Is a soldier required to sign a counseling form?

A soldier is not obligated to sign a counseling form, but if they refuse to do so, the refusal can be documented by the counselor. This reflects the policy that while counseling is a vital part of the soldier's development and should be encouraged, the signing of the form is not mandatory. This provision ensures that a soldier's perspective is acknowledged, even if they choose not to agree with the content or the process of counseling.

The significance of documenting a refusal to sign is that it maintains a clear record of the soldier's awareness of the counseling session and the contents discussed, which is essential for transparency and accountability. This approach also reinforces the soldier's agency in the counseling process while still ensuring that the counseling takes place as part of ongoing professional development and performance management.