Training Supervisors of Practitioners: Analysis of Efficacy

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article describes and discusses the efficacy of a training program for supervisors of practitioners offered on a yearly basis by the College of St. Catherine/University of St. Thomas School of Social Work Supervision Institute since 1994. Analysis of pre- and post-training data reveals that participants in the program are able to articulate how they benefited from the knowledge and skills they gained. Participants valued having time for consultation with their peers and with the group leaders. A follow-up study documented their continued use of what they learned and their desire for more training and/or support. The authors recommend a three-part program to provide community-focused training for supervisors of practitioners, including basic knowledge and skills in the practice of supervision, providing training on setting specific topics, and adding opportunities for supervisors to develop networks for peer consultation. Ongoing evaluations of training programs for supervisors of practitioners are needed to demonstrate the efficacy of such efforts with supervisees and ultimate outcomes for clients.