Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services

The overall goal of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services at Volunteers of America South Central Louisiana is to provide access to high quality, effective mental health care and treatment to all eligible Person’s Living With HIV/AIDS, regardless of their current and/or past medical history and ability to pay.

Heterosexual Men's Support Group

This group is for HIV positive heterosexual men. This group fosters a "brotherhood" mentality for its members and empowerment of the heterosexual HIV+ male. The group will meet every 1st, 3rd, and 5th Tuesday of the month from 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm. To ensure the "safe space" environment, prospective members must be evaluated by mental health and substance abuse counselor Renarda Ford, LMSW. Please contact Renarda Ford at 225-925-2372.

Transgender Support Group

This group does not require its members to be HIV+; however, positive individuals are encouraged to attend. Members do not have to disclose their statuses with the group, but talks on the subject are welcomed. Members can be MTF (Male to Female) or FTM (Female to Male). This group will meet every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month. Members must be evaluated by mental health and substance abuse counselor Renarda Ford, LMSW. Please contact Renarda Ford at 225-925-2372.

Substance Abuse Treatment Group

This group is for individuals eligible for Ryan White services. Group is held every Wednesday from 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm.  Please contact the facilitator, Lindsay Allen, M.S., CRC, CI, at 225-925-2372,or have your case manager complete a referral to schedule an initial screening before attending.