What should a peer counselor avoid when interacting with a client?

A peer counselor should avoid giving unsolicited advice or judgment when interacting with a client because such behaviors can undermine the trust and open communication essential to the counseling relationship. Peer counseling is about providing support and empathy, allowing clients to express their thoughts and feelings without feeling pressured or critiqued. Unsolicited advice can make clients feel dismissed or belittled, as it may imply that they cannot find their own solutions. Instead, a peer counselor should facilitate a safe environment in which clients can explore their own perspectives and make their own decisions, fostering a sense of autonomy and empowerment.

While it is also important to avoid behaviors such as encouraging self-criticism, taking control of the conversation, or using complex language, the emphasis on avoiding unsolicited advice or judgment reflects a core principle of peer counseling—supporting clients in their journey rather than steering them toward someone else's solutions.