5 ways you know your supervisor is competent.

As a counsellor and supervisor with over ten years of experience, I’ve come to recognise what truly great supervision looks like — and, equally, what toxic supervision can feel like. In this short blog, I’ll share five key signs that you’re getting real value for your money from your clinical supervisor.

1. You can be completely honest about your work

Good supervision creates a space where you can bring your whole self — even the uncomfortable parts. You don’t have to hide your thoughts or fears, whether that’s feeling an attraction to a client, struggling to connect, or realising you simply don’t like someone you’re working with. In healthy supervision, these conversations are welcomed without judgement. They’re explored with curiosity and care, allowing you to deepen your understanding of yourself as a practitioner.

2. You leave feeling heard, supported, and with new insight

After a good supervision session, you should feel lighter, clearer, or more grounded — not smaller or deflated. You know your supervisor has truly listened when you walk away feeling both validated and encouraged to think differently. Good supervision helps you see new perspectives and reconnect with your professional confidence.

3. You feel like an equal colleague, not a student

While supervision involves accountability, it should never feel hierarchical. The best supervisory relationships are collaborative, where both people bring something of value to the table. You should feel respected as a professional in your own right, with your experiences, insights, and instincts recognised and valued.

4. You are challenged kindly, not criticised or “told what to do”

Constructive challenge is a key part of supervision — it helps you grow and stretch as a practitioner. But it should always come with kindness and curiosity, not authority or judgement. A good supervisor helps you see blind spots, asks thoughtful questions, and invites reflection rather than dictating the “right” answer.

5. You receive a balance of guidance and space to reflect

Great supervision strikes a balance between direction and autonomy. Sometimes you need clear, practical advice; other times, you simply need space to reflect and find your own way through. Effective supervisors know when to guide and when to step back, supporting you to develop confidence in your own clinical judgement.

If you’re reading this and realising it might be time for a supervision space that feels more supportive, collaborative, and growth-focused — I’d love to hear from you.With over a decade of experience as a counsellor, supervisor, and educator, I offer supervision that’s grounded, reflective, and genuinely human.

Get in touch to explore how we can work together — your supervision should feel like a place where you can bring your whole self and leave feeling stronger for it.