Counselling students’ readiness for HIV prevention: training, attitudinal influences, and perceived competence

This qualitative study explores the readiness of master's-level counselling students, particularly those specialising in substance abuse, to engage effectively in HIV prevention work with people living with HIV (PLHIV). Given the complex intersection between substance abuse and HIV transmission, the study examines students' educational preparation, perceived competence, and attitudes towards HIV-related counselling. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews focusing on curriculum content, training experiences, practicum exposure, and students' self-assessed readiness. The findings reveal persistent HIV-related stigma, gaps in curriculum coverage, limited experiential learning opportunities, and variability in students' confidence and preparedness. Attitudinal factors, including fear, uncertainty, and empathy, emerged as central influences on readiness. The study offers recommendations for strengthening counselling curricula through targeted training, experiential learning, and attitudinal development to better prepare future counsellors for comprehensive HIV prevention practice.