Counselling or Clinical Supervision FAQ

Counselling Supervision FAQ

1. What is counselling or clinical supervision?

Counselling supervision, sometimes known as clinical supervision, is a professional relationship between a supervisor and a counsellor-in-training or a practicing counsellor. It involves regular meetings where the supervisor provides guidance, support, and feedback to enhance the counsellor’s skills, ethical practice and professional development. In Australia it is mandatory to have regular supervision to maintain membership with any Peak Body’s, such as the ACA or PACFA.

2. Who can benefit from supervision?

Supervision is beneficial at various stages of your careers, including trainees, newly registered counsellors. Additionally, experienced practitioners seeking support and professional growth also benefit from regular sessions.

3. What are the goals of supervision?

The goals of supervision in counselling, include:

• Enhancing counselling skills and competencies
• Ensuring ethical practice and adherence to professional standards
• Supporting personal and professional development
• Promoting self-awareness and reflection
• Providing a safe space for counsellors to discuss challenging cases and receive feedback

4. How often should supervision sessions occur?

The frequency of supervision sessions varies depending on the counsellor’s level of experience, caseload, and organisational requirements. Typically, sessions are fortnightly or monthly, however this may vary based on needs and preferences. Sessions can be individual or group, depending on your needs and experience.

5. What happens during a supervision session?

During a session, the counsellor presents cases, discusses ethical dilemmas, seeks guidance on interventions and reflects on their personal and professional growth. The supervisor provides feedback, offers support and facilitates the counsellor’s learning and development. For new counsellors, it should involve mentoring, what is their hook or niche, what direction do they wish to move towards, what specialisation, if any do that what to work towards.

6. Is supervision confidential?

Yes, counselling supervision is confidential within the boundaries of ethical and legal requirements. Information shared during supervision is confidential, however there are exceptions when involving harm to self or others or as required by law.

7. How do I choose the right supervisor?

When choosing a supervisor, consider their qualifications, experience and compatibility with your learning style and professional goals. It can be helpful to have an initial session or consultation to assess the fit.

8. Can I receive supervision online?

Yes, supervision can be conducted online (Zoom), offering flexibility and accessibility for counsellors and supervisors.

9. What if I have concerns about my supervisor or the supervision process?

It’s important to communicate openly with your supervisor about any concerns or issues you may have. If you’re unable to resolve the concerns directly, you may consider seeking supervision from a different supervisor or discussing the matter with your training program or professional association or contact the peak body they are registered with to file a complaint.

10. How does supervision differ from counselling or therapy?

Counselling supervision focuses on the counsellor’s professional development, case consultation, fitness to practice and adherence to ethical standards. Whereas, counselling primarily focuses on the client’s concerns and therapeutic interventions to address them.

11. Can I receive supervision if I’m not currently practicing as a counsellor?

Yes, individuals pursuing counselling registration or those interested in exploring counselling as a career can benefit from supervision to enhance their skills, knowledge and readiness for practice.

12. How long does supervision last?

The duration of counselling supervision varies depending on the counsellor’s needs, career stage and professional goals. However, it is a mandatory part of registration, so you this will be required for your entire career. Some counsellors may engage in supervision for a specific period, such as during internship or registration requirements. Others may continue supervision throughout their career for ongoing support and development.

This FAQ blog is designed to provide an overview of counselling supervision and address common questions and concerns that counsellors may have.

Counselling Supervision Helpful Links

Feel free to go to the Supervision page on my website for more information.

Here is an interesting article with supervision resources that may be helpful

This is another interesting article with resources for your consideration