This study will pilot test the telehealth intervention EMPOWER (Enhancing and Motivating PrEP Options among Women through Empowerment and Resilience) by adapting an evidence-informed intervention, POWER (Progressing Our Well-Being, Emotions, and Relationships) based on mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy, to improve PrEP uptake and persistence by Black women in the South.
Conduct a waitlist-controlled, randomized pilot trial of the 6-session group intervention using a crossover design with 80 Black women. Clinical outcomes will be the PrEP uptake and PrEP persistence measured by TDF via the dried blood spot at baseline, 3- and 6-months post-intervention. We will also assess the intervention's feasibility, acceptability, and usability. The outcomes will be compared with the usual standard of care (opt-out PrEP) at the intervention site.
