Attitudes likely to promote trust

There are a number of things you can do to encourage a young person to trust you in addition to following the general guidelines for effective counselling.

Try to understand the way young people feel; remember how you felt in early adolescence (10–14 years of age) and how your feelings and ideas changed as you got older. When you are face to face with a young person, try to:

• be genuinely open to their questions or needs for information
• avoid judgemental words or body language that suggests disapproval of the young person or their questions and needs
• understand that the young person has various feelings of discomfort and uncertainty. Be reassuring in responding to the young person, making them feel more comfortable and confident
• demonstrate sincerity and willingness to help
• reinforce their decision to seek counselling and/or healthcare; do not give them the impression that you think their visit was unnecessary
• exhibit honesty and forthrightness, including an ability to admit when you do not know the answer
• demonstrate responsibility in fulfilling your professional role
• exhibit confidence and professional competence in addressing adolescent and youth reproductive health issues.