Speak Out Feb 2020 DIGITAL EDITION. pdf

Training in clinical supervision Reaching your potential to help others reach theirs

Mentoring & supervision

C linical supervision is fundamental to speech pathology practice. It helps us to “maintain professional standards” and “extend our professional knowledge and skills” (see The Role and Value of Professional Support ). Although the value of professional support and clinical supervision has long been expressed in our Code of Ethics and CBOS standards, upcoming revisions to these documents will reiterate or even enhance our responsibilities in this area. Sometimes speech pathologists are confronted with the expectation that their ability to offer a clinical service implies an ability to supervise others in that area. It’s helpful to recall that clinical supervision is a learned skill. We often need support to develop an understanding of instructional and feedback methods, and to guide others through processes like reflective practice. Recognising the importance of training in this area, the Association recommends that those wishing to supervise undertake a course in the provision of supervision. Speech Pathology Australia is aware of a variety of training programs that may help members develop their clinical supervision skills. These include a variety of formats and costs. Here are a few options from providers in Australia: The Delta Centre Professional and Clinical Supervision Workshops Monash University Supervision Workshops for HHS Workers Queensland Health Supervisor Online Training Queensland Health Supervisor Workshop The University of Melbourne Clinical Supervision Online

Additionally, many universities that offer courses in allied health professions offer training in clinical supervision. Please note: The Association does not endorse any specific course and cannot verify the quality of instruction or content offered. Members should discuss course details with the provider to determine whether it will meet their individual learning needs. SPA's Supervision Standards can serve as a guide to identify the skills speech pathologists should develop in order to offer quality supervision. Mentoring may also be a useful way to develop supervision skills. SPA members can connect with mentors experienced in this area through the Association’s Find a Mentor feature and performing a search for Teaching > Clinical Education > Clinical Supervision. The Association considers clinical supervision training a priority and is currently developing Continuing Professional Development in this area. Planned support includes establishing Communities of Practice in which participants can interact and learn from one another under the guidance of an experienced preceptor. Members who have questions about offering supervision or receiving appropriate training in this space are invited to contact SPA’s professional support advisor at psa@ speechpathologyaustralia.org.au. Nathan Cornish-Raley Professional Support Advisor

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February 2020 www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au

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