SUMMARY

REMAS is a group-level, clinic-based behavioral intervention designed to reduce HIV/STI risk among male substance abuse treatment center attendees. More specifically, the program aims to reduce the number of times that men engage in unprotected vaginal and anal sexual intercourse, or have sex while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Two trained male health counselors teach participants information, help participants develop risk-reduction skills, and motivate behavior change through group discussion, role-play, and condom use skill training. REMAS is comprised of five 90-minute sessions where participants learn about HIV risky-behaviors, HIV prevention planning, and methods for communicating about safer sex and discussing sex without drugs.

SUITABLE FOR USE IN

REMAS is suitable for use among men in treatment centers, clinics, or other community-based settings with a room that can accommodate all participants.

ORIGINAL INTERVENTION SAMPLE

Age Range
18+ years

Gender
100% male

Race/Ethnicity
28% African-American; 56% non-Hispanic White; 13% Hispanic; 2% Native American; 1% Asian

PROGRAM LENGTH

The program consists of five, 90-minute sessions delivered over a five-week period.

STAFFING REQUIREMENTS/TRAINING

REMAS is delivered by two experienced, trained male health counselors (co-therapists or facilitators) who should have experience as substance abuse treatment counselors, be comfortable talking about safer sex, be willing to follow a manual, have some prior group experience, and feel comfortable speaking in the "language" of the community.