CoP1 Mental Health Professionals in HIV care: Cultural Considerations in Mental Health and HIV Care for Haitian Communities

Presented by: 

Georgia Thomas-Diaz, Counselor, LMHC, LADC1, CTS
Director, Respite Behavioral Health
Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program

Description: This presentation explores the role of cultural humility and trauma-informed mental health care in improving engagement and treatment outcomes for people living with HIV. Drawing from clinical experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness and co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, participants will learn practical strategies for building trust, reducing stigma, and collaborating across multidisciplinary systems of care.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand HIV and mental health disparities in Haitian communities
• Explore cultural humility in clinical practice
• Discuss Vodou beliefs and misconceptions
• Improve engagement and ART adherence
• Review long-acting injectable ART vs oral ART