Counselor Peer Supervision: A Model and a Challenge

An investigation of genetic counselor experiences in peer group supervision

Peer supervision groups have been studied in counseling fields including psychotherapy and social work. However, limited research exists regarding genetic counselor peer supervision groups. In the present study five major research questions were investigated: (1) How prevalent is peer group supervision among genetic counselors? (2) What motivates genetic counselors to join and continue to seek peer group supervision? (3) What comprises the content, agenda, and structure of group meetings? (4) What are participants' perceptions of group dynamics, including conflicts, cohesion, and leadership? and (5) What are the perceived benefits and limitations of participating in peer group supervision? A total of 214 genetic counselors completed an online survey, and 70 (34.8%) reported being involved currently in peer group supervision. Fifteen of these 70 respondents were interviewed regarding their experiences in peer group supervision. Inductive analysis of their responses yielded 11 domains and 37 categories. Practice implications and research recommendations are discussed.

The role of the psychologist on the drug user treatment team

Current practice in drug user treatment tends to provide, within any one agency, essentially the same treatment for all clients entering that agency. Instead, an agency should use a team approach, with a specific and unique treatment plan for every client, provided by the members of the team. The psychologist should play a central role on this team, being responsible for the treatment plan, for an individual evaluation plan, for assessing progress, for program evaluation, and, in many instances, for supervision of treatment staff. The functions and the different roles played by the psychologist are described, and the characteristics and skills needed for success are listed.