Navigating Clinical Supervision in Counselling: Insights with Kate Fonda on Supporting Therapist Growth and Self-Care

Welcome to Real Talk. My name is Becky Stone, and this is a space where we remove the filters and dive into conversations that matter. Let’s be honest. Life can feel like a roller coaster some days, and we all have moments where our brains feel like they’ve gone off script, whether it’s anxiety or ADHD. Having a party when you’re trying to focus, it’s time to stop tiptoeing around these topics. Let’s break the silence and smash the stigma together. Today, we have Kate joining us, a counselling psychologist specializing in psychosexual therapy, and she is deeply involved in counselling clinical supervision. As a supervisor and a counsellor, her expertise supports therapists near Hinckley, Kendal, and Knowle, as well as trainees seeking supervision training in the UK. Kate, thank you for being here today! Kate: Thank you for inviting me, Becky. I’ve been in this field for over 15 years, balancing roles such as counselling supervisor and psychotherapist. My journey began from a background in mental health and education, which led me to provide vital therapy supervision contracts and engage with counsellors across various placements, from London to Manchester and Birmingham. Becky: It’s inspiring to hear how your career path evolved. How does clinical supervision support the work of a counsellor? Kate: Clinical supervision is essential for both the counsellor and their clients. It ensures therapists remain reflective, maintain boundaries, and provide the highest quality care. Whether you’re a CBT therapist or counselling psychologist, supervision in clinical psychology and therapeutic supervision is key for growth and managing professional challenges. Becky: Absolutely. Supervision isn’t just an industry standard; it’s an invaluable aspect of professional development. From my own experience working as a therapist in Tunbridge Wells and online, having supportive supervision has enriched my practice immensely. Kate: I couldn’t agree more. For new therapists working in schools or counselling placements near areas like Leeds or Bristol, having a supervisor matching their style and needs is crucial. Supervision should be a nurturing process that addresses their responsibilities, enhances their skills, and builds resilience. Becky: That balance between guidance and challenge is what makes clinical supervision so impactful. For those considering counselling supervision training in the UK or seeking to understand the difference between a counsellor and a clinical psychologist, it’s vital to know that supervision plays a major role in shaping effective therapists. Kate: Precisely. And for anyone navigating counselling psychology vs. clinical psychology, supervision is where theoretical knowledge meets practical application, offering therapists a safe space to explore complex client interactions. Becky: Kate, as a tutor and supervisor, what advice would you give to counsellors looking for their first supervision experience? Kate: Shop around. Whether you’re a trainee in London or a practising counsellor in Harrogate or Sheffield, finding the right supervision fit is important. Look for someone who will support, challenge, and help you grow. Trust your instincts; this is someone who will be in your corner when the going gets tough. Becky: Excellent advice, Kate. Clinical supervision is a cornerstone of practical therapy work, enhancing the skills of counsellors and therapists alike. Thank you for joining us on Real Talk, where conversations like these help build communities and tear down stigma. If you’re a counsellor, therapist, or supervisor navigating these aspects of your career, remember seek support, stay curious, and trust your process.