Monday, May 4, 2009

How do I become an HIV/AIDS counselor

How do I become an HIV/AIDS counselor?
how do I become an HIV/AIDS counselor in MA? I would like to work in the field but I don't know how to start about doing that is there a special degree that I would need to have do I have to go to school and get a certification for that? if anyone has more information for me whatever it is that would be greatly appreciated. I live in MA Thnks.
STDs - 4 Answers
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1 :
Check with your state's Department of Health to find out what the requirements are for your state.
2 :
It depends where in MA you live. You can start by volunteering with an AIDS Service Organization (ASO). Check out through the state Department of Health or search for the State Director of HIV/AIDS and see when free courses are offered. I work for a national agency that does trainings in MA which are offered to ASO's. Good Luck/
3 :
health department training
4 :
Here is a link to the HIV/AIDS Provider Training Calendar for JAN-JUN 2009 courses offered (and it looks like required for specific positions) through the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, HIV/AIDS Bureau. One-day courses are $25 and two-day courses are $40. This could be a great way to jump start a career in this field and perhaps meet several people working in the profession at the same time (job leads). HIV/AIDS BUREAU TRAINING POLICIES: http://www.rcc.mass.edu/Download/Spring1092009.pdf Otherwise, you should be looking to study, or search for an on-the-job training position, in the fields of health care, medical care, or public health education. With just 2 years of professional experience or a Bachelor's degree you would be qualified for the following position, which gives specific requirements. Health Education Coordinator: https://jobs.hrd.state.ma.us/recruit/public/31100001/job/job_view.do?postingId=J17131&code=search.public&companyId=61 The job announcement above is not an entry level position but gives very specific requirements to help you plan how to enter this field. You should look under your local County Health Department as well, to seek out qualifications for an entry-level HIV Educator position (which is a more likely title than Counselor). If you are already at all knowledgeable and/or experienced in this area you might seek a volunteer position with a local AIDS Service Organization (non-profit) where part-time HIV workers are needed and may be trained, often without prior experience whatsoever. I would also check for courses at a local Community College that may or may not lead to a Certificate. There are different paths of entry into this field, the appropriate combination of coursework and experience will definately give you a competitive advantage.

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