Frequently Asked Questions About Counselling Supervision in Leeds & Otley.

 

What is counselling supervision?

 

Counselling supervision is a collaborative professional relationship that provides a dedicated space to reflect on your client work, celebrate strengths, explore challenges and think carefully about ethical and clinical practice. Supervision isn't simply about oversight; it's an opportunity to nurture both your clients' wellbeing and your own development as a therapist.

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Who do you offer supervision to?

 

Rachel & Liz offer supervision to:

• Trainee counsellors

• Newly qualified therapists

• Experienced counsellors and psychotherapists

• Therapists working in private practice

• Therapists working within organisations

• Practitioners supporting children and young people

• Professionals seeking a reflective and compassionate supervisory relationship

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If you're unsure whether my approach would suit your work, please feel free to get in touch for an informal conversation.

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What is your approach to supervision?

 

Liz & Rachel's approach is compassionate, collaborative and curious.

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Aiming to create a space where you can bring your uncertainties as well as your successes. Together, we'll think about your client work through a relational, trauma-informed and neuro-affirming lens whilst holding ethical responsibilities, professional standards and your own wellbeing in mind.

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Supervision with Liz or Rachel is not about judgement or criticism. It is about thoughtful exploration, shared reflection and supporting you to grow in confidence and authenticity as a practitioner.

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What theoretical approaches do you supervise?

 

Liz & Rachel both work Integratively with a strong person centred base and welcome therapists from a variety of theoretical backgrounds.

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Rather than expecting you to fit a rigid model, supervision focuses on understanding your way of working, your clients' needs and how we can think creatively and ethically together.

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If you're unsure whether your modality would be a good fit, please get in touch to discuss this further.

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Do you supervise trainee counsellors?

 

Yes.

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Liz & Rachel both enjoy supporting trainee counsellors as they develop their professional identity, integrate theory into practice and navigate the emotional realities of beginning therapeutic work.

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Supervision can provide a safe base from which to explore uncertainty, celebrate growth and build confidence in your clinical judgement.

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How often should I attend supervision?

 

The frequency of supervision depends on several factors, including:

• The requirements of your training course

• Professional body guidance

• The number of client hours you undertake

• The complexity of your work

• Your own professional needs

 

We can think together about what arrangement feels most appropriate for your practice.

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Do you offer online supervision?

 

Yes.

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Supervision is available:

• Face-to-face in Leeds and Otley

• Online throughout the UK via secure video platforms

• By telephone if appropriate

 

This flexibility allows you to access support in a way that best suits your circumstances.

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What can I bring to supervision?

 

You are welcome to bring:

• Client work

• Ethical dilemmas

• Safeguarding concerns

• Risk assessments

• Relational dynamics

• Feelings of stuckness

• Clinical uncertainty

• Confidence struggles

• Imposter feelings

• The impact of the work on you personally

• Professional development goals

• Questions about private practice

• Celebrations and successes

 

Bring anything you want to explore and we can work out together if it feels right for supervision, therapy or you need to seek further understanding from perhaps another organisation.

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What if I'm worried about being judged?

 

Many therapists worry that supervision means having to prove themselves or fear being criticised if they don't have all the answers.

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Our hope is that supervision feels different, nurturing and curious rather than challenging or critical.

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We believe the most meaningful reflection happens when people feel safe enough to be honest about uncertainty, mistakes and vulnerability.

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You do not need to arrive with everything figured out.  As Supervisors we may not have the answers but we will be able to reach out to our supervisor or direct you to others who would have further information.  Our aim as Supervisors is to work together as a team to explore options.  No one has it all figured out.

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Curiosity and openness are far more valuable than perfection.

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How long are supervision sessions?

 

Supervision sessions are tailored to meet your needs and professional requirements.

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We can discuss the most suitable format during our initial conversation, whether you require individual supervision, more frequent support during training or ongoing supervision for established practice.

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Can supervision support me if I'm newly qualified?

 

Absolutely.

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The transition from trainee to qualified practitioner can bring excitement alongside self-doubt, increased responsibility and practical questions about developing your professional identity.

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Supervision can offer a steady and supportive space to navigate this stage of your career with greater confidence and self-compassion.

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How much does counselling supervision cost?

 

Please get in touch to discuss current supervision fees and availability.

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We offer a free initial conversation so that we can explore whether we feel like a good fit and whether my approach aligns with your hopes and needs for supervision.

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How do I know if we're a good fit?

 

The supervisory relationship is incredibly important.

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Liz & Rachel encourage you to trust your instincts and ask any questions you may have before committing to ongoing work together.

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Finding a supervisor who helps you feel supported, curiously and thoughtfully explores aspects with you and enables you to bring your authentic self into the room can make a significant difference to your development and enjoyment of the work.

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Liz & Rachel would be delighted to have an initial conversation with you to explore whether working together feels right.