Samtalspartnern

Samtalspartnern is a role in social support where a trained individual engages in regular conversations with another person to provide companionship, listening, and guided dialogue. The aim is to reduce loneliness, encourage social participation, and support reflective thinking. It is not a substitute for professional psychotherapy or medical treatment.

The term is used across various settings, including elder care, disability services, education, and community programs. Samtalspartnern can be a volunteer or paid position and is often arranged by municipalities, non-governmental organizations, or healthcare or social service providers. The approach emphasizes human connection and participatory dialogue rather than clinical intervention.

Responsibilities typically include establishing and maintaining appropriate boundaries, ensuring confidentiality where applicable, and adhering to a agreed schedule. The Samtalspartner focuses on active listening, asking open questions, and helping the other person articulate thoughts and experiences. They do not diagnose or treat mental health conditions and should know when to refer someone to professional services if concerns arise.

Training and quality assurance are central to the role. Common prerequisites include coursework in communication skills, ethics, safeguarding, privacy and data protection (such as GDPR), and crisis referral procedures, along with ongoing supervision and evaluation to maintain standards.

Impact and limitations: Samtalspartnern can contribute to reduced loneliness, increased social participation, and improved mood for some individuals. Effectiveness depends on suitable matching, clear role definitions, and safeguards to prevent dependence or boundary issues. The model is intended as a complement to formal care and support services.