Clinical Supervision is a Partnership

What is Clinical Supervision?

Counseling supervision is when an experienced counselor assists a counseling student through their internship. This is done by providing support and advice, answering questions, reviewing students’ work, and guiding them through their professional and personal growth and development. Supervisors assure that students are providing the upmost value and care to their clients.

My Supervision Philosophy

I believe in a transformative approach to supervision. Mindfulness practice is the backdrop of all learning and supports students in creating the space to learn and grow in new ways. The theory I rely on is constructive, and this approach includes embracing the anxiety that accompanies new learning and insights. The approach is person centered and supervision is tailored for each individual based on need. 

The goal is to support students as they make meaning of their work as a counselor. Additionally, joining supervisees/students in the process of transformation is key to growth and development. The process is about discovery and embracing the out of balance state required to learn new skills. Supervision is a partnership between the student and the supervisor. This is built on trust and sincere caring throughout the process.

Infusing Creativity

Creativity defines my approach to supervision. Creative mindfulness exercises are incorporated into all aspects of supervision. Painting, drawing, writing poetry, literature, and body work are infused throughout the process to aid in discovery. Fully engaging the heart and the right brain helps students to move away from overthinking and into a state of being. This is essential for effective counseling.

Actions/Practices to Support Counselors in Training

• Provide a safe space in the group supervision experience for learning
• Provide practical strategies and tools as needed
• Virtual observations
• Reviewing tapes
• Using intentional questions to assist the student in developing insight
• Creating multiple opportunities for reflection
• Frequent communication

Loyola’s Master’s in School Counseling Program

• Student-centered
• Strong relationships between students and professors
• Rigorous
• Strong focus on developing clinical competency
• Aligned with national and state standards
• Courses aligned with current reality (not outdated always evolving)
• CACREP-accredited 
• Instructional practices are engaging and experiential
• Courses offered in a blended format (combination of online and face to face) for a high-quality experience
• Professors are committed to student growth and development
• We CARE about our students
• Our students are hired frequently---strong reputation with school districts
• Many offerings for post-graduate studies

Dr. Gayle Cicero is a clinical assistant professor in the Master's of School Counseling program at Loyola University Maryland. She has 30 years of experience working in public education in Maryland as a teacher, school counselor, pupil personnel worker, school administrator, supervisor of school counseling, and director of student services. Her special areas of interest include: trauma, ethics, clinical supervision, online teaching and counseling, systems and organizational change, and mindfulness.