Your peer doubts your expertise in peer support. How can you regain their trust?

1 Acknowledge Concerns

To regain trust in your peer support capabilities, start by acknowledging your peer's concerns. Listen carefully without becoming defensive, and validate their feelings by showing understanding. This step is crucial because it demonstrates respect for their perspective and sets the stage for open dialogue. By being receptive to feedback, you create an environment where your peer feels heard, which is the first step towards rebuilding the relationship.

2 Reflect Honestly

Once you've listened to your peer's doubts, take time to reflect honestly on your peer support skills. Consider any gaps in your knowledge or areas where you might have fallen short. Self-awareness is key in recognizing what aspects of your practice need improvement. By identifying these areas, you can create a plan to enhance your skills and address your peer's concerns, showing that you are committed to growth and excellence in peer support.

3 Enhance Skills

After identifying areas for improvement, actively work on enhancing your peer support skills. This might involve seeking additional training, reading up on best practices, or even getting mentorship from a more experienced peer supporter. Taking concrete steps to better yourself not only improves your expertise but also signals to your peer that you take their concerns seriously and are dedicated to providing the best support possible.

4 Open Communication

Maintaining open communication is essential to regaining trust. Keep your peer informed about the steps you're taking to improve your skills and ask for ongoing feedback. This transparency shows that you value their opinion and are working collaboratively towards a solution. Regular check-ins can also help ensure that your efforts align with their expectations and that any new concerns are addressed promptly.

5 Demonstrate Commitment

To truly regain trust, you must demonstrate your commitment to peer support over time. Consistency in applying your enhanced skills and knowledge will show that your efforts are sincere. Engage with your peer regularly, offering support and showing through your actions that you are dependable and skilled. Over time, your peer will likely notice the positive changes and begin to trust in your expertise once more.

6 Rebuild Together

Finally, work on rebuilding the peer support relationship together with your peer. This involves a partnership where both parties contribute to the healing process. Encourage your peer to share their ongoing thoughts and needs, and use this input to continuously refine your approach. As trust is rebuilt, the peer support relationship can become even stronger, benefiting from the challenges overcome and the shared commitment to progress.