Professional & Clinical Supervision Counselling

Breathe Counselling is proud to be able to contribute to the professional journey of counsellors throughout Australia through Clinical Supervision.

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What is Professional Supervision?

Professional Supervision is a structured process where Registered Counsellors engage with trained supervisors to reflect on their work. This process supports counsellors to develop their skills, adhere to ethical practices, and maintain mental health. It’s mandatory for all practising members of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and PACFA and can be facilitated through various forms, such as one-on-one, peer, and group supervision.

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Supervision Requirements by ACA and PACFA

ACA and PACFA mandate that all practising members complete at least 10 hours of supervision annually. This equates to roughly one hour of supervision for every 20 hours of client interaction. Supervision can be conducted face-to-face or remotely, via phone or online, accommodating those in remote locations.

What is Involved in Professional Supervision?

Supervision aims to enhance the effectiveness of counsellor-client interactions. It involves regular sessions where supervisors and supervisees discuss counselling cases, focusing on encounter outcomes, professional development, administration, and providing emotional support to the supervisee. The sessions are essential for ensuring quality practice and preventing issues such as burnout and compassion fatigue.

Professional & Clinical Supervision Counsellors

FAQs - Professional & Clinical Supervision Counselling

Who Needs a Professional Supervisor? +
All registered practising counsellors, professionals dealing with crises in their roles, and anyone who finds it beneficial should undertake supervision.
How Often Do You Need to Have Professional Supervision? +
The industry standard suggests one hour of supervision per 20 client contact hours, typically recommending weekly sessions for those with a full-time caseload.
Who is Not a Professional Supervisor? +
Individuals without appropriate supervisory qualifications or those merely holding seniority do not qualify as professional supervisors.
What Should a Supervision Session Consist Of? +
Sessions should address the professional development and emotional wellbeing of the counsellor. Evaluation of counselling sessions, continuous education, administrative support, and emotional backing are all key aspects.
Is Supervision Mandatory? +
Yes, supervision is mandatory for maintaining peak body registration and is a critical element of professional practice. It should be part of employment contracts for practising members.
Where Do I Find a Supervisor? +
A list of ACA-registered supervisors can be found on the ACA's official website under the College of Supervisors.
Do I Have to Do Face-to-Face Supervision? +
Not necessarily. Supervision can be conducted via phone or online platforms, allowing flexibility for those in remote or rural areas.
What are the Supervisor’s Responsibilities? +
Supervisors must guide the professional development of supervisees while safeguarding the wellbeing of clients. Their guidance extends beyond supervision sessions and encompasses nurturing effective practices among counsellors.
What are the Counsellor’s (Supervisee) Responsibilities? +
Counsellors are responsible for implementing agreed-upon strategies from supervision, avoiding unethical practices, and ensuring continuous professional growth.