Randomized Controlled Trial of Counseling Approach for Long-Term Welfare Recipients in Switzerland

PurposeThis study examines the impact of “Change in Direction,” a counseling approach for long-term social assistance recipients in Switzerland.MethodThe results of the study are based on a randomized controlled trial ( n intervention group = 31/32, n comparison group = 50/48). Outcome measures were obtained from a two-wave survey and administrative data.ResultsThe intervention increased clients’ mastery (= experience of competence, β = .46, p = .038) and vitality (= one aspect of well-being, β = .61, p = .008), reducing the gap with the general Swiss working age population by 35% and 54%, respectively. However, the intervention did not increase clients’ general life satisfaction or earnings, nor did it reduce health expenditures or cash transfer receipt.DiscussionFindings show that goal-oriented counseling can improve feelings of competence and well-being among long-term welfare recipients but that it cannot improve labor market outcomes and financial self-sufficiency.