Approach to Support

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Active, Non-directive Listening

- Listening more than we speak.

- Avoid giving advice unless explicitly asked.

- Reflecting and validating feelings rather than trying to “fix” things.

Relational, Not Clinical

- Basing the connection on lived experience, not diagnosis or treatment.

Boundaries & Peer Ethics

- Being clear about the role of a peer supporter, we are not therapists.

- Knowing when to refer someone to additional resources.

Trauma-Informed Practices

- Assuming that trauma may be present.

- Avoid using triggering language or behaviour.

- Allowing people to set the pace of their sharing.

Collaborative Problem-Solving

- Helping explore options without telling people what to do.

- Respecting that people are experts in their own lives.

Consistency and Reliability

- Ensuring that appointments are kept/ Showing up when we say we will.

- Being dependable, trust is built through consistency.

Cultural Humility

- Always be learning; and not assuming that we know someone’s experience.

- Asking and not assuming. Being open to feedback.