Which type of summary is designed to signal that the session can move on after capturing the topic's essence?

• A. Planning Summaries
• B. Focusing Summaries
• C. Signal Summaries
• D. Summarizing

Answer: (C)

In practice, a signal summary is a brief wrap-up that confirms the main idea has been captured and cues the session to move on. It serves as a transition tool, letting both client and counselor know that this topic has been adequately addressed and it’s time to shift to the next area. This pacing helps maintain momentum and ensures clarity about progress.

This type differs from planning summaries, which lay out what will be done next, and focusing summaries, which tighten attention on a current topic. A general summarizing step restates what was discussed without automatically signaling a move to the next topic. So, using a signal summary provides that clear cue to transition, aligning the session’s flow with progress.