"Are you living with HIV and live in Surrey? Do you feel you need to talk?
"A new free phone and video counselling service has opened and it’s open to Surrey residents who are living with HIV.
"Some issues that you might be experiencing can be around taking medication, feelings of blame, guilt and shame, issues around sex and relationships, and whether or not to disclose to others.
"Your counsellor will be someone who is experienced with HIV related issues, and will provide a safe and confidential space where you won’t be judged or told what to do.
"Many people who go into counselling also find it helpful to talk to someone who isn’t connected to anyone else you know, which is especially important if you don’t want anyone you know to find out.
"Many have benefitted from phone and video counselling, which can be just as effective as face-to-face. There is also the added convenience of not needing to travel anywhere.
"After an initial assessment to see if counselling is the right thing for you now, you’d be offered 6 or 12 sessions of counselling, once per week for 50 minutes."
Mark Kenichi-Davies, Mental Health and Wellbeing Counsellor.
You can refer yourself into the service, or be referred by someone who works with you (like a GP or clinic nurse).
Email counselling@metrocharity.org.uk or call our mental health team on 020 8305 5009.
For further information about what services we currently provide, you can visit our HIV hub.