Speak Out August 2020 DIGITAL EDITION

Mentoring & supervision

Securing clinical supervision CLINICAL SUPERVISION IS A CORE PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE THAT HELPS MEMBERS ENGAGE IN REFLECTIVE PRACTICE AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, AND TO OFFER ACCOUNTABLE, COMPETENT SERVICES.

Consistent with our Code of Ethics , the Association recommends that speech pathologists participate in clinical supervision throughout their career. The value that the profession places on supervision is intended to be emphasised and strengthened in upcoming changes to clinical standards. Although the importance of supervision is clear, members sometimes have difficulty finding supervision that is appropriate to their situation and needs. This article will explore some steps speech pathologists can take when seeking clinical supervision. Where do I find a supervisor? A good, first place to start is at work. Speech Pathology Australia’s position is that employers have a responsibility to provide appropriate supervision to employees. Practices benefit by ensuring that their staff feel supported and that they, in turn, are serving clients in a way that meets clinical standards. The receipt and provision of supervision also offers senior clinicians the opportunity for career advancement

and leadership development. If your employer does not currently offer supervision, consider speaking with them about developing a program. The Supervision Standards and The Role and Value of Professional Support documents may be useful in guiding this process. When interviewing for a new job, it is helpful to discuss what professional support is offered and ensure that regular supervision is included in your employment agreement. Sole traders, speech pathologists whose employers do not offer supervision, and practices with limited resources can seek external supervision from someone outside their organisation. External supervision is a contractual relationship with another speech pathologist, in which they provide a professional service and are remunerated for their time. External supervisors set their own rates and, as with any business agreement, terms may be negotiated and should be formalised prior to commencing. SPA maintains an online Supervision Register with various search parameters to help connect

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August 2020 | Speak Out