Army Publishing Directorate
Summary: DA Form 4856 is the official U.S. Army form used for conducting and documenting developmental counseling sessions between leaders and subordinates.
The DA Form 4856, Developmental Counseling Form (March 2023 edition), is a standardized document used throughout the United States Army to facilitate and record professional development counseling. It serves as a structured tool for leaders to document performance, professional growth, and specific counseling sessions, ensuring accountability and clear communication between the counselor and the counseled individual. This electronic version supports digital filling, saving, and signing.
Document outline
1. I. Administrative Data 2. II. Background Information 3. III. Summary of Counseling 4. IV. Assessment of the Plan of Action 5. V. Leader Responsibilities and Session Closing