STI/HIV/AIDS Counselling
OR
Prepared by Docthub Courses Team ∣
Last updated on 23 Oct 2026
Overview
The STI/HIV/AIDS Counselling program under the specialty of Health Counselling is designed to train professionals in providing psychological support and guidance to individuals affected by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and AIDS. The duration of the course typically ranges from 6 months to 1 year, depending on the institute offering the program. The curriculum includes subjects like understanding STIs and HIV/AIDS, modes of transmission, prevention strategies, treatment options, psychological impacts of living with HIV/AIDS, and effective counseling techniques.
Table of Content
What is a STI/HIV/AIDS Counselling?
STI/HIV/AIDS Counselling is a professional practice that focuses on helping clients understand their condition, manage emotional distress, make informed decisions about treatment, and reduce the risk of transmission. It includes client education, behavior modification techniques, disclosure support, family therapy, and support groups. This program is especially critical for promoting adherence to ART (antiretroviral therapy) and enabling psychosocial adjustment for individuals and families.
Highlights:
Particulars | STI/HIV/AIDS Counselling |
Course Type | Certificate / Diploma Program |
Duration | 6 months – 1 year |
Eligibility | Graduates in Psychology, Social Work, Nursing, or Medicine |
Admission Process | Application + Screening / Interview |
Fees | ₹8,000 – ₹35,000 depending on the institution |
Colleges in India | 1. Indian Institute of Public Health (IIPH), Delhi 2. Acharya Nagarjuna University Centre for Distance Education (ANUCDE), Guntur 3. S.S. Jain Subodh P.G. College, Jaipur |
Job Roles | HIV/AIDS Counsellor STI Outreach Worker Community Health Educator ART Centre Counsellor Public Health Programme Officer |
Eligibility:
To be eligible for the STI/HIV/AIDS Counselling program candidates must hold a graduate degree in any field related to health sciences, social sciences, psychology, or public health. Moreover, preference is given to those who have an experience in counseling, community service, or healthcare.
Duration:
The STI/HIV/AIDS Counselling course duration ranges from 6 months to 1 year, available in part-time, full-time, or online modes.
Fees:
STI/HIV/AIDS Counselling fees vary from ₹8,000 to ₹35,000 depending on the college, location, and course format (distance, hybrid, or in-person).
Who Should Do This Course?
The STI/HIV/AIDS Counselling course is ideal for:
- Health workers, nurses, and counselors dealing with STI/HIV clients
- Social workers involved in community education
- Psychology or public health graduates interested in working with vulnerable populations
- NGO professionals and outreach personnel
Why Study This Course?
Candidate can pursue this program to:
- Gain specialized skills to help reduce STI/HIV transmission
- Support the mental health and rights of affected individuals
- Build a meaningful career in public health and social advocacy
- Contribute to global goals for HIV/AIDS eradication and stigma reduction
Entrance Exam:
Most of institutes do not require an entrance exam. Selection is generally based on academic merit, interview, or professional background.
Admission Process:
To get into this STI/HIV/AIDS counselling program candidate need to:
- Submit an online or offline application form
- Provide academic and professional documents
- Appear for screening (if applicable)
- Confirm enrollment with fee payment
Syllabus:
The syllabus of STI/HIV/AIDS Counselling includes various Types of HIV counselling, STI counselling OSCE and many more. Detailed course is given in the table:
Year/Semester | Courses |
Semester 1 | Introduction to STIs and HIV/AIDS, Modes of Transmission, Prevention |
Semester 2 | Psychosocial Impact, Legal & Ethical Issues, Counseling Techniques |
Practical | Fieldwork, Client Interaction, Simulated STI counselling OSCE |
Top Colleges:
The list of top colleges for STI/HIV/AIDS Counselling program is mentioned below:
- Indian Institute of Public Health (IIPH), Delhi
- Acharya Nagarjuna University Centre for Distance Education (ANUCDE), Guntur
- S.S. Jain Subodh P.G. College, Jaipur
Scope:
STI/HIV/AIDS Counselling scope spans across hospitals, ART centers, NGOs, government health missions, and international development programs. There is also increasing demand in online STI/HIV/AIDS Counselling platforms and Telehealth settings.
Further Study Options:
- Master’s in Clinical or Counseling Psychology
- MPH (Master of Public Health)
- Diploma in HIV/AIDS and Family Life Education
- Certificate courses in Telehealth and Health Informatics
Career Opportunities after This Course:
- STI/HIV/AIDS Counsellor in hospitals or ART centers
- Psychosocial Support Officer in NGOs
- Field Health Educator for HIV/STI prevention campaigns
- Community Care Specialist in international health organizations
Salary:
Role | Average Salary (INR/Year) |
STI/HIV/AIDS Counsellor | ₹2.5 – ₹5 LPA |
Public Health Educator | ₹3 – ₹6 LPA |
NGO Health Programme Officer | ₹4 – ₹7 LPA |

Related Job Roles

FAQS
Why is counselling important for STI/HIV/AIDS?
Counselling for STI/HIV/AIDS is important because It helps individuals cope with diagnosis, reduce anxiety, make informed choices, and adhere to treatment.
Who should seek STI/HIV/AIDS counselling?
Anyone exposed to or living with an STI/HIV, as well as their partners and family members should seek STI/HIV/AIDS counselling.
Can counselling help prevent the spread of HIV and STIs?
Yes. Through education, risk assessment, behavior change techniques, and treatment adherence counselling help you to prevent the spread of HIV and STIs.
What types of support are provided in STI/HIV/AIDS counselling?
Emotional support, risk reduction guidance, treatment literacy, partner counseling, and disclosure support.
How can I prepare for an STI/HIV/AIDS counselling session?
Be open and honest. Counselors are trained to provide a confidential and judgment-free environment.
Related Course titles

Qualifications
MBBS
BSc Nursing
BSW (Bachelor of Social Work)
BA in Clinical Psychology