Feel lost in peer conversations? The Diamond Communication Structure gives you a simple, reliable way to support someone in crisis, without making things worse.

Ever wish someone had given you a roadmap for crisis conversations?

Too often, we freeze up when a peer says, “I’m not OK.” We either launch into advice too quickly or fumble through the silence, hoping we’re doing it right. And in peer support, those moments matter.

One wrong move can shut a person down. But the right framework? It can build trust, open up healing, and give someone the safety to talk.

In this episode, I’ll teach you the Diamond Communication Structure, a proven way to guide someone through a hard conversation, especially when they’re sharing something traumatic.

It’s not a script. It’s a shape.

And once you learn it, you’ll never go into another conversation feeling unsure again.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

• How to use closed-ended questions to stabilize the conversation
• When to shift into open-ended questions to invite their story
• How to paraphrase and close the loop without rushing or minimizing

This is one of the most practical communication tools you can learn in peer support. And the best part? You can start using it today.

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

StressCareDoc.com

Schedule a Peer Support Discovery Call

Connect with Bart

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bartleger

Facebook Page: facebook.com/survivingyourshift

Website: www.survivingyourshift.com

Want to find out how I can help you build a peer support program in your organization or provide training? Schedule a no-obligation call or Zoom meeting with me here.

Mentioned in this episode:

Houston Area CISM GRIN Training

This 3-day course, hosted by the Atascocita Fire Department, will teach you how to support your peers through effective communication, emotional resilience, and understanding the psychological impact of crises.
Register for this training. https://stresscaredoc.com/atascocita-grin
Dates: January 6-8, 2026
Times: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM each day
Location: Atascocita Fire Admin Building