An Introduction to
Supervision.
The need for supervision does not end once a student graduates from a training program in counselling (Bernard & Goodyear, 2004; Borders & Cashwell, 1992). As such, supervision has become one of the most consistent requirements in the ongoing, post-degree, continuing education of counsellors (Fall & Sutton, 2003).
By definition, supervision is an intervention provided by a senior member of a profession to a more junior member or members. This relationship often extends over time, and has the simultaneous purposes of enhancing the professional functioning of the more junior member(s); monitoring the quality of professional services offered to the clients that s/he or they see; and serving as a gatekeeper of those who are to enter the particular profession (Bernard & Goodyear, 2004, p. 8).
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Clinical supervision is an important and ongoing process in the development of counsellors working in the profession.
Supervision is often experienced as a meaningful relationship that includes mentoring, teaching and support as well as being evaluative in nature. The importance of clinical supervision as a means for helping counsellors to build skills and develop professionally is well established (Bernard & Goodyear, 2004).
The role and responsibilities of the clinical supervisor are distinct and different from those of a counsellor, yet, a large number of counselling professionals who provide clinical supervision have never received formal supervision training themselves (Glosoff, Durham, & Whittaker, 2011; Nelson, Johnson, & Thorngren, 2000; Studer, 2005).
Supervision is a disciplined, tutorial process wherein principles are transformed into practical skills, with four overlapping foci: administrative, evaluative, clinical, and supportive (Powell & Brodsky, 2004, p. 11). Evaluative tools for supervision are increasing, attempting to provide
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standardised, objective and impartial measures but supervision occur within a relational context and can undermine their value (Bogo, Regehr, Power & Regehr, 2007). That being said, clinical supervision is a complex professional relationship that requires specific training.
Organisations, including PACFA, require supervision of counsellors for professional membership and this course will offer the training and experiences you will need to become a registered supervisor. This 36-hour accredited and endorsed clinical supervision course is a well-developed, interactive, engaging and based in best practice standards.