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Counsellors addressing psychosocial issues use the assessment results to engage the worker and develop a collaborative counselling plan. They explain biopsychosocial interactions to help build motivation for self-management.

The counselling addresses a range of common psychosocial barriers:

•Coping abilities: Counsellors help workers gain insight into their coping mechanisms and teach techniques like problem-solving, stress management, mindfulness and cognitive behavioural therapy to develop more effective strategies.

•Fear of re-injury: Cognitive-behavioural techniques and activity pacing are used to reduce avoidance behaviours and promote active engagement in rehabilitation.

•Pain understanding: Explaining pain helps workers develop a more balanced understanding and challenge catastrophic thoughts.

•Stress and anxiety: Strategies like relaxation, mindfulness and problem-solving are provided to manage stress related to injury and the compensation system.

•Depression: Supportive counselling aims to enhance mood and motivation for recovery.

•Work-related beliefs: Counsellors address self-efficacy, perceptions of workplace support and return to work readiness.

•Workplace issues: Workers are assisted to communicate effectively about their needs, advocate for accommodations and manage relationships with colleagues and supervisors.

•Social support: Counselling aims to enhance support networks and communication skills.

Throughout the process, counsellors provide encouragement and validation to build the worker's confidence in their ability to cope with challenges and return to work successfully. The overall goal is to empower workers with the skills and mindset needed for recovery and sustainable return to work.

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