Clinical Supervision: A Space to Grow, Reflect, and Feel Supported
- Justine
- Sep 10
- 3 min read
As therapists, we know the work we do is a unique privilege. We hold space for our clients’ most vulnerable experiences, and it is a role that is both deeply rewarding and uniquely demanding. To do this work ethically and sustainably, clinical supervision isn't just a guideline—it's our anchor. It is the professional and personal space where we can process, reflect, and ensure we are offering the very best to our clients, while also taking care of ourselves.
My journey into supervision felt like a natural progression after years of practice. I wanted to create the kind of supportive, collaborative space I value so much myself, especially for those navigating the complexities of trauma work and private practice.
What are the BACP Supervision Guidelines?
For any counsellor, understanding the ethical framework is key. A common question I'm asked is about the required frequency of supervision.
As a baseline, the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) recommends a minimum of 1.5 hours of supervision per month for accredited practitioners.
However, this is just a starting point. The true amount of supervision you need should be a dynamic conversation between you and your supervisor, taking into account your level of experience, the size of your caseload, and the complexity of the client work you are undertaking. For example, a newly qualified therapist or someone working extensively with complex trauma may find bi-weekly sessions more supportive.
My Approach: A Collaborative Space for Growth
I believe supervision should be a validating and reinforcing experience—a space where you feel safe enough to bring your challenges, your successes, and uncertainties without fear of judgement. It’s a place to be curious about your work and its impact on you.
My approach is built on a relational and trauma-informed foundation, with a particular focus on:
Holding Space for You: Deep and meaningful client work inevitably brings up our own triggers. Just as we hold space for our clients, supervision is the space for us to process what has been activated, ensuring we can show up with compassion for ourselves and, in turn, for them.
Developing an Ethical Practice: We'll work together to explore the unconscious biases and beliefs that can get in the way of providing a truly non-judgemental space. It's about holding ourselves to account and managing our own 'stuff' ethically and respectfully.
Gaining New Perspectives: I see supervision as the therapist's space to step back and view the client's story from a distance, rather than being submerged in the narrative. It offers a chance to hear a different interpretation and unlock new insights.
Who This Supervision Is For?
While my approach is trauma-informed, my specialist areas of supervisory experience are with:
School Counsellors Having been a school counsellor for many years, I understand the dynamic workspace extremely well. It is a challenge and a privilege to work in schools, and I am very much aware that school counselling can bring up challenges unlike any other work setting. I am able to bring years of hands-on experience to our supervision sessions.
Neurodivergent Therapists I am also very experienced in working with clients and supervisees who are neurodivergent. As someone that has personal experience of ADHD, I can tailor our sessions to meet your brain where it best suits you.
Often, bi-weekly shorter sessions work best for my neurodivergent therapists.
That flexibility, hopefully, shows my respect for the individual supervisee and the challenges we face to capitalise on our work, our strengths, and of course, our challenges.
I also offer supervision for Newly Qualified Counsellors finding their feet and Therapists in Private Practice navigating the rewards of being their own boss.
Please note: While I am an EMDR practitioner, I am not yet qualified to supervise EMDR work specifically.
Flexible Support to Suit Your Needs
The beauty of modern practice is its flexibility. While I am based in Buckinghamshire and can offer in-person supervision sessions, the majority of my supervision work is conducted online. This allows me to connect with and support therapists and counsellors from across the UK, from London to Manchester and beyond.
We can find a rhythm and format that works for you and your practice.
Let's Connect
Finding the right supervisor is a deeply personal and important decision. It’s about finding a professional connection where you feel both supported and stretched to grow.
If my approach resonates with you, I invite you to take the next step.
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