Culturally and linguistically adapting a transdiagnostic LGBTQ-affirming cognitive behavioral skills intervention for Vietnamese gay and bisexual men at risk for HIV: pre-adaptation qualitative interviews

In Việt Nam, men who have sex with men (MSM) have an estimated HIV prevalence of 13.3%. MSM in Việt Nam face significant stigma, which is a known factor increasing sexual risk behavior and HIV transmission. Interventions like Transdiagnostic LGBTQ-affirming Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) have been shown to reduce the impact of stigma, these interventions were developed in the context of the U.S. We aimed to identify cultural adaptations for LGBTQ-affirmative CBT skills in Vietnamese contexts. In-person interviews were conducted with MSM living in Ho Chi Minh City, Việt Nam (n = 17) in Vietnamese by native speakers, transcribed and translated to English. A team of four analysts used a Rapid Qualitative Analysis Method. Participants expressed a desire to learn emotional regulation skills, which aligns with existing LGBTQ-affirmative CBT skills content. They also suggested the inclusion of HIV prevention skills and most participants were in favor of group format. LGBTQ-affirmative CBT skills appear to be desired among MSM in Việt Nam to address the impact of identity-based stigma; however, content and format of the intervention should be adapted to meet their needs and maximize effectiveness. Future research should examine the impact of the adapted model on mental health and HIV risk.