Supervision is an essential requirement of many Counsellor Training Courses and Professional Members Body.
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF SUPERVISION?
The purpose of supervision is to give an opportunity for counsellors/psychotherapists to reflect on their work, be accountable, receive feedback, gain further knowledge and skills, and where appropriate, to be challenged in a positive and respectful way and to assist them in maintaining their Professional and Ethical standards.
In other words, supervision is a place of growth in a safe environment, where confidentiality and privacy is maintained at all times.
Individual Supervision is also an opportunity for supervisees to get some support from their supervisor, and to be able to share their knowledge and experience in dealing with their challenging cases and management issues.
Individual Supervision is for experienced Counsellors/Psychotherapists, new graduates and interns.
WHAT TYPES OF INDIVIDUAL SUPERVISION ARE THERE?
There are two types of Individual Supervision:
- in person
- Online (via Zoom/Skype) for those who are in remote areas, interstate or overseas
WHAT ARE OUR OBJECTIVES IN SUPERVISION?
- to provide an educational process focused on the learning of the supervisee
- to meet the needs of individual differences in supervisees
- to assist supervisees in working more effectively and creatively with their clients
- to explore different ways in working with difficult clients
- to help supervisees think systemically and staying focused with their work
- to deal with trauma, abuse or mental disorder cases
- to explore ways in working and managing Domestic Violence cases
- to promote different levels of reflection and increase awareness on supervisees’ work, which will be of benefit to their clients
- to help supervises be aware of, and to work with, cultural, racial, age, gender, religious and sexual orientation differences
- to monitor professional issues
- to help supervisees develop ethical maturity
WHAT METHODS THE INDIVIDUAL SUPERVISION USES
A variety of methods will be used throughout the supervisory process:
- Verbal: through dialogue discussion
- Creative: sand-play, arts, objects, pillows, pictures, etc.
- Experiential: role plays, chair work, sculpting, etc.
HOW OFTEN TO HAVE INDIVIDUAL SUPERVISION
It is common practice that counsellors/psychotherapists have monthly supervision. However, it is recommended for new graduates and interns to have supervision every 4-6 sessions.