Facing the challenges of being HIV-positive can require extensive support, and the Massachusetts Alliance of Portuguese Speakers (MAPS) is ready to offer it for community members. Besides prevention education provided by MAPS staff, and testing and counseling through a subcontracted partner, Health Innovations, the agency also offers supportive behavioral health services for those who have been infected.
At MAPS’ Cambridge office, located at 1046 Cambridge Street, Júnior Catão, HIV/Mental Health Case Manager, listens to clients pouring their hearts out.
Junior Catao
“Sometimes they come to us very emotionally weakened. We try to show them that their lives are not ending, and that it is important to keep a positive mindset as well as to have a new perspective of life,” says Catão.
Studies have shown these attitudes can strengthen the immune system, affecting the body self-defense cells attacked by the HIV. But Catão also help them make life around them better, by helping them to apply for social services for which they might be eligible, like affordable housing, Fuel Assistance and others. He also links them to specialized counseling services if appropriate.
All the information shared between the clients and MAPS’ staff is highly confidential. The project, known as “ACCESS,” is funded by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) through a partnership with Cambridge Health Alliance, where some of the therapists are affiliated. For more information, please call (617) 864-7600 or (617) 820-7207, or email Junior Catão at jcatao@maps-inc.org
