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Mental Health Counseling
The Mental Health Project provides individual and family counseling
to persons with HIV or AIDS and their families. Individuals who are
diagnosed with HIV or AIDS often experience a range of emotions including
denial, resentment and anger. They also have a fear that they will
be rejected by their family and friends due to the stigma associated
with HIV/AIDS. The Mental Health Project provides counseling sessions
that address major concerns including disclosure to partners, family
and employer; what to expect as a result of a positive diagnosis;
preparing for, and dealing with the progression of the disease; and
how/when to explain the ramifications of AIDS to their children.
Support groups are also available for family and friends so that
they may share experiences and help each other cope with the disease
through moral support and camaraderie.
Housing Services
Through funding provided by the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, two
components of housing services are offered for individuals who are
HIV-positive. The Housing Advocacy Project provides housing related
assessment, referrals and tenancy support services for HIV positive
clients who have been referred by their case manager. The program
also identifies housing opportunities and develops networks with
landlords and developers. This program assists clients on a short-term
basis to obtain and maintain safe affordable housing and other services
in collaboration with their case managers. The Housing Case Management
Project offers more intensive housing assistance services for persons
living with HIV. To be eligible, individuals must also be homeless
and have the ability to have utilities ordered in their name. This
is a transitional program whereby the client is placed in subsidized
housing for up to 18 months. During this time, the client is assisted
by their case manager to transition to permanent housing. The client
may also receive assistance in developing social and independent
living skills, learning how to budget, obtaining employment, and
connecting to other services offered by the agency. Psychological
counseling is also available with a licensed clinical psychologist.
The program will operate a maximum of 21 apartment units.
Case Management Programs
The Case Management program provides a holistic approach to the well
being of HIV-positive individuals throughout the City of Chicago
and is funded by the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Clients are able
to receive referral services to primary care facilities, substance
abuse treatment centers, alternative therapies, dental services,
mental health services, emergency assistance and support services.
There are no restrictions as to residential area, location, age limitations
or other criteria for the client. The only criteria used to receive
assistance from this program is that the client test positive for
HIV.
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