Clinical Supervision: A Competency-Based Approach » (1st Edition)

Falender and Shafranske (both psychology, Pepperdine U.) present a resource text for mental health professionals currently providing supervision in academic, training, and treatment situations, and for students and practitioners studying supervision research for the first time. The authors critically examine the theoretical and empirical literature and present a competency-based model of clinical supervision. Coverage includes effective practices in supervision, technical competence, personal factors, the therapeutic and supervisory alliance, diversity competence, ethical and legal responsibilities and case management, and evaluation. Annotation © 2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

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Reviewer:Gary B Kaniuk, Psy.D.(Cermak Health Services)
Description:This book is intended to provide a thorough understanding of the supervision process, from theory to practice. It is written to help psychologists train psychology externs and interns, though other disciplines would benefit from this material as well.
Purpose:According to the authors, "the chapters in this volume are organized around topics we consider to be foundational to supervision practice: effective practices in supervision, technical competence, personal factors, the therapeutic and supervisory alliance, diversity competence, ethical and legal responsibilities and case management and evaluation. We conclude with a discussion of the existing challenges and opportunities that must be addressed to advance the practice of clinical supervision." (p. 34) These are worthy objectives that the book meets.
Audience:According to the authors, "although this volume is written primarily for the field of professional psychology, the competency-based model that is presented could readily be applied to any of the allied mental health professions, psychiatry, social work, counseling, and so forth." (p. 35) I agree. Professionals and students alike will gain important knowledge from this book. The authors are credible authorities. Dr. Falender has been involved in training for over 20 years at APA (American Psychological Association) approved mental health programs. She also received an award from the California Psychological Association as "Outstanding Supervisor of the Year." Dr. Shafranske is the director of the doctoral program in clinical psychology at Pepperdine University. He has been the president of APA's Division 36 (Psychology of Religion) and a member of the Council of Representatives.
Features:The book begins with theories of clinical supervision and then covers specific elements involved in working with trainees including addressing personal factors, supervisory alliance, ethical and legal perspectives, and evaluation of the supervisory process. The authors have made this book very readable and practical. It appears that all the critical factors of supervision are addressed here. The appendixes are wonderful, containing contracts and inventories which objectify the process. Their competency-based approach is extremely helpful and they provide the rationale: "A competency-based approach, however, provides an explicit framework and method to initiate, develop, implement, and evaluate the processes and outcomes of supervision." (p. 20) This book challenges me, as a supervisor, to consider my work with trainees in a new and refreshing way.
Assessment:This is a classic book in the area of clinical supervision. I have read other books and articles on the topic but this one puts it all together in one volume. It is challenging and considers all the important elements. It is a great book for anyone invested in the training of psychology externs and interns, from the novice to the seasoned veteran. You won't be disappointed by this book and the concepts will be relevant for years to come.