Why supervision is key for providing excellent therapeutic care

Across the UK, supervision is considered an essential part of ethical and effective therapeutic practice. It serves many purposes and is a valuable tool for therapists and counsellors – which means that, ultimately, it’s of benefit to clients, too.

According to the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), supervision is a “formal process in which a trainee or qualified psychotherapist or psychotherapeutic counsellor presents his or her client work to a designated or chosen supervisor as a way of enhancing practice through careful reflection on the process”[1]. Whilst, to be an accredited member of the BACP, therapists must commit to at least one and a half hours of supervision a month[2].

Supervision ensures that therapists understand and adhere to ethical and professional standards set by bodies including the BACP and the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). It helps them monitor and maintain conduct, confidentiality and accountability – and it also teaches them the skills they need to look after themselves effectively, which in turn benefits service users.

Looking after clients – and therapists

Most therapists share the view that the self-awareness supervision demands enhances working skills and helps to identify areas for personal and professional growth. As well as providing a space to reflect on work, there’s also an opportunity to gain insights into potential biases and blind spots so they can be fixed on time.

The work that allied professionals do can be emotionally demanding. Complex client issues can be encountered and vicarious trauma can be experienced. While it is not considered therapy, supervision provides a confidential space where professionals can process their own responses, discuss problems and receive support. So, as well as promoting better working practices, supervision supports therapists’ professional well-being, too, encouraging a healthy work-life balance.

It's not about policing people – it’s a collaborative process to support ongoing learning and development, offering a platform to discuss challenging cases, learn new techniques or approaches and receive feedback and guidance from experienced professionals.

Protecting all parties

Another way in which therapists can look after themselves, enabling them to take care of their clients more effectively, is by taking out the right professional liability insurance.

Therapists and counsellors have a duty of care towards their clients, and part of fulfilling that duty involves taking appropriate precautions to minimise the risk of harm.

Along with the supervision process, maintaining professional liability insurance is seen as a responsible and ethical practice, demonstrating the therapist's commitment to their clients' well-being. It also helps foster trust and confidence among clients, knowing that their therapist or counsellor has the means to address any potential issues that may arise.

Despite the best intentions and efforts of professionals in this space, there is always a possibility that a client may perceive harm or damage as a result of the process. In such cases, the client may file a legal claim against them, alleging negligence or malpractice. Professional liability insurance provides coverage for legal defence costs, settlements or judgments associated with such claims.

Privacy breaches or claims arising from administrative errors can be additionally covered. By having comprehensive coverage, therapists can mitigate the various risks associated with their profession. Most good brokers will talk through the various options and develop a tailored offer that responds directly to each counsellor or therapist’s professional needs.

Underpinning good practice

Combining good supervision practices with the appropriate professional liability insurance enables practitioners to focus on doing their jobs to the best of their ability. It’s a combination that underpins good practice and reassures clients, enhancing professional reputation.

There is now widespread acceptance that therapy can change lives: a survey from YouGov and the BACP[3] found that 86% of people believe it is better to talk about your problems than take medication.

But the relationship between therapist and client is unique and often emotionally charged, so it is important to take the necessary steps to grow, learn and protect all parties involved.

If you would like to discuss your insurance options, you can talk to an expert at Howden by calling 01924 241945 or emailing [email protected].