Clinical supervision is a professional relationship between a more experienced clinician (the supervisor) and a less experienced clinician (the supervisee). The purpose of clinical supervision is to help the supervisee develop their clinical skills and knowledge, so that they can provide better care to their clients.There are different models of clinical supervision, but all involve some combination of mentoring, teaching, and support.
The supervisor provides the supervisee with feedback on their clinical work, helps them to develop treatment plans, and offers guidance on how to deal with difficult cases. The supervisee is expected to take an active role in their own supervision, by asking questions and seeking feedback.
In order to be effective, clinical supervision must be regular, consistent, and structured. It should also involve both formal and informal elements, such as case reviews, didactic instruction, and role-playing.
Why is Clinical Supervision Important?
Clinical supervision is important because it helps to ensure that clinicians are providing high-quality, ethical, and competent care to their clients. Supervision can also help to prevent burnout and vicarious trauma, by providing a space for clinicians to process their work.
In addition, clinical supervision is required by many licensing boards in order to maintain one’s license to practice. For example, the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) requires that counsellors receive at least 10 hours of clinical supervision per year in order to maintain their membership.
What Are the Different Models of Clinical Supervision?
There are many different models of clinical supervision, but they can broadly be divided into three categories: traditional, peer, and group supervision.
Traditional supervision is the most common type of supervision, and involves a supervisor and a supervisee meeting one-on-one on a regular basis. The relationship is usually asymmetrical, with the supervisor taking on a more directive role.
Peer supervision involves two or more clinicians who are at the same level of training and experience meeting regularly to discuss their cases. The relationship is more collaborative, and there is often more of a focus on self-reflection and peer feedback.
Group supervision involves a group of clinicians meeting regularly to discuss their cases. The group may be made up of clinicians at different levels of training and experience, or all at the same level. Group supervision often has a more didactic focus, with the supervisor acting as more of a teacher.
<h4>It can be difficult to find a supervisor who is qualified and experienced in all the areas you need supervision in. </h4>
<h6>Not only is it hard to find a Supervisor who meets all your needs, but it can also be expensive. Supervision can be an important part of your career, but it's not always easy to find the right fit or afford the right price.
Our Empowered Practice Internship – Counselling (EPIC) – everything you need to know to take counselling theory to practice! Our Clinical Supervisors are qualified and experienced in counselling, integrative psychotherapy, family therapy, expressive therapies, support work, ACA convening, counselling for workcover/workers compensation and CTP claimants for mental, emotional and spiritual health. Plus, our package is affordable and fits into your busy schedule.
What you receive in EPIC;
- 2 hours of Group Supervision/month (recorded)
- 1 hour of 1-1 Supervision/week/fortnight/month
- Tools, techniques & practical support for the 5 Areas of Supervision
- Individual Supervision Checklist each session
- ACA Logbook completed
- OPD invitations
This package is available as part of your clinical supervision, ask your Cogni Academy Clinical Supervisor in your next session about EPIC.
