WHO
The course is open to people who have knowledge in counselling and are interested in proving quality voluntary counselling and testing services to the public. The course is two weeks fulltime which include one week for supervision/ observed practice with clients. The course consists of twelve participants facilitated by four professional qualified trainers (2 counsellors and 2 lab technicians).

CONTENT & METHODOLOGY

The VCT course is both theoretical and practical. The theoretical aspects are based upon the updating of the psychological theories that form the foundation of counselling. Safeguarding and following the code of ethics of counselling practice explored to remind the trainees of the professional requirements.

Updates on personal experiences on HIV/AIDS information are explored and participants are helped to understand the link between HIV/AIDS and STDs, MTCT, TB, FP, ARVs, e.g. diagnostic, voluntarily, mandatory and routine testing. Discussion on the nature of VCT and its services are shared in small groups for participants to understand what is involved and to know about the VCT laboratory components. The practical aspects focus on self awareness where participants reflect upon their life experiences in ordered to gain a better understanding of their attitudes, values and beliefs towards HIV/AIDS and VCT and how these may impact on their work with HIV/AIDS and VCT clients. This is part of the course sessions where participants support each other and make contributions to the group's learning.

Practice of basic counselling skills is developed as participants share in groups how to prepare clients to take the HIV test, perform a simple rapid HIV test and correctly interpret the results, then carry out post-test and risk-reduction counselling. Observed practice is taken at a VCT centre by the trainees in the second week and records kept and produced at the end of the practice as evidence that the trainees have successfully completed the training and are competent to provide VCT services.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum KCSE C-
• At least a certificate in
• Interest to learn and understand counselling in relation to VCT
• Work experience in the area of HIV/aids
• Counselling work experience is an added advantage

Participants who successfully satisfy the course objectives are awarded the National AIDS/STI. Control Programme (NASCOP) VCT certificates.