Focus and process in supervision

Key dimensions of the supervisory process are not fully articulated in the literature or in the practice of supervision. Three particular areas are identified: the purpose of supervision, the importance of the supervisory relationship, and the development of competence. In relation to purpose, it is suggested that a superordinate focus should be on the 'quality of service' to the client. The supervisory relationship is discussed in terms of a process which unfolds over time through a series of stages. The challenge of defining competence is reviewed within a framework of developing 'reflective practitioners'.