Top 5 Things to Ask to Find the Right Individual Clinical Supervisor for You

Finding the right external clinical supervisor is crucial for your professional growth and well-being as a therapist. A strong supervisory relationship helps you feel comfortable, understood, and supported in your practice. Many supervisors offer a free 15-minute consult to help find out if you’re a good fit for each other.

To make the most of the 15 min consult, take some time to explore the supervisor’s online presence beforehand so you can focus on other important questions in the consult call.

Do they have a website? Are they active on platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram? This initial research can help you get a feel for their approach and philosophy before you meet.

Once you're ready for the consult, here are the top 5 things to ask to ensure you're making the most of that 15-minute window.

1. Qualifications and Training

It’s important to understand the supervisor’s background and credentials to ensure they meet your professional and regulatory requirements.

Key questions to ask include:

• What are your qualifications and educational background?

• Have you completed specific training in supervision?

• Are you familiar with the regulatory requirements for social workers or psychotherapists?

  
  

For example, I meet the standards required by OCSWSSW, CRPO and AASW regulatory bodies and have specific training in providing supervision to both social workers and psychotherapists.

2. Modalities and Frameworks for Practice

Every supervisor brings their own therapeutic approach to both practice and supervision. This is your opportunity to ask about their theoretical orientation and how they approach supervision.

Consider asking:

• What modalities do you use in your practice and in supervision?

• Are your approaches aligned with how I work with clients?

  
  

In my case, I take an eclectic approach that includes CBT, ACT, narrative, and solution-focused therapies. I have a values-focused approach to my work, which forms the foundation of my supervisory relationships.

3. Supervision Style and Vibe

Your supervisor’s style can significantly impact the supervision experience. Supervisors may be more directive and structured, or they might take a reflective or process-orientated approach.

Some questions to ask are:

• How do you structure your supervision sessions?

• Do you focus more on practical guidance or reflective exploration?

• How do you handle topics like ethical dilemmas, workplace stress, or professional development?

  
  

Some of the areas I regularly explore with my supervisees include client consultations, ethical dilemmas, professional identity, vicarious trauma, and mindset work like overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt.

4. Structure of Sessions

It’s important to discuss the logistical aspects of supervision, such as the length, format, and frequency of sessions.

Ask your potential supervisor:

• How long are the sessions, and are they virtual or in-person?

• How often would we meet? Monthly, fortnightly, or as needed?

  
  

For example, in my practice, I offer 50 minute virtual supervision sessions. Existing clients can also book a 30-minute consult for anything urgent that may come up between individual or group supervision sessions.

Make sure your supervisor’s structure aligns with the requirements of your professional body. For instance:

• The OCSWSSW doesn’t specify a minimum number of supervision hours per year for Registered Social Workers.

• The CRPO requires 1 hour of supervision for every 4.5 hours of client contact for qualifying members, with at least 50% in individual or dyadic format.

• The AASW mandates 10 hours of supervision per year to maintain membership.

  
  

5. Fees, Payment, and Cancellation Policies

It’s important to discuss the financial side of supervision, as this will affect your long-term engagement.

Here are key questions to ask:

• What are your fees, and what payment options do you offer?

• What is your cancellation policy?

  
  

I offer flexible payment options, including e-transfer and credit card. Flexibility is a core value of mine, and I strive to accommodate changing schedules while maintaining clear boundaries around last-minute cancellations.

What Next?

If you’re ready to take the next step, feel free to follow me on Instagram @banksia.clinical.supervision to get a sense of my style and approach.

You can also book a free 15-minute consultation to see if working together would be a good fit.

I’m excited to help you thrive and become the best therapist you can be!