A multilevel approach for workplace counselling in industrial psychology: A decade of progress

Abstract

Orientation: Managing mental health in the workplace has gained considerable attention in the field of industrial and organisational psychology, particularly as an essential element to managing employee well-being in South Africa.
Research purpose: This study reviewed a decade of progress made in training industrial psychologists as workplace counsellors, as well as in identifying the best practices and future directions for addressing workplace mental health needs.
Motivation for the study: Despite its growing recognition, significant gaps remain in training practitioners to ensure their preparedness in managing mental health in the workplace.
Research approach/design and method: An integrative review was conducted on the author’s workplace counselling project, spanning from 2014 to 2025. A total of N = 23 studies met the inclusion criteria. Study characteristics and key findings were grouped into three domains – counselling models, trauma management frameworks and counsellor training methods.
Main findings: Key findings showed progress in addressing training inadequacies, resulting in a revised edition of the framework for inspiring growth 2.0, which integrates mental health initiatives at individual, group and organisational intervention levels.
Practical/managerial implications: A comprehensive workplace counselling training initiative incorporating multilevel approaches might enhance industrial psychologists’ competency and readiness in addressing workplace mental health challenges.
Contribution/value-add: This review provides insight into developments in workplace counselling, including a review of past research. These practices guide future training of industrial psychologists in counselling practices.