The Simple Interventions Trial is testing the effectiveness of simple interventions in emerging or full-threshold depressive and anxiety disorders in young people (aged 15-25). Through the trial, young people can access six weeks of individual sessions with a psychologist at Western Melbourne headspace, Sunshine. For more information: http://rc.oyh.org.au/ResearchAreas/centreofexcellence/simpleinterventionstrial
- All sessions are provided free-of-charge, they are not offered under Medicare rebates. Clients do not need to be eligible for Medicare to participate
- There is no waiting list
- All sessions are delivered by a clinical psychologist experienced in working with young people
- All clients receive an active intervention
- All clients undergo a thorough psychosocial assessment to determine if the interventions offered through the trial are appropriate to their needs
- Clients are closely monitored during the trial and are withdrawn if symptom severity or risk increases
- Clients that require further treatment on completion of the trial are offered the option of attending a private practitioner at headspace Western Melbourne
- Clients who withdraw or drop out are offered treatment as usual through headspace Western Melbourne
- Exclusion criteria are minimal ¬ clients are only excluded if they have had prior treatment (over 1 month formal psychotherapy, over 1 month of medication targeting mood and anxiety symptoms in the past or are currently receiving medication), are already exercising over recommended guidelines, have psychotic or manic symptoms, have an Intellectual Disability or active suicidal intent.
As all sessions are free and clients do not need to be eligible for Medicare to participate, it may be a particularly useful referral pathway for international students.
