“I” Messages

The use of “I” messages serves to personalize the crisis responder. Simple and direct statements go a long way toward instilling confidence, hope and reassurance. For example:

“I’m glad you decided to talk to me.”
“You sound like a very (strong, caring, sensitive) person.”
“I’m glad you’ve decided to get help, you deserve it.”
“You have a good sense of humor, that’s a great way to cope sometimes.”

Don’t make a statement to the person that is not true. If you say the person sounds like a sensitive person but do not believe it to be true the person may sense you are being less than truthful. False statements ruin rapport and trust.