Supervision is a core part of fulfilling our role as clinical psychologists, both for those newly qualified and for those with more experience. It provides an essential opportunity to gain support with the cases we are working with, consider our career development, and reflect meaningfully on our work as psychologists.

While the fundamental themes of supervision remain consistent across experience levels, the focus naturally shifts depending on the stage of a psychologist’s career. Good supervision should be flexible and responsive to this.

Supervision for Newly Qualified Psychologists

For newly qualified psychologists, supervision tends to be more frequent to allow for closer oversight of the clinical work. This enables the psychologist to receive more direct guidance on individual cases and regular support across most of their caseload. As a result, they can build competence across a wide range of areas while their supervisor maintains detailed clinical oversight.

At this stage, supervision often focuses on developing clinical skills and tools, deepening understanding of psychological models, and identifying areas for CPD to support the work being undertaken. 

Supervision is also a key space to support the transition into the role of becoming a qualified psychologist from being a trainee. This often includes reflection on what it means to be a clinical psychologist and adjusting to the identity, responsibilities, and expectations that come with this new stage in the professional journey.

Supervision for Experienced Psychologists

In contrast, supervision for more experienced psychologists often adopts a broader lens. Supervision will focus on fewer cases, allowing for exploration of complex or unfamiliar presentations in more depth. More experienced psychologists might also bring cases where they are trying to develop their skills in areas with which they are less familiar.

Reflection remains a crucial part of supervision at this stage, though it may centre more on advanced or systemic issues. These might include developing leadership roles, managing service-level challenges, or taking a wider perspective on psychological provision. Supervision can also serve as a space to reflect on sustaining a long-term career in the field. This includes considering how to maintain professional fulfilment, prevent burnout, and ensure the role continues to align with personal and professional values.

In Summary

Although there is considerable overlap in the content of supervision across experience levels, the focus should be tailored to the psychologist’s stage of career, confidence, and specific developmental needs.

It is essential to find a supervisor who can adapt their approach to meet these evolving needs—someone who can provide the right balance of support, challenge, and reflection to help you grow, stay grounded, and thrive in your role as a clinical psychologist.

-Dr Elene Robson

www.thefamilypsychologypractice.co.uk