How can a counselor ensure a Marine understands the advice given during a session?

The approach of summarizing key points and encouraging questions for clarity is effective in ensuring that a Marine understands the advice given during a counseling session. This technique actively engages the Marine in the discussion, allowing them to process the information being shared. By summarizing key points, the counselor highlights the most critical aspects of the conversation, reinforcing those concepts in the Marine’s mind.

Furthermore, encouraging questions creates an open dialogue where the Marine can seek clarification on any confusing topics. This not only aids in understanding but also builds rapport and trust between the counselor and the Marine. When recipients of advice feel comfortable asking questions, they are more likely to grasp the information thoroughly, leading to better retention and application of the guidance provided.

Other methods, while useful, may not foster the same level of engagement or understanding. For instance, simply asking to summarize at the end may not ensure comprehension if the Marine didn’t fully grasp the concepts to begin with. Written documentation is helpful but relies on the individual’s willingness to read and interpret the material later, which might not facilitate immediate understanding. Checking understanding with a quiz can be too formal and may put unnecessary pressure on the Marine, potentially discouraging them from opening up about areas of confusion.