voluntary counseling and testing voluntary counseling and testing voluntary counselling and testing (vct) for hiv usually involves two counseling sessions: one prior to taking the test known as "pre-test counseling" and one following the hiv test when the results are given, often referred to as "post-test counseling". counseling focuses on the infection (hiv), the disease (aids), the test, and positive behavior change. vct has become popular in many parts of africa as a way for a person to learn their hiv status. vct centers and counselors often use rapid hiv tests that require a drop of blood or some cells from the inside of one's cheek; the tests are cheap, require minimal training, and provide accurate results in about 15 minutes.