This document provides guidance for counselors on an upcoming assignment due September 23rd. It instructs counselors to listen both linearly and nonlinearly during client assessments to build a strong therapeutic alliance and identify client needs, resources, strengths and gaps in their stories. Counselors are advised to consider both the conscious and unconscious parts of client stories, including recognizing potential adverse childhood experiences and how that might inform the assessment, guide goal development, and affect client readiness to change.