Children of a parent with HIV ????? Help

[billboston]

Does anyone know an adolescent psychiatrist who specializes (or well versed) in dealing with the emotional issues of kids who have a parent with HIV? 

[aztecan]

I've not heard of anyone with those types of credentials.

One idea is to contact the local ASO. The people there may be able to steer you in the right direction.

HUGS,

Mark

[Lis]

Hey... if you are HIV pos then you hold the key to dealing with it... if you have not come to terms with your status, then i would suggest that you seek help... its not up to our kids ... its up to us... once we accept our selves.. then our kids have a better chance..

(I'm a mom of 2 ... 20, and 11 ) i really try not to talk out my ass... Ive BEEN there

[dad1216]

My boys are my strength. 
They are just as informed as I am about this disease.  They deal on a day to day basis all the ups and downs associated with hiv. 
I have been a single parent and raised the boys alone, they are now 19 and 22, still at home. 
I have over the years watch them educate their friends, (loose a few also) about hiv. 
I know how lucky I am, but don't underestimate your kids, they can be your greatest source of anything you need....

[Ann]

Hi Bill,

I would suggest you contact your local ASO and see what they have to say. They might even have an in-house counselor your son could see.

If that line of enquiry comes up empty, I would suggest finding a local family counselor. Going by one of your other posts, I think many of the issues you are dealing with are common to many other families going through a nasty divorce.

I'm glad you're facing this problem head on and seeking help with it, rather than just hoping it goes away. Kids today have so much to deal with as it is and having parents going through a nasty divorce where hiv is a main issue has got to be even tougher.

In the meantime, let your son know you care and that you are willing to listen to him - and I do mean LISTEN to him. As a parent of a teenager myself, I know how difficult it can be to sit there and let them do all the talking, but it gets easier with practice. Try to not jump in with advice - just encourage him to tell you what he thinks and how he feels.

Good luck. Let us know how you get on - and feel free to PM me if you want to discuss talking with teenagers in more depth.

Ann

[Christine]

Hi Bill,
Another option might be a counselor or psychiatrist that deals with chronic illnesses. The therapist I see works with people who deal with chronic illnesses; hiv, cancer, Lou Gehrig's...

The disease may be different, but many of the issues are the same.

Christine

[lydgate]

RUKind, you really seem to go out of your way, and not just in this post, to show that your handle/name is ironic.