Form DA-4856, also known as the Developmental Counseling Form, is used by the United States Army for counseling sessions with soldiers. It is typically completed by a soldier's supervisor or counselor, and sometimes by the soldier themselves, depending on the purpose of the counseling session.
Here are a few scenarios where different individuals may complete Form DA-4856:
1. Supervisor: The soldier's immediate supervisor completes Form DA-4856 when conducting regular counseling sessions with their subordinates. These sessions aim to discuss and evaluate performance, set goals, address areas that need improvement, and provide guidance and support.
2. Counselor: When soldiers receive specialized counseling from professionals, such as mental health professionals or career counselors, they may complete Form DA-4856. This counseling can address personal issues, career guidance, stress management, or any other relevant topics.
3. Soldier: In some situations, soldiers may be required to complete Form DA-4856 themselves. For instance, if they are seeking career guidance or requesting a specific type of training or path, they can document their own goals, aspirations, and reasons for counseling.
4. Team Leader: In a team-oriented environment, the designated team leader may use Form DA-4856 to conduct counseling sessions with their team members. This allows the team leader to address individual performance, teamwork, communication, and any other relevant matters.
5. First-line Supervisor: In cases where a soldier has multiple layers of supervision, the first-line supervisor may complete Form DA-4856 to provide feedback and discuss specific goals or issues. This form of counseling helps maintain communication and coordination between different levels of leadership.
In summary, Form DA-4856 is typically completed by a soldier's supervisor, counselor, or by the soldier themselves. The specific circumstances and purpose of the counseling session determine who will complete the form.