Keith Matthews
November 5, 2025 2025-12-07 23:10
Keith Matthews
Auburn University College of Nursing
Academic Mentor: Dr. Linda Gibson-Young
Site Mentor: Phillip Kierce, LMSW
Site: Unity Wellness Center
Academic Mentor: Dr. Linda Gibson-Young
Site Mentor: Phillip Kierce, LMSW
Site: Unity Wellness Center
Keith worked to improve the mental health and wellbeing of people living with HIV (PLWH) in rural Alabama. He screened fifty clients for depression and anxiety as well as conducted viral load checks at three follow-up appointments. Multiple treatment options were provided to clients who were experiencing depression and anxiety including medication, mental health counseling referrals, and mindfulness interventions. Keith worked with social workers at Unity Wellness Center to help with referrals for counseling and to address social determinants of health.Â
As a result of the project:
- Client viral load suppression improved
- Client’s received mental health education
- Client mental health scores improved
- Mandatory mental health screenings will be implemented at outpatient appointments going forward