What is Supervision?
Professional supervision is a proactive approach that involves meeting with a suitably qualified colleague or other professional on a regular basis, usually monthly. Supervision provides an opportunity to process and make sense of difficult experiences from the work environment and can cast a different perspective on problematic areas of practice. Understanding why certain clients or patients “push your buttons” can allow you to take a different approach. Communication problems are at the heart of many complaints and a better understanding of what is really going on in the helping professional/ client dynamic may enhance communication. There is a misperception that supervision is for those who are still in training or those who are weak, incompetent or ethically unsound. On the contrary, being prepared to make time to reflect upon your practice and identify your vulnerabilities requires strength, maturity and commitment and can help protect your well-being.
Professional supervision can be provided by a variety of professionals with a range of skills and qualifications. One of the key elements to successful supervision is the development of an effective collaborative working relationship with an emphasis on trust, openness and confidentiality. The supervisee is expected to prepare for supervision and to set the agenda by bringing along particular cases or problems, which may involve clients, colleagues, teams, organizational issues or personal difficulties that are impacting upon work. Different models can be utilized to explore the issue such as the “Five Realms” as described by David Owen. This was devised for medical practitioners but the model readily adapts to other professions. The five realms for exploration are the presenting problem; the client; the professional; the supervisory relationship and the social or organizational context. All five realms provide different perspectives that may enhance understanding and awareness and may lead to better and more satisfying practice.
What is Psychological First Aid?
Psychological First Aid (PFA) is described by the Phoenix Australia Centre for Post-traumatic Mental Health as an evidence-informed and flexible approach for helping people after a crisis. It is intended to be used in the short term aftermath of a potentially traumatic event and is intended to reduce the distress caused by the event. The aims are to establish safety and security; to reduce stress-related reactions; to connect to natural supports and resources; to provide support on an as needed basis; to enhance natural resilience and to foster coping.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have questions about supervision or PFA, or wish to arrange for a free initial consultation to discuss this further.
