Brief Intervention
A targeted, short-term mental health support program offering young people structured, evidence-informed sessions that build confidence, resilience, and ongoing wellbeing.
What is Brief Intervention?
Brief Intervention (BI) is a structured, short-term therapeutic approach designed to provide timely, evidence-informed support to young people aged 12–25 who are experiencing mild to moderate mental health challenges.
It is grounded in early intervention, youth-centred care, and psychological flexibility, drawing on modalities such as cognitive-behavioural strategies, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused techniques.
The focus is on addressing current concerns while building emotional resilience, improving coping skills, and supporting ongoing wellbeing.
Why choose Brief Intervention?
BI is designed to deliver focused, practical support that helps young people build skills that last.
Key benefits include:
- Early access to evidence-informed care
- Support for autonomy, self-management, and resilience
- Development of psychological skills for managing current and future stressors
- Reduced wait times for longer-term services when appropriate
- Improved engagement with broader mental health pathways
BI is best suited for young people who:
- Are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms (e.g., anxiety, low mood, stress, adjustment difficulties)
- Are not presenting with acute or severe psychiatric symptoms
- Have a specific issue or therapeutic goal
- Want support developing practical skills and strategies
- Are motivated to engage in therapy and complete tasks between sessions
- Can attend regular appointments
Note: Clients presenting with high-risk behaviours, complex diagnostic needs, or requiring longer-term care will be supported to access more appropriate internal services at BaMH.
Treatment period
7 weeks
What to expect: Session Structure
Comprehensive Assessment
All individuals expressing interest in BI begin with a thorough assessment to determine suitability. Where BI isn’t appropriate, alternative recommendations or referrals are provided.
Session 1
- Psychoeducation
- Goal setting
- Safety check-in
This session builds a shared understanding of the young person’s goals and provides a foundation for the work that will take place across the following sessions.
Sessions 2–5
Focused therapeutic interventions may include:
- Behavioural activation (activity scheduling, values mapping)
- Cognitive strategies (thought-challenging, cognitive reframing)
- Emotion regulation (distress tolerance, mindfulness)
- Sleep and lifestyle fundamentals
- Social skills training (assertiveness, boundary setting)
Session 6
- Review of progress
- Relapse-prevention planning
- Service closure or referral (if required)
This session provides space to reflect on what has been achieved and discuss practical strategies to maintain wellbeing moving forward.