The CHARISMA counseling intervention represents a significant step forward in supporting women’s use of HIV prevention products such as oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and vaginal microbicides. This blog post will explore the outcomes of a pilot study conducted in Johannesburg, South Africa, and discuss how practitioners can leverage these findings to enhance their skills and improve service delivery.
Understanding the CHARISMA Intervention
The CHARISMA intervention was developed to empower women by increasing their agency in relationships and promoting safer adherence to HIV prevention methods. It aims to constructively engage male partners, challenge harmful gender norms, and reduce intimate partner violence (IPV).
Pilot Study Overview
The pilot study involved 95 female participants and utilized lay counselors to deliver the CHARISMA intervention. The study assessed the feasibility and acceptability of this approach through participant surveys and clinic staff interviews. The results indicated that a two-session relationship counseling intervention with a six-month follow-up was generally well-received.
Key Findings and Implications for Practitioners
- Feasibility and Acceptability: Most participants found the intervention relevant and helpful, with positive impacts on their relationships and product use.
- Use of Lay Counselors: The success of lay counselors in delivering the intervention suggests that they are a viable alternative to nurses, offering cost-effective staffing solutions.
- Emotional Support for Counselors: Practitioners should be aware of the emotional toll on counselors dealing with traumatic stories and ensure adequate support systems are in place to prevent burnout.
- Male Engagement Challenges: Engaging male partners remains a challenge. Practitioners should explore alternative strategies that do not rely solely on clinic visits or female partner mediation.
Enhancing Practitioner Skills
Practitioners can improve their skills by integrating the following strategies based on CHARISMA’s outcomes:
- Counseling Techniques: Incorporate interactive, skills-based counseling techniques that focus on relationship dynamics and empowerment.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Understand cultural norms around gender roles and IPV to tailor interventions effectively.
- Flexible Delivery Models: Consider offering both in-person and computer-based counseling options to accommodate different preferences.
- Continuous Learning: Attend webinars or conferences focused on innovative counseling interventions like CHARISMA to stay updated with best practices.
Encouraging Further Research
The pilot study highlights areas where further research is needed, such as optimizing intervention delivery modes and follow-up periods that balance participant needs with clinic resources. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in research initiatives or collaborate with academic institutions to refine these interventions further.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Acceptability and feasibility of the CHARISMA counseling intervention to support women’s use of pre-exposure prophylaxis: results of a pilot study.
Conclusion
The CHARISMA intervention offers valuable insights into supporting women’s use of HIV prevention products. By implementing these findings, practitioners can enhance their skills, improve client outcomes, and contribute to broader public health goals. Continuous learning and adaptation are key to addressing the challenges faced in this field effectively.
