This 88-page manual provides:
- Step-by-step information for using a counseling and testing model for youth in general or specialized clinical settings
- Step-by-step information for using the traditional voluntary counseling and testing model with youth
- Resources to help meet the broader sexual needs of youth, including information on contraceptive options and sexually transmitted infections
- Information on how to counsel youth and use youth-friendly service approaches
- Tips and role-plays to use with young people on abstinence, being faithful, and using condoms
- Guides for creating a referral network
Download the
full guide (PDF, 496 KB) or sections of the manual available individually below. There is also a
Training Guide designed specifically to train providers on how to use this manual.
Following the introduction to the overall manual, Chapter 1 includes factors that put youth at risk, skills needed for counselors of youth (such as respecting the client's life circumstances), and ways to make services friendly to youth. Unlike many adults, youth may be more interested in counseling and receiving information than in being tested.
These chapters provide the technical information providers need to meet the overall sexual health needs of youth. The HIV counseling and testing chapter includes step-by-step information on two models: the traditional VCT model and the model for testing routinely at general or specialized clinical settings. The chapters on sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy prevention provide easy reference charts for providers on key issues and contraceptive options. Tips and role-plays for clients on abstinence, being faithful, and using condoms are also included.
Youth-serving providers, who helped develop the content of this manual, indicated a section on life skills would help providers emphasize to youth the importance of developing critical thinking, being assertive, and developing good support networks. A suggested outline for a referral network is provided, along with valuable resources for further information.
