Where to start with Supervision - part 1
What should you look for in a Supervisor?
The right Supervisor will help you grow, not only as a professional but as a person. When choosing a Supervisor, here’s what to keep in mind:
1. Creates a Comfortable and Safe Environment
A great Supervisor helps you feel at ease with the supervision process. This is a space for vulnerability, so you should feel comfortable sharing your experiences, challenges, and successes.
2. Encourages Open Communication
A good Supervisor welcomes feedback from you. The relationship should be collaborative, with your input guiding how the supervision process unfolds. You should feel empowered to express what works for you and what doesn’t.
3. Helps You Clarify Your Objectives
Supervision should help you gain clarity about your professional goals and challenges. A strong Supervisor will help you set clear, actionable objectives that move your work forward
4. Encourages New Perspectives
Supervision isn’t just about reflecting on your work; it’s about broadening your perspective. Look for a Supervisor who encourages you to think outside the box and challenges you to consider new ways of relating to others in your pastoral practice.
5. Fosters Active Involvement
The best supervisory relationships are those where you feel involved and engaged in the process. Your Supervisor should help you take ownership of your growth and development.
Questions to Ask Yourself About Your Supervisor
Finding a Supervisor who is a good fit is crucial. Here are some self-reflective questions to help guide your assessment:
Do I feel empowered to discuss both the successes and failures in my professional practice?
Do I feel respected by my Supervisor? Do I respect my Supervisor?
Is the supervision process both challenging and edifying?
Can I openly present ethical dilemmas or uncertainties without fear of judgment?
If you can answer "yes" to these questions, it’s a strong indicator that you're in a healthy and productive supervisory relationship.
