What is the purpose of the initial counseling session?

The primary purpose of the initial counseling session is to establish goals and build rapport between the Marine and the counselor. This foundational aspect of counseling is crucial as it sets the tone for the relationship and the process that follows. Establishing rapport fosters trust and openness, allowing the Marine to feel comfortable sharing personal information and concerns. Additionally, identifying and setting goals during this session helps both the counselor and the Marine to have a clear framework for what they aim to achieve in future sessions. This collaborative approach enhances the effectiveness of the counseling process, ultimately leading to better support for the Marine's needs and objectives.

While other elements, such as reviewing disciplinary records or assessing financial status, may be components of subsequent sessions or different types of counseling, they do not fundamentally capture the essence of what the initial session aims to achieve.