The RISE Program

RISE counselors serve as volunteer educators and test providers trained to deliver psychosocially competent HIV counseling in the setting of both negative and positive results. Student volunteers are trained in specific counseling techniques to engage priority populations with the aim of improving our understanding of the burden of disease on the individual and the community as a whole. RISE strives to normalize HIV disease through education and community engagement, to challenge social stigmas surrounding affected populations, and to increase health within our community.

Our program builds capacity in sexual health, harm reduction and HIV counseling in the Downstate community. Each year we train over 30 new counselors drawn from students from all the schools at Downstate, many of whom take on leadership roles. We strive to incorporate lessons learned in counseling encounters to grow into sensitive, aware and empathetic providers and allied health professionals. We also seek to take the skills we build and pass them on to others within Downstate Medical Center.

Our program builds capacity in sexual health, harm reduction and HIV/HepC counseling in the Downstate community. Each year we train over 30 new counselors drawn from students from all the schools at Downstate, many of whom take on leadership roles. We strive to incorporate lessons learned in counseling encounters to grow into sensitive, aware and empathetic providers and allied health professionals. We also seek to take the skills we build and pass them on to others within DMC.

Downstate Health & Education Alternatives for Teens (HEAT) Clinic

Learn more about the HEAT program here!