The Expert Centre on HIV/AIDS and Mental Health was established in 2005 as part of a project implemented by the Global Initiative on Psychiatry. The goal of the centre is to improve the quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS in Georgia, focusing on interaction of HIV/AIDS and mental health problems.

The principal goals of the Center include:

1. To expand and strengthen the capacity of community-based entities to provide culturally appropriate/competent mental health services targeted to people living with HIV/AIDS and their environment;
2. To enhance collaboration between HIV and mental health workers at all levels;
3. To improve ability of mental health providers to make referrals to both mental health and HIV/AIDS services, and to substance abuse treatment when necessary and,
4. To develop culturally appropriate HIV/AIDS education and counseling methodologies.

The Center organizes a wide-range of activities:

1. Identify the needs and constraints of the target group(s);

1. Create and maintain the collaborative networks;

1. Provide training sessions to mental health care professionals, primary health care practitioners and other service providers;

1. Carry out follow-up training and continuing technical assistance of service providers to provide them with the information, awareness, sensitivity, and strategies;

1. Provide information, counseling and referral services.

The center’s multidisciplinary team comprises people with a range of professional experiences and skills, including psychologists, social workers, researchers and medical doctors with specialist knowledge in HIV/AIDS and mental health.