What Is Clinical Supervision In Psychology?
Regardless of the profession you’re in, you need to start somewhere. Whether your role is as a lawyer, teacher, retail assistant, or customer service representative, you can only learn so much by researching and observing. While these are great ways to learn, they’re only part of the puzzle.
One of the best ways you can improve and grow is to demonstrate your skills to somebody who knows your role well and has been in your shoes before. Those of us who work in the psychology field are no different. Our field has a process known as clinical supervision, which has proven beneficial to psychologists and clients alike.
This article explains what clinical supervision is in psychology and what its purpose is. For personalised advice regarding clinical supervision, contact our team at Nest Health Hub today.
What Clinical Supervision Is In Psychology
Even after completing a three, four, eight, or ten year university degree there’s still a lot to learn. Much of that is learnt on the job, through observing others in your field and how different people in your profession approach certain aspects of the role. In many cases, after you’ve completed research and observation it’s time to learn in yet another way.
In psychology, one part of the learning process is clinical supervision. Clinical supervision involves a supervisor advising the supervisee on their work and providing feedback through a number of different channels.
Clinical supervision can be done in different ways depending on different learning and teaching styles, including:
Through direct observation
In structured one-on-one sessions
Through small group discussions
Via ‘on the job’ practical guidance during a specific task or skill
Via audio and/or visual presentations
Through a verbal review of case notes
Clinical supervision can be performed through one or a combination of the above learning methods. It looks different for everybody, but always aims to facilitate growth in your career and your ability to help others.
The relationship between the supervisor and supervisee is integral to clinical supervision running smoothly and effectively. When both parties have respect for and trust in each other, they are more likely to feel open to feedback which then enables learning for both the supervisor and supervisee. In turn, this aims to provide the best outcome for clients.
Overall, clinical supervision intends to enhance clinical skills for psychologists through review, discussion, and feedback, regardless of the way it’s provided.
The Purpose Of Clinical Supervision In Psychology
The idea behind clinical supervision has been around for a long time. Receiving assistance in this manner allows psychologists to recognise their skills and where they may need improvement, helping them to develop and refine their skills in order to do their best work.
When it comes to psychology and helping people to work through personal issues and trauma, we understand how unique each person and their story is. Clinical supervision allows psychologists to hone their skills in a number of areas, with the aim of good psychologists becoming even greater at what they do.
There are three main purposes of clinical supervision in psychology:
To gain new knowledge, build upon already existing knowledge, and combine therapeutic skills
To monitor ethical standards and responsibilities and ensure these responsibilities are upheld
To give and receive support both professionally and personally
Building knowledge
Clinical supervision allows practicing psychologists to reflect on their own skills and performance. In doing so, they can build on the knowledge they already have through advice from others in the field. New knowledge, or a different way of approaching a situation, can prove invaluable to clients.
Monitoring standards
Upholding ethical responsibilities and following codes of conduct are paramount in all areas of mental health help. These professional standards must be maintained at all times, and sometimes finding the right way to navigate a situation can be complex. Clinical supervision allows for guidance and support from a supervisor to aid in determining the best course of action while maintaining these standards.
Gaining support
Due to the very nature of the role, psychology can be a stressful field. While giving support to clients is the main goal, it’s important that psychologists receive help of their own. Knowing that support is available when needed can assist in avoiding burnout and reducing stress at home and at work. Additionally, this support may help psychologists to be empathetic with clients and do all they can without becoming too emotionally attached.
Clinical Supervision By Nest Health Hub
At Nest Health Hub, we’re committed to bridging the gap between psychology and occupational therapy in Newcastle for children, adolescents, and adults alike. We encourage the use of clinical supervision to help you improve your professional practice, whether your role is as a psychologist, social worker, occupational therapist, manager, or caseworker. To enquire about clinical supervision from our team at Nest Health Hub, get in touch with us today.
