Supervision

We are currently running a supervision group for counselors seeking licensure. New members are being accepted. For more information, contact Catherine Clark at catherine@sonacounseling.com

What is clinical supervision for pre-licensed and licensed therapists?

Clinical supervision for pre-licensed therapists is like an apprenticeship. For state licensing purposes, it’s the formal, documented time you (a pre-licensed counselor or therapist) and a clinical supervisor spend together to discuss your work with clients, to review individual cases, and for your professional development.

Ongoing clinical supervision is a formative process that teaches you about yourself as a therapist. This is a useful tool throughout one’s career even after a license is secured. Many therapists see their clinical supervisors as mentors who help them find direction in their careers and give them important tools for self-care. The relationships you grow during the clinical supervision process will impact your professional and personal development for years to come. Supervision can be returned to and used again throughout your career.

What’s a clinical supervisor?

Think of a clinical supervisor as a mentor or coach that you (or your employer) hire to guide you toward licensure and offer support and encouragement as you navigate the pre-licensure period. If you are already licensed a clinical supervisor will partner with you to foster your ongoing growth and professional development.

Why is clinical supervision important?

Beyond fulfilling the required hours to get your license as a therapist or counselor, clinical supervision has a profound impact on the trajectory of your career and the lives of your clients.

On-the-job training and feedback – You work in the field under the guidance of a trusted, accomplished professional who can objectively critique your work so you can continue to improve as a practitioner. 

Resources, resources, resources– A great clinical supervisor will not only give you feedback on the work you’re doing, but they will also introduce you to the tools and sources of inspiration they use in their own work. 

Professional network- As an up-and-coming practitioner, you might not have access to other counseling professionals that can connect you with job opportunities – especially if you live in an area without a robust mental health community. Your clinical supervisor can be a key professional connection throughout your career.

Emotional support – According to Administration and Policy in Mental Health, anywhere from 21% – 67% of mental health workers experience burnout, and working in isolation is a major contributing factor. It’s essential to your wellbeing that you fill your network with fellow therapists and counselors who get what it’s like to experience the unique struggles you’ll encounter on a daily basis. Your clinical supervisor will be there to help you get through the tough times and provide you with a sense of camaraderie and encouragement while also challenging you to think things through as a professional therapist.

Better outcomes for your clients – According to a 2017 study by the University of Alaska Department of Psychology, 45% of clinical supervisees report that a supportive relationship with a clinical supervisor has a positive impact on mental health clients. An excellent clinical supervisor will provide you with a sense of trust and safety so you can feel free to explore where you’ve fallen short of expectations, learn from mistakes, and go into sessions confident that you can provide your clients the care they need.

If you are interested in clinical supervision please contact us. We provide individual and group clinical supervision.