As a Social Worker in the process of completing training supervision hours it can be tempting to simply try to accrue hours as quickly as possible. Depending on the state one resides, a Social Worker is likely to spend 100 or more hours in face to face supervision in the pursuit of higher level licensure. As a result, these hours can often become tedious if not prepared for properly. Here are several ideas to make the time spent in supervision more meaningful for both supervisee and supervisor.Discuss Expectations at Initial Meeting
Expectations for content during supervision sessions should be laid out by the supervisor and supervisee during the initial session and supervision contract. This should include type of cases, questions related to workplace dynamics, and other appropriate items for discussion. The supervisee should be given the opportunity during this session to ask any clarifying questions regarding content. Additionally, it should be made clear which party should be identifying content to be discussed. (For more information related to supervision contracts please check out this article: https://besupervised.blogspot.com/2018/09/three-important-reasons-to-have.html
Think About the Session Prior to it Starting
This may sound odd, but many Social Workers do not spend any time prior to a supervision session thinking about what they would like to discuss prior to the start of a session. This can make the supervision hour difficult for both parties. Therefore, a Social Worker should spend at least 30 minutes thinking about what they would like the supervision session to encompass. I.E. client cases, ethical concerns, policy changes, etc...
When in Doubt Research
From time to time a Social Worker may find that they do not have any cases appropriate for discussion, or may simply be struggling for a subject for discussion. When that happens researching current events that affect the profession can be a great choice for topics. Changes in city, state, and even national policies, current political situations, or humanitarian events can all be excellent subjects for research and discussion in supervision. While this may not always be appropriate as supervision should usually encompass concerns related to a Social Workers practice, finding current event topics can be a great way to get the discussion going if finding a subject for an individual session is challenging.
In conclusion, Social Workers should spend at least 30 minutes weekly in preparation for supervision. Appropriate content and expectations for the time spent in supervision should be discussed during the initial supervision session. When Social Workers take time to thoughtfully consider the content they would like to discuss prior to the start of each supervision session it is likely to make the experience far more meaningful for both parties.
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