Active Listening Techniques

• Give full attention to the speaker
• Use reflective listening ("I hear you saying...")
• Ask clarifying questions when appropriate
• Validate emotions and experiences
• Summarize key points to show understanding
• Allow for silence and processing time

Creating Safe Spaces

• Maintain a calm, patient presence
• Use empathetic language and tone
• Avoid interrupting or rushing speakers
• Respect different communication styles
• Be culturally sensitive and inclusive
• Support self-expression without directing it

Prohibited Activities

• Don't provide therapy or counseling - unless licensed and authorized
• Don't give medical advice - refer to healthcare professionals
• Don't diagnose conditions - only professionals can diagnose
• Don't prescribe solutions - avoid telling people what to do
• Don't share personal details - keep focus on the speaker
• Don't record sessions - without explicit consent from all parties
• Don't contact outside platform - maintain professional boundaries

What Stays Confidential

• All personal information shared during sessions
• Emotional content and personal stories
• Specific details about speaker's life
• Identity information and contact details
• Session content and conversation topics

Crisis Situations

• Stay calm - maintain composure to provide support
• Listen actively - let them express their feelings
• Don't minimize - take all expressions of distress seriously
• Encourage professional help - gently suggest appropriate resources
• Know your limits - recognize when to escalate or refer
• Follow protocol - contact LissnUp support for guidance

Maintaining Appropriate Relationships

• Keep relationships professional - avoid personal friendships
• Don't exchange personal contact info - communicate only through platform
• Avoid dual relationships - don't mix personal and professional roles
• Respect cultural differences - be aware of diverse backgrounds
• Maintain emotional boundaries - provide support without taking on others' problems

Self-Care for Listeners

• Take breaks between sessions
• Seek supervision or support when needed
• Recognize signs of emotional fatigue
• Maintain your own mental health
• Know when to refer to professionals

Expected Behaviors

• Punctuality - arrive on time for scheduled sessions
• Preparation - be mentally and emotionally ready
• Consistency - maintain reliable, professional demeanor
• Respect - treat all users with dignity and kindness
• Professionalism - use appropriate language and behavior
• Feedback - participate in quality improvement processes

Continuous Learning

• Participate in ongoing training programs
• Stay updated on best practices
• Attend workshops and skill-building sessions
• Seek feedback and implement improvements
• Share experiences and learn from peers

Behavior That May Result in Removal

• Providing unauthorized professional services
• Breaking confidentiality inappropriately
• Engaging in inappropriate personal relationships
• Discriminatory or harmful behavior
• Persistent failure to follow guidelines
• Misrepresenting qualifications or credentials

Reporting Concerns

If you observe violations or have concerns:

• Report to LissnUp management immediately
• Document incidents with specific details
• Prioritize user safety in all decisions
• Cooperate with investigations when needed