Interprofessional Supervision in Social Work and Psychology: Mandates and (Inter) Professional Relationships

Abstract

Supervision of practicing professionals has grown as a major vehicle for the assurance of clinical competence of health and social services professionals in New Zealand with a consequential increase in the demand for competent supervisors. Interprofessional supervision (IPS) has increased as a means of addressing the gap. The literature suggests there is potential for IPS to improve functioning in multidisciplinary teams and enhance clinical work, but it is relatively under-researched. This article reports on a study of psychologists and social workers (N = 243) practicing IPS. The study explored the rationale for seeking IPS and the perceived advantages and limitations for the supervisor and supervisee alike. Professional mandates may limit IPS but its development as a practice suggests that guidance is needed to ensure it meets the aspirations of its practitioners.

KEYWORDS:

• interprofessional supervision
• psychology
• social work
• supervision

Acknowledgments

The authors wish to acknowledge the assistance of Aqeela Mowjood, a University of Auckland Summer Scholarship recipient, who assisted with data collection for this project.

Notes

Note. These are open responses and some participants made comments coded to more than one theme.

Note. These are open responses and some participants made comments coded to more than one theme.