[DanBC]

Sadly it's well known that non-specific counseling has a neutral or negative effect. Obviously studies about this are difficult.

Someone willing to listen is important to help a person with mental health problems get support. That support doesn't have to be from a professional. It could be self guided from a good quality book or website. Or it could involve professionals, from telephone provided CBT through intensive long term psychological therapies provided by speciList providers.