Finding a qualified supervisor is one of the required steps to become a Registered Mental Health Intern. Maintaining an ongoing relationship with your supervisor is the next step in obtaining the state license. If you are in the process of finding a supervisor (or already went through it), you would agree with me that it is a bit of a stressful task. Although there are accessible options to find a qualified supervisor, finding the right one can get quite daunting.
The conventional ways to acquire supervision can be through the board, through the internet, through personal recommendations, or through the agency where you work. Usually, supervision services offer through an agency are free (#Wins!). However, before you get excited, you must know that this type of supervision service prioritizes the company's interest. Keep in mind that this relationship is necessary and required by the employer more often than not. Therefore, it is common for these supervisors to neglect the intern's professional development and needs.
Know that it is possible to change supervisors as you go; nevertheless, the procedure of switching to a new supervisor can be tedious and inconvenient. See the process below:
As specified in the text above, the switching process entails a time gap where your hours towards the licensure will not count, which can be a setback. Besides, adapting to different supervisors and supervision styles can be a conflicting factor for the supervisee's professional development and identity. In a perfect world, one keeps their original supervisor throughout the two years of mandated supervision, and yet, life happens. Sometimes we encounter lousy supervisors, or sometimes the services must terminate for matters outside of our control. For these reasons, we must know our rights and responsibilities as interns and the supervisor and obligations.
First things first, we shall not point out fingers without addressing ourselves in the mirror first.
Therefore, take a look at the Supervisee's Responsibilities:
Identify yourself as a "Registered Mental Health Intern" or "Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern." (Note: The full name; do not use abbreviations).
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the ACA Code of ethics
Hold a liability malpractice insurance (click here: https://forms.hpso.com/mustela/site?productName=HCI#/QuickQuote)
Analyze and monitor one's professional functioning
Practice self-care to avoid burn out
Share proper qualifications with the client, as well as the name and qualifications of one's supervisor.
Obtain written consent stating that the client understands how supervision impacts confidentiality.
Actively look for issues and topics that can promote meaningful supervision sessions.
Share sings of distress with one's supervisor.
Treat one's supervisor with respect.
According to the ACA Code of ethics, "A primary obligation of counseling supervisors is to monitor the services provided by supervisees. Counseling supervisors monitor client welfare and supervisee performance and professional development. To fulfill these obligations, supervisors meet regularly with supervisees to review their work and help them become prepared to serve a range of diverse clients."
The supervisor's expectations include:
Create a supervision contract and informed consent between supervisor and supervisee
Help supervisee identify clinical problems in the delivery of services
Assist with administrative, educational, and supportive functions as needed
Exert the role of executive authority that represent the code of ethics and the board of the respective state
Assume legal and ethical responsibilities for the supervisee's actions of malpractice.
Provide opportunities for professional growth
Be responsive and responsible for the supervisee's overall work performance.
Keep up with updated rules, regulations, and codes of ethics (according to the corresponding state).
Act as the gatekeeper for the counseling profession
Establish proper communication about absences or emergencies and offer an alternative on-call supervisor to assist in critical moments
If the termination of supervision is necessary, the supervisor is responsible for making appropriate referrals to an alternative supervisor.
Confirm that the supervisee has adequate liability insurance.
Seek consultation if conflicts with a supervisee arise
I encourage you to revise the ACA Code of Ethics website for further details about supervisors and supervisee's competence. Keep in mind that the supervision experience (besides being obligatory) is supposed to increase your skills and solidify your professional identity. If your supervisor fails to render that service, you should address it with them. If the problem remains, then maybe it is time to invest in an alternative option. Yup! It will be out of pocket $, yet, know that it would be a vital pecuniary investment in your career.
Your Hustler,
Daniela Marin
Reference for Liability Insurance:
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