Counseling quick reference

Keep this quick reference to use whenever counseling Soldiers or civilian team members.
Posted : Monday, January 01, 1900

Leaders must demonstrate these qualities to counsel effectively:

  • Respect for subordinates.
  • Self and cultural awareness.
  • Credibility.
  • Empathy.

Leaders must possess these counseling skills:

  • Active listening.
  • Responding.
  • Questioning.

Effective Leaders avoid common counseling mistakes.  Leaders should avoid:

  • Personal bias.
  • Rash judgments.
  • Stereotyping.
  • Losing emotional control.
  • Inflexible counseling methods.
  • Improper follow-up.

The counseling process:

  • Identify the need for counseling.
  • Prepare the counseling:
    • Select a suitable place.
    • Schedule the time.
    • Notify the subordinate well in advance.
    • Organize the information.
    • Outline the components of the counseling session.
    • Plan counseling strategy.
    • Establish the right atmosphere.
  • Conduct the counseling session:
    • Open the session.
    • Discuss the issue.
    • Develop a plan of action (to include the leader's responsibilities)
    • Record and close the session.
  • Follow up:
    • Support the plan of action implementation.
    • Assess the plan of action.

 

Source: FM 6-22 Army Leadership