The Impact of the Common Elements Treatment Approach on HIV Treatment Outcomes Among Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence in South Africa: A Randomized Trial

Publish Year
2026
Publisher
Journal of the International AIDS Society
Description

This study evaluates the impact of the Common Elements Treatment Approach, a cognitive behavioral therapy intervention, on treatment outcomes for women living with HIV who have experienced intimate partner violence (IPV). While it did not significantly improve HIV treatment retention or viral suppression, participants showed modest overall gains and clear improvements in depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. The article highlights the strong links between IPV, mental health, and HIV outcomes, and suggests that integrating mental health support into HIV care can be beneficial. The study also indicates that broader structural and health system barriers may limit improvements in HIV treatment outcomes for women experiencing IPV.