Assuming things underneath (lath, etc.) are sound, drywalling over the
top of things would work. If you are dealing with outlets, fixtures,
etc., there are extension boxes to deal with this. Door and window trim
might pose a problem. You can use the thinest drywall you can find,
obviously. I had a damaged ceiling ("veneer" plaster) in a bathroom.
Just dry walled over the top of it, and put in a better vent system, as
moisture had caused the problem.