Supervision & Mentoring
for coaches, facilitators and trainers
Supervision is well known in the ‘people professions’ as a highly effective way of learning, growing and supporting yourself in your practice – whether it is coaching, counselling, consulting, facilitating, training, social work or health.
Coaches, trainers and facilitators are increasingly recognising not only the benefits, but also their responsibility as professionals to be in a self-reflective process where they can examine their work, address challenges, maintain well-being and identify learning needs.
Those of us lucky enough to have excellent supervision, will recognise that we do not want to practise without the high-quality feedback, mentorship, challenge and learning that it provides.
- What is supervision
- Why have a supervisor?
- Outcomes
- How does supervision work?
- Group or one-to-one supervision?
What is supervision?
Although supervision is well known in the helping professions, to those from other backgrounds it can be misunderstood, perhaps because of the name. It is not hierarchical and does not involve evaluation, monitoring or direct education.
It is an equal supportive relationship that provides a safe and non-judgmental environment for a practitioner to explore their professional life and any work-related issues. This process of support and growth will maintain your well-being, add to your personal development, increase your inner resources and ensure high quality in your professional life.
Why have a supervisor?
Supervision raises awareness of, and provides support with, frequently arising practice issues that we all encounter. For example:
- boundaries
- isolation
- multiple roles
- contracts and agreements
- ethics and confidentiality
- endings
- dealing with money
Through supervision, especially in a group, you can build supportive relationships with your supervisor/mentor and fellow supervisees.
Having this reflective support develops highly competent and responsible practice, increases the effectiveness and satisfaction of both client and coach, builds confidence, grows you as a coach; it also protects you, your clients & grows the profession.
Outcomes
Through facilitated, supportive and non-judgemental dialogue you will be able to
- maintain your wellbeing, enthusiasm and inspiration
- examine and broaden your interventions
- become more aware of limits and blind spots
- expand your versatility, confidence and presence
- increase your understanding of the dynamics between coach and client – by examining your own reactions and responses and widen comprehension of the dynamics of workplace/team/family/organisations
- have the vital emotional support needed when working intensely and empathetically with clients – some of whom will be troubled or going through difficult
- maintain clarity and presence
- build emotional resilience
How does supervision work?
Supervision is available individually and in small groups, so do talk to Sally about your requirements.
It is important that sessions are regular; the frequency depending in part on the amount and intensity of the work you do.
It is recommended that from the very start of your coaching practice you don’t have very long gaps between sessions, as supervision can help build your practice and confidence. Sessions are available face-to-face or via telephone and Skype. Groups are now happening online via Zoom.
Group or one-to-one supervision?
An advantage of group supervision is the richness of hearing other coaches’ experience and having their input, as well as that of the supervisor. We learn from others and can often be reassured to discover that our colleagues are encountering similar issues. This prevents isolation and builds a supportive network and a small, well-facilitated group will soon develop warmth, trust and safety.
In one-to-one sessions there is more time and it might feel easier to open up and work more deeply.
Get in touch to explore what is practical and preferable to you.