From a Supervisees Perspective

by Nancy Creighton, MA, LLPC, LLMFT, NCC

     Fresh out of graduate school, I felt like I had been thrown into the ocean without a life vest.  I knew I had to either sink or swim.  Well, I started swimming, but I had no idea which way to go.  I remember feeling both excited and terrified.  Excited about FINALLY being finished with al the classes and long hours of study, and terrified about how to put my knowledge to use.  The words "Do No Harm!" were firmly imprinted on my brain.  My first year in clinical practice was a struggle, to say the least, trying to find my niche, trying to find the right work environment, trying to gain financial stability, and trying to be an effective therapist.  I felt completely unprepared for dealing with managed care, mountains of paperwork, creating treatment plans, and doing therapy with clients.  If was extremely overwhelming! 

    What has helped me survive my first few years in practice has been excellent supervision offered by seasoned professionals.  My supervisors have been key figures in helping me to navigate the world of professional counseling.  I have been very lucky in having expert supervision, not only through my supervision group, but also through my place of employment.  I feel like I always have someone available to answer my questions in a timely fashion.  Starting out I had no idea how valuable supervision would be.  If it hadn't been a licensing requirement, I don't know if I would have spent the money to join a supervision group.  However, knowing what I know now, it has been money well spent and I cannot imagine operating without it.

    My supervisors' expert guidance and constant words of encouragement have been invaluable to me as a new therapist.  Receiving feedback on cases from both peers and supervisors has helped me gain valuable insight into my clients and myself.  This has been especially helpful when I'm feeling ineffective or dealing with difficult clients.

    Supervision has also given me a thorough understanding of the licensing process and the laws that govern the practice of counseling.  This has helped me to become especially cognizant of how I conduct m practice and the ethics involved in treating my clients.

    Another important aspect of my supervision has been the educational piece.  Even thought I'm finished with school, I still feel like I have a lot to learn.  Through supervision, I have had the opportunity to learn from experienced clinicians, observe them working with clients, and learn new counseling techniques that have been useful with my clients.

    Overall, supervision has helped me gain confidence in myself as a professional counselor.  It is an important link between graduate school and the working world. It has been my life vest.  Without is, I don't know if I would have been able to stay afloat.

    The Mentoring Institute provides supervision for new professionals who need to meet supervision requirements as an LPC, LMFT or CSW as well as collegial consultation for experienced professionals in the areas of practice concerns, clinical issues and ethics.  We welcome your questions and comments.  The Mentoring Institute, 1534 Woodland Dr., Portage, MI 49024.  Phone 269-327-6030 or email  TheMentoringInst@aol.com