Trust in Healthcare
Bridging Interpersonal Trust Frameworks and Personality Styles
Applying a values-based lens to trust
This article explores how applying a values-based lens to familiar trust frameworks, including the Four Habits Model, Relationship-Centered Care, and the BRAVING Trust Model, can support more intentional, responsive communication by clarifying what different individuals are responding to as interactions unfold.
This article is written for clinicians who regularly navigate high-stakes conversations with limited time and complex human dynamics. It invites them to notice how trust can land differently depending on what individuals prioritize.
Building Trust Through Care and Understanding
Individuals with the Connector (NF) values often feel most supported when communication conveys empathy, personal connection, and reassurance.
Building Trust Through Reliability and Clarity
Individuals with Planner (SJ) values generally feel most grounded when communication is consistent, organized, and demonstrates clear follow-through.
Building Trust Through Competence and Logic
Individuals with Thinker (NT) values are typically most receptive to logical reasoning, investigative inquiry, and clear explanations that address root causes.
Building Trust Through Action and Autonomy
Individuals with Mover (SP) values appreciate direct, “tell it to me straight” communication. They engage best when information provided is brief and actionable.
Rather than adding burden, a values-based lens lends clarity and reduces friction. Different perspectives become information instead of obstacles. Clinicians gain a way to interpret distinct patterns in how patients engage, prepare, and respond during care making the communication frameworks they already know even more effective in practice.
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This article reflects collaborative work by Cres Woods and Rachel Kelter, informed by practitioner experience, survey data collected from clinicians in 2025, and the Personality Lingo® system developed by Mary Miscisin. The intent is to support reflective, values-based communication in clinical practice.
Rachel Kelter, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, CPC
Rachel is a Human Skills Coach, Registered Nurse, and entrepreneur who bridges clinical science with deep self-awareness and practical application. With over 14 years of experience as a Registered Nurse—specializing in nursing practice education and leadership—Rachel brings a grounded, real-world perspective to trust, communication, and professional development.
Her signature presentation, Applying a Values-Based Lens to Trust Building, helps individuals and teams better understand how trust is experienced differently across personalities. By integrating values-based insight with evidence-informed practice, Rachel supports clearer communication, stronger relationships, and more adaptive workplace cultures.
Rachel’s work is guided by a mission to help individuals shed patterns of self-criticism and internal pressure—replacing them with greater confidence, clarity, and emotional resilience through a combination of intuitive and science-based approaches.