The Nature of
Supervision
 
  1. The primary purpose of supervision is to optimise the therapeutic purpose of addressing the client’s needs.
  2. Supervision is a formal collaborative process whereby the supervision monitors, develops and supports the therapist in his/her work.
  3. Supervision is therefore concerned with:
    • Maximising the effectiveness of the therapist.
    • Monitoring and supporting the therapist in his/her work.
    • The relationship between the supervisor and the therapist, is built from mutual rapport, so that the therapist is enabled to develop his/her professional identity.
    • The ability of the supervisor to be both critical and supportive of the therapist.
    • The supervisor needs to be able to clarify the relationship between therapist, client, supervisor and (if any) other relevant organisations.
    • Ensuring that both validatory prerequisites and ethical standards are maintained throughout the therapeutic relationship.
  1. Supervision is not primarily concerned with:
    • Training.
    • Personal therapy for the therapist.
    • Line management.
    • (Although the skills associated with these activities are central to competent supervision.)
  2. The supervisory relationship must be confidential unless specified in the initial contract.
  3. A therapist must not work without regular supervision at least once a month.
 
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