Exploring the landscapes of external supervision

Abstract

External supervision offers health and social service practitioners opportunities for exploring their work, professional development, and associated relationships. Within a context outside of the workplace, the supervision relationship allegedly supports practice within the workplace. There is a range of understanding within the sectors about the relationship between supervisor and practitioner. This paper explores the potential of closer relationships between agency and supervisor and the subsequent possibilities for greater accountability of the supervision work. Reflecting on our own practice as supervisors both within agencies and external to agencies, this paper invites readers (supervisors and practitioners) to draw on their own supervision experiences. The intention is to critique, challenge, and support critical reflection upon current and potential supervision arrangements for practitioners who participate in supervision that is external to their agencies.