Maximising Supervision During Your Internship
Supervision is an essential part of any provisional psychologist’s journey, especially during the psychology internship or early career phase of becoming fully registered. Providing guidance and support that enhances the learning experience, effective supervision ensures that you’re not only completing tasks but that you’re also gaining valuable insights, feedback and encouragement.
Whether you're just starting out or juggling the demands of study and practice, supervision offers a critical opportunity to grow, reflect, and develop your professional identity. But how can you truly make the most of these sessions?
Be Prepared and Proactive
Supervision isn't just about passively showing up. To get the most value, it’s important to be proactive, meaning you should come prepared for each session. Take some time beforehand to reflect on your recent experiences – think about what cases have challenged you, which clients left you with unanswered questions, and how you’re feeling about your development. Bringing this awareness into your session will help you focus on areas where you need guidance and support. It’s a good idea to keep a running list of topics or questions between sessions so that nothing gets lost in the shuffle. This proactive approach not only reflects well on you but also reassures supervisors of their investment in mentoring you throughout the internship.
Don’t Hesitate to Ask Questions
Many provisional psychologists, especially those new to the field, may feel unsure about what they should ask in supervision. The truth is there’s no wrong questions. Supervisors are there to help guide you, so whether it’s about clinical techniques, ethical concerns, or your own emotional reactions to clients, feel free to ask. They may be able to assist with preparation for the National Psychology Exam. If you're discussing a case and feel uncertain, break it down with your supervisor: What’s happening with the client? What are the treatment goals? What strategies have worked or fallen short? This kind of reflective practice will help you deepen your clinical thinking.
Discussing Cases Effectively
One of the most valuable parts of supervision is getting feedback on your clinical work. When discussing cases, try to present a clear picture to your supervisor. Start with a concise overview of the client’s background, the presenting issue, and any treatment plans or interventions you’ve implemented. Then, focus on areas where you need feedback. Do you feel stuck? Are you unsure about the next step in treatment? Be open to hearing feedback, even if it challenges your initial perspective. This is all part of learning and refining your skills as a psychologist.
Build a Collaborative Relationship
The relationship you develop with your supervisor is a crucial part of the learning process, so think of it as a partnership. A good supervisory relationship is one where you feel comfortable sharing your struggles, doubts, and triumphs. Remember, supervision is a safe space to learn, make mistakes, and grow. If something isn’t working in your supervision, don’t be afraid to discuss it with your supervisor. They can help adjust the focus to better meet your needs.
Establishing a positive relationship with your supervisor can also lead to networking opportunities that may benefit your future career. A supportive supervisor with which you have a positive rapport is more likely to introduce you to key contacts within the field or provide recommendations for future job openings based on their firsthand experience with your work ethic and skills.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Be Afraid of Your Supervisor
It’s natural to feel nervous about supervision, especially when you’re starting out. But it’s important to remember that supervisors are there to help, not to judge. They’ve walked the path before you and understand the learning curve involved. By being open, prepared, and engaged, you’ll find that supervision is not only a requirement but an invaluable tool in becoming the best psychologist you can be.
Whether you are pre-registration, or on the 4+2 or 5+1 pathway and even if you are recently registered, Psychology Squared offers supervision. Get in touch with us online now.