If a client presents with multiple symptoms suggestive of depression, I aim to fully understand both the symptoms and their psychological and physiological impact on the client (and those around them). The more detailed my understanding of the individual’s situation and challenges, the better equipped I am to develop a strategy that fosters lasting change.

Eliminate or manage all of the symptoms and you eliminate or manage the depression.

As we explore the issues and symptoms affecting the client, we will gain a deeper understanding of who they are—their worldview, the meaning they assign to experiences, how they communicate both with others and internally with themselves, their belief systems, and their needs* (and whether those needs are being met in positive or negative ways). I’ll also want to understand how they navigate life and interact with others (or choose not to).

We will discuss their attributional style toward life events and establish metrics to guide the work we’re doing together.

*This work is heavily influenced by Strategic Intervention Coaching and Human Givens work

As we continue gathering information in the initial session(s), we will gradually build a clearer picture of external influences, such as relationships with friends, colleagues, support networks, and family dynamics, including any significant history.

The most effective way to help a client overcome depression is to gain their buy-in by working together to create a strategy specifically tailored to their unique situation and needs.

This personalized approach will be clearly outlined, with each step explained in detail, along with a discussion of the commitment expected from the client.

The approach will invariably include:

• The agreement and setting of goals and objections (refined from initial intake).
• Psychological / Therapeutic Interventions* and Coaching.
• Scheduling exercises.
• Scheduling progress and accountability checks.
  
• Planning a life beyond depression.

At this stage, all that remains is for the work to commence.

In reality, much of the psychological and therapeutic work would have already begun, with both subtle and noticeable changes and shifts already occurring during the initial information-gathering phases and as strategies were being formulated and agreed upon.

‘Doing the work’ also means the client beginning to complete any exercises assigned as part of the coaching and therapy.

Coaching is primarily about fostering self-efficacy—helping clients develop greater self-awareness, self-regulation, adopt coping skills, and build resilience—rather than simply having something done to them.

If the initial five stages have been thoroughly and effectively covered, with reflective practices integrated, a schedule for regular check-ins can be established to track progress and address any emerging issues. I’m open to allowing this to evolve into more informal communication (within defined boundaries) to help keep clients on track.