Why Choose a Clinical Psychologist for Supervision?
Clinical Psychologists bring a depth of understanding to supervision that extends beyond standard line management or appraisal. A reflective space grounded in psychological theory is provided helping staff to understand not just what is happening in their work but why. This approach offers clarity and support for complex casework and professional development.
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Supervision is tailored to the specific professional background and career stage of the supervisee, ensuring that it is both relevant and growth-oriented.
My experience includes supervising a diverse range of professionals:
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Social Workers
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Residential care staff
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Psychotherapists
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CBT Therapists
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Occupational Therapists (OTs)
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Psychiatric Nurses
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Psychiatrists
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Healthcare Support Workers
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Clinical Psychologists (both in training and peer supervision)
Psychological Formulation in Supervision
One of the most valuable aspects of supervision with a Clinical Psychologist is the integration of psychological formulation. This process involves understanding how the supervisee's own experiences, emotional responses, and cognitive patterns may be impacting their clinical work and relationships with clients. Through this reflective practice, we often uncover insights that bridge the gap between the need for personal therapy and professional guidance.
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Supervision is not just about accountability; it is about insight, growth, and professional resilience.
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Supervision vs. Line Management
While line management is often focused on task completion and performance appraisals, clinical supervision provides a reflective, growth-oriented space. It is not simply about 'how things are going' but about exploring the emotional and psychological layers of clinical work. Supervision allows for:
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Reflective exploration of case dynamics
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Understanding the emotional impact of client work
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Psychological formulation of challenges and patterns
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Ethical considerations and professional boundaries
This process often bridges the gap between personal therapy and managerial oversight, creating a space where professional and personal development can occur safely and constructively.
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Supervision Models
I offer different models of supervision tailored to professional needs and career stage. One of the overarching structures I use is the Seven-Eyed Model of Supervision:
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Focus on the Client – Understanding the client's experience and needs.
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Interventions by the Supervisee – Reflecting on strategies and therapeutic techniques used.
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Supervisee's Process – Exploring the supervisee's thoughts, feelings, and responses.
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Relationship between Supervisee and Client – Examining dynamics and relational aspects.
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Supervisor's Process – Awareness of the supervisor's own thoughts and reactions.
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The Supervisory Relationship – Reflecting on the dynamics between supervisor and supervisee.
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Wider Context – Considering the organisational, societal, and cultural influences on practice.
The Seven-Eyed Model offers an adaptable, high level framework, allowing for a richer, more nuanced understanding of professional practice, across a range of professions.
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Hawkins, P., & Shohet, R. (2020). Supervision in the Helping Professions (5th ed.). Maidenhead: Open University Press.