How can open-ended questions aid in building trust during session interactions?

Open-ended questions are pivotal in building trust during session interactions because they empower the peer to share their narrative in a manner that feels organic and unrestricted. When a peer is invited to express themselves freely, it creates an environment of safety and acceptance, allowing them to explore their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or interruption. This open dialogue fosters deeper connections, as the peer feels heard and understood, which is essential in a supportive relationship.

Moreover, open-ended questions encourage peers to elaborate on their experiences, facilitating a richer understanding of their perspectives. This not only enhances the peer’s sense of ownership in the conversation but also encourages active participation, leading to more meaningful interactions. Establishing this foundation of trust is crucial in a peer support setting, as it cultivates a sense of collaboration in the healing process.

The other options fail to promote trust in the same way; closed and directive questioning, for instance, can inhibit communication and make a peer feel less comfortable. Focusing solely on past experiences may limit the exploration of current feelings and future possibilities, while strict time limits might pressure peers and discourage them from fully expressing themselves.