Punisher/Operator mode

Hello guys! I just have a question. I recently got FFVII on the ps5. I rarely play games like this but I wanted to try it out because it looked fun. I suck at fighting games so I got stuck on the Shock Troopers in the first chapter when escaping the reactor place (embarrassing Ik). I read online that I can counter with punisher, but if I’m being honest, I’m a little confused on how I can tell if I’m in punisher or not. Ik it has the box that says punisher/operator depending on which one you are on. But does it say punisher when you are on punisher mode? Or is that telling you that you can switch to operator? Pictures or videos would be very helpful, if possible!

Edit: Thank you guys so much! I didn’t expect for people to respond so quickly :)