BUILDING THE THERAPEUTIC ALLIANCE AS A GUIDING PRINCIPLE IN A CASE OF HIV DIAGNOSIS

Abstract

Introduction: Hospital Psychology focuses on understanding and treating the psychological aspects of illness, offering support to the patient and family while integrating into the multidisciplinary team. Given the high number of HIV cases reported in Brazil, and considering the infection is a chronic, manageable condition dependent on adherence to ART (Antiretroviral Therapy), this presents a crucial field for psychological intervention. Objective: To report how psychological intervention, based on empathic care and therapeutic bonding, facilitated diagnostic acceptance and treatment adherence in a recent HIV/AIDS case. Methodology: The study employed an exploratory case-study design and was conducted with a patient who received a recent, but late-stage, diagnosis of HIV/AIDS, requiring admission to a specialized infectology center in Goiânia, Goiás. Report: The 38-year-old patient, newly diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and in a cachectic state, initially presented with extremely low mood and denial of the diagnosis. Over five sessions, the psychologist used a therapeutic approach-including empathetic welcoming, active listening, and bond-building to mediate the clarification of doubts and address the patient's core beliefs. This posture of respecting silence led to diagnostic acceptance and readiness for treatment adherence, demonstrating the efficacy of the psychological intervention. Conclusion: The focus on active listening, empathetic welcoming, and therapeutic bond-building was fundamental to the positive outcome of the case. The patient transformed her perception from despair and death into acceptance and planning for ART adherence, demonstrating the relevance of the psychologist's role within the interdisciplinary team.