Table 2 Overview of final 3-session counselling intervention
| Session goals | Approach | In-session techniques | In-session reference guide |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Session 1 Developing the counselling relationship, educating and identifying unique symptoms, engaging in activity to improve mood | Behavioural activation “get moving” |
Psychoeducation Basic counselling skills Engagement Normalise, validate Engaging coping skill |
Basic assessment Pictorial rating scale Common symptoms List of symptom words Safety 3 standard questions Steps to enhance safety Psychoeducation Depression and worry pit illustration Activity scheduling options Context relevant examples |
|
Session 2 Identifying problems causing distress and finding ways to manage or cope with these problems |
Problem-solving (introduction) Identify the problem Think of solutions Positives and negatives Select the best solution Create an action plan Review (next visit) |
Basic counselling skills Problem-solving steps Encourage action steps Explore barriers Engaging coping skill |
Basic assessment Pictorial rating scale Safety 3 standard questions Steps to enhance safety Problem-solving steps Question guide Resource guide (referrals) Local resources |
|
Session 3 Reviewing the action plan and practicing problem-solving skills | Problem-solving (review) |
Basic counselling skills Problem-solving steps (review) Encourage action steps Promote daily coping skills and remind of benefits |
Basic assessment Pictorial rating scale Safety: 3 standard questions Steps to enhance safety Problem-solving steps Question guide Resource guide (referrals)Local resources |
| Enhancing coping skills (optional) |
Mindfulness and belly breathing Helpful thinking Social support Conflict management | ||