Key elements and practical logic of non-directive counselling intervention in perinatal women's depression: based on grounded theory analysis

Perinatal female depression seriously endangers the health of mothers and infants, and effective intervention is the key to prevention and treatment. As a psychological intervention method that focuses on client-led treatment and emphasises emotional support, the role of non-directive counselling in depression intervention in perinatal women deserves in-depth discussion. To explore the application methods and mechanisms of non-directive counselling intervention in alleviating depression in perinatal women, and to construct its key elements and practical logic models. The key elements and logical models of non-directive counselling intervention are refined and constructed using the grounded theoretical research method to carry out open coding, axial coding and selective coding of data. Selective coding-based results show that building a sense of security, attachment, and self-worth is the foundation of the intervention and helps promote trust and engagement. The counselling process promotes emotional expression and regulation by enhancing communication skills and creating a free and supportive emotional space. Through emotional support and structured companionship, women gradually shift from external dependence to self-regulation, forming autonomy and internal control. Continuous feedback mechanisms can further enhance self-awareness and regulation efficacy, ensuring that interventions are tailored to individual needs. This study proposes the key elements and practical logic model of non-directive counselling intervention for perinatal female depression, which provides clear operational guidelines for relevant professionals. These findings may facilitate the scientific and effective application of non-directive counselling strategies, thereby improving the specificity and effectiveness of interventions.