I work for Colorado Health Network. I am attempting to design, as my capstone project for my MSW, a training manual for a peer-mentorship program. The manual will cover five (5) modules.
Peer Mentor Training Program Outline: HIV/AIDS Support
Target Audience: Individuals living long-term with HIV/AIDS who are interested in becoming peer mentors for newly diagnosed individuals or those struggling with accepting their diagnosis.
Program Goals:
- Equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively mentor and support individuals newly diagnosed with HIV/AIDS or struggling with their diagnosis.
- Foster a supportive community among mentors and mentees through monthly group meetings.
- Promote positive health outcomes and well-being for both mentors and mentees.
Module Breakdown:
Module 1: Introduction & Program Overview (2 hours)
- Welcome and Introductions:
- Build rapport and create a safe space for open communication.
- Review program goals, expectations, and confidentiality guidelines.
- HIV/AIDS Basics:
- Update participants on current HIV/AIDS knowledge, including transmission, treatment options, and available resources.
- Address common misconceptions and stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.
- Role of the Peer Mentor:
- Discuss the distinct role of a peer mentor compared to healthcare professionals or therapists.
- Emphasize that mentors are not representatives or employees of Colorado Health Network.
- Introduce the concept of boundaries and ethical considerations in mentoring relationships.
- Overview of Monthly Group Meetings:
- Explain the purpose and structure of separate monthly meetings for mentors and mentees.
- Introduce Bill Halstead as the facilitator and peer training instructor.
Module 2: Supporting Mentees through Challenge (2 hours)
- Understanding Mentee Experiences:
- Explore the potential challenges and emotions faced by newly diagnosed individuals and those struggling with acceptance.
- Discuss the impact of stigma, disclosure concerns, and navigating healthcare systems.
- Highlight the importance of empathy, active listening, and non-judgmental support.
- Suicide Awareness and Prevention:
- Train mentors to recognize signs and symptoms of suicidal ideation.
- Provide resources and strategies for responding to and supporting mentees at risk.
- Emphasize the importance of referring mentees experiencing suicidal thoughts to mental health professionals.
- Mental Health Considerations:
- Discuss the potential for mentors or mentees to experience mental health challenges.
- Provide information on Colorado Health Network’s Behavior Health team and the referral process.
- Encourage open communication and self-care practices for both mentors and mentees.
Module 3: Sharing Your Story – The Power of Lived Experience (2 hours)
- The Value of Shared Experience:
- Explore how mentors’ own experiences with HIV/AIDS can be a powerful tool for connecting with and supporting mentees.
- Encourage self-reflection on personal strengths, challenges, and coping mechanisms.
- Discuss the importance of maintaining appropriate boundaries and avoiding over-identification with mentees’ stories.
- Storytelling Techniques:
- Provide tools and guidance for effectively sharing personal experiences in a supportive and empowering way.
- Practice sharing stories in a safe and respectful environment.
- Building Trust and Rapport:
- Explore strategies for building trust and rapport with mentees based on authenticity, empathy, and shared experiences.
- Discuss active listening skills and techniques for fostering open communication.
Module 4: Motivational Interviewing for Positive Change (2 hours)
- Introduction to Motivational Interviewing (MI):
- Explain the core principles and philosophy of MI as a collaborative approach to supporting behavior change.
- Differentiate MI from traditional advice-giving or persuasion techniques.
- MI Skills and Techniques:
- Practice open-ended questioning, reflective listening, and affirmation to elicit mentees’ own motivations and goals.
- Explore strategies for rolling with resistance, supporting self-efficacy, and promoting autonomy.
- Adapting MI to HIV/AIDS Context:
- Discuss specific challenges and considerations when using MI with individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
- Practice applying MI skills to common scenarios encountered by mentors and mentees.
Module 5: Program Completion and Next Steps (2 hours)
- Program Review and Feedback:
- Provide an opportunity for participants to share their experiences and feedback on the training program.
- Address any questions or concerns.
- Maintaining Effective Mentoring Relationships:
- Discuss strategies for sustaining positive mentoring relationships and navigating potential challenges.
- Highlight the importance of ongoing communication, setting boundaries, and seeking support when needed.
- Next Steps and Resources:
- Provide information on ongoing support and resources available to mentors and mentees.
- Celebrate participants’ completion of the training program and their commitment to mentoring.
Additional Notes:
- This outline is a suggestion and can be adapted to fit the specific needs and context of your program.
- Consider incorporating interactive activities, role-playing exercises, and group