Group supervision provides provisional psychologists with unique opportunities to connect with and learn from their professional peers. It enables a collaborative and reflective space where psychology interns can share thoughts and experiences on clinical issues and cases.
An experienced facilitator guides group supervision. It is designed to challenge and support provisional psychologists in their journey towards Board registration.
The COPP Program
Provisional psychologists who are enrolled at COPP can book into monthly group supervision sessions. These run for two hours and are facilitated by a network of Board-approved supervisors.
Preparation is key
It’s important that you prepare for group supervision. Take the time to bring along questions and notes on experiences that you would like to share with the group. Remember, this is a learning experience for the whole group, and each person needs to participate.
We recommend allowing 20 – 30 minutes of preparation time before each group session. Depending on your case, you may need more or less time.
Group supervision at COPP
Group supervision sessions at the College run to a common structure. However, each of our Board-approved Supervisors will bring their own unique style and approach to the group. Our supervisors have different professional backgrounds, interests, and areas of expertise. For example, some groups will be intern-led, where participants will determine the group's focus, sharing ideas and helping each other peer-to-peer.
Other groups may be more facilitator-led, with the Supervisor providing direct advice and guidance on the topics and cases presented in the session. Some groups will be quite structured, following an agenda. Others may be more organic, allowing the discussion to take form over the session based on the participants' needs.
Find out what approach works best for you
It is a useful experience to try different Group Supervision styles and reflect upon what approach is a good fit for you. Understanding how you learn best is the first step towards getting the most out of your internship. We encourage you to book group supervision sessions with different Supervisors to find a group that feels right for you.
Beware of professional development in disguise
If you are enrolled in a group supervision program outside of COPP, it is important to be cautious of supervision sessions that are just professional development in disguise. If you are enrolled in a group session that focuses on a single topic presented by a facilitator, it may be professional development and, therefore, cannot be counted towards your supervision hours -even if a board-approved supervisor presents it!
What's next?
Talk to us today to find out about our comprehensive Psychologist Registration Programs, including our 5+1 program and our bespoke 4+2 completion program.
