During counseling you allow the subordinate to determine the direction of the session. What type of counseling session is this?

During counseling you allow the subordinate to determine the direction of the session. What type of counseling session is this?

• A. Nondirected
• B. Self-directed
• C. Undirected
• D. Informal directed

Answer: (A)

Nondirected counseling involves letting the subordinate set the session’s direction. In this approach, the counselor avoids steering topics, pace, or outcomes and instead uses listening, reflection, and open-ended questions to help the client explore concerns and discover solutions themselves. This puts the client in control, fostering ownership and self-awareness, which is especially useful for development and motivation. Because the subordinate determines what’s discussed, the session stays focused on their needs rather than the counselor imposing topics or giving direct advice. Other terms imply some level of direction or lack a standard counseling framing, so nondirected best captures the scenario where the client guides the conversation.