Purpose: This study examined feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of a pilot randomized controlled trial (BRIDGES) designed to improve HIV care outcomes among syndemic-affected women living with HIV (WLHA). Method: We enrolled and randomized adult WLHA who were out-of-care or at risk of falling out-of-care and experienced any syndemic condition(s) into BRIDGES ( n = 11) or standard of care ( n = 13). BRIDGES employed peer navigation one-on-one sessions and six weekly 2-h video psychoeducation group sessions. Feasibility and acceptability were assessed through participant quantitative and semistructured interviews. Intention-to-treat analyses were conducted to evaluate the preliminary effects of BRIDGES. Results: BRIDGES was highly feasible and acceptable. Intervention participants demonstrated improved self-reported adherence to antiretroviral therapy at 3 months, and better engagement and retention in care and viral suppression at 12 months compared to control participants. Discussion: BRIDGES is a promising program to provide syndemic-affected WLHA with the tools needed to mitigate social and structural barriers to HIV care.

Given the potential for retraumatization among survivors of sexual violence engaged in research, we aimed to provide pertinent knowledge and exemplification of the integration of trauma-informed practice to research with survivors. Grounded in trauma-informed care, we discuss the need for trauma-informed research, drawing upon experiences and data from a longitudinal case-control study on sexual violence. Through trauma-informed research settings, we can improve research experiences for survivors of sexual violence, as demonstrated by positive experiences of participants in The THRIVE Study. By meeting the needs of survivors, researchers can increase participation while maximizing the research quality and advancement of research.