If you’ve just learned that your therapist has a supervisor, you may be wondering what this means for your therapy, your confidentiality, and your progress. Understanding the role of clinical supervision can help you feel more confident in your sessions and the care you’re receiving.

Therapist supervision is a normal part of the professional journey for many therapists. Knowing more about how supervision works can help you feel more comfortable and informed as a client.

What is clinical supervision?

Clinical supervision is a process where a therapist meets regularly with a supervisor, who is typically another therapist with more experience. They may meet to review cases, discuss treatment strategies, work through ethical questions, and strengthen their clinical skills.

For newer therapists, supervision is often required to meet licensure requirements. They must complete a certain number of hours of supervised experience before they can practice independently. Even seasoned therapists, though, may engage in supervision or consultation. They may seek supervision to:

  • Learn new therapeutic techniques or treatment modalities
  • Work through ethical or professional questions
  • Practice intervention strategies

Is my therapy still confidential?

If your therapist has a supervisor, your therapy sessions will remain private and confidential. Your therapist’s supervisor will not be in the therapy room with you, and your conversations will not be recorded.

When your therapist discusses cases with their supervisor, confidentiality is maintained. Supervisors are bound by the same ethical standard of confidentiality. This means that anything discussed between your therapist and their supervisor stays between them. Information will not be disclosed to anyone else unless there is a risk of danger to yourself or others.

If you have concerns about your therapist discussing aspects of your therapy in supervision, you’re encouraged to discuss this with your therapist. Open communication can help you feel more comfortable and engaged in your therapy.

Benefits of seeing a therapist who is under supervision

Therapist supervision can bring many benefits to clients, including:

  • Fresh perspectives: Supervisors can offer a different perspective, which can lead to deeper insights and more creative interpretations and interventions.
  • Accountability: Therapists under supervision are held accountable to implement evidence-based interventions, uphold ethical standards, and more.
  • Professional development: Ongoing supervision encourages therapists to continue learning and improving, which can benefit the quality of care you receive.

Additionally, clinical supervision is highly sought after, and therapists pay their supervisors for their valuable input and guidance. Therapists cover the cost of their supervision at no added expense to their clients.

Takeaway

Therapist supervision is a professional practice designed to strengthen therapists’ skills, enhance their ability to support clients, and maintain ethical, high-quality care.

If your therapist has a supervisor, your therapy remains confidential. You may even experience benefits from the added perspective supervision provides. If you’re curious, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Understanding the process can help you feel more secure and confident in your therapy journey.