIV have a greater risk of developing depression.¹
• Psychotherapy helps you deal with the emotional aspects of the disease.
• Grief counseling helps you deal with end-of-life issues.

The effectiveness of psychotherapy varies. Some people respond very well. Others find minimal relief. Studies suggest that psychotherapy can effectively treat people with HIV who also have problems with depression.

Psychotherapy sometimes includes becoming a member of a support group. Support groups are often good places to share information, problem-solving tips, and emotions related to HIV infection. The organizations listed in the Other Places to Get Help section of the topic Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infection often sponsor support groups for people who test positive for HIV, as well as for their caregivers and friends. Contact one of these organizations to find the support group nearest you.

There are no known risks.

Select a therapist who is trained and experienced in treating people who have HIV infection.

Psychotherapy may be expensive, depending on the type of therapy and the provider. Check with your health plan to determine whether coverage for psychotherapy is provided.

For more information, see the topic Depression.

Complete the special treatment information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this treatment.

Citations

1. Ciesla JA, Roberts JE (2001). Meta-analysis of the relationship between HIV infection and risk for depressive disorder. American Journal of Psychiatry, 158(5): 725–730.