During the "opening" step of the counseling process, what is one of the senior's responsibilities?

During the "opening" step of the counseling process, establishing expectations is crucial for creating a constructive environment for the discussion. This responsibility involves clearly indicating to the junior Marine what they can anticipate throughout the counseling session, including the topics to be discussed, the tone of the meeting, and the overall goals. By setting these expectations, the senior Marine helps to foster trust and openness, allowing the junior to engage more fully in the process.

This aspect of the counseling process is important because it helps both parties stay focused and understand the purpose of the meeting. When expectations are clearly established, it minimizes confusion and ensures that the session is productive and beneficial for the junior Marine's development. It also aids in creating a supportive atmosphere where the junior feels comfortable to participate actively and share their perspectives.

Other responsibilities, such as creating an agenda or providing feedback, may be relevant to the overall counseling process but are typically handled later in the meeting once expectations have been set. Setting strict time limits could be counterproductive in the opening phase, as this stage should prioritize establishing rapport and clarity rather than rushing through the initial interactions.