Always begin the session by asking them just general question...make them feel comfortable and like you are there for them/want to engage with them about more than just an essay

Remind students that it is okay/encouraged for them to ask questions; you are there to help them in any way they need

Generally I think a conversational approach is good, whatever it takes to get them participating in their own success

Ask students what they like/don’t like about the essay, what they want to work on. If they want to focus more on grammar and there are some global issues with the paper, you may prioritize the global issues, but the student’s opinions should be taken into account when setting the agenda.