What are the four steps of a formal counseling session?

• A. Discuss and diagnose the issue, prepare the session, close the session, and document outcomes.
• B. Prepare the session, document the evaluation, set new evaluation metrics, and terminate.
• C. Prepare the session, discuss and diagnose the issue, establish goals and an action plan, and follow up to evaluate progress.
• D. Prepare the session, discuss and diagnose the issue, establish goals and an action plan, and follow up to evaluate progress.

Answer: (D)

The four steps focus on planning, understanding the issue, setting goals with a concrete plan, and checking progress. Start by preparing the session to clarify purpose, gather relevant information, and set expectations. Then discuss and diagnose the issue so both sides share their perspective and identify contributing factors. Next, establish clear goals and an action plan that specify what success looks like, who will do what, and by when. Finally, follow up to evaluate progress, review outcomes, and adjust the plan as needed. Other options either emphasize closing or documenting outcomes, or introduce termination or metrics that don’t align with the standard counseling flow. This sequence builds accountability and a clear path for development.