From Graduate School to Practice

by Dr. Sara Sue Schaeffer

                        The end of graduate school marks an important transition. As newly-trained counselors move from the familiarity of the University to the world of professional practice, supervision forms an important bridge. Change itself is stressful. Newly-learned skills will be put to the test. New relationships and new support systems must be formed. It soon becomes clear that while formal education might have been accomplished, the learning process definitely continues.  Let us help you with that important decision.  

       Finding that first job is one of the initial challenges. Interviews need to be a two-way process so that in addition to being evaluated, the applicant also evaluates the job. For example: Is it in your area of interest? Will it give you an opportunity to use the skills you have developed as well as to develop new skills? Will your supervisor also be able to provide the supervision needed for your full license? If not, is your employer supportive of your requirement to practice under the supervision of a trained LPC? If your employer cannot provide it for you, will you be afforded the time and/or financial support to accomplish your required supervision.

                      Finding a supervisor who can also be a mentor is a key part of the transition from school to professional life. Graduate school likely provided mentors. New graduates must seek out mentors for themselves, and successful professionals usually point to a number of mentors who have been influential in shaping their  careers. New counselors should not be shy about asking seasoned professionals to mentor them. Chances are these professionals will be flattered and very willing to do so.

            Peer support is also important for the new professional. Sharing experiences and getting feedback from others who are in the same stage of professional development is invaluable. Sometimes this opportunity is available in a work setting and sometimes not. Group supervision is an excellent way to meet the need for interaction with and support from peers.   The Mentoring Institute offers services designed to meet the need of the new professionals.  Let us support you! 

            New professionals are often amazed by how much they still have to learn. No matter how good a graduate training program is, it can’t possible prepare the new professional for every situation and challenge. Supervision is an excellent tool for filling in the gaps. This is also the time to develop a life-long habit of seeking continuing education, whether it is required to maintain your credentials of not.

            With time, practice, patience, good supervision and mentoring, and peer support, confidence begins to develop. Recently, a supervisee brought her supervision group up to date on a difficult client who had been the topic of a number of case reviews. She was amazed that finally a good deal of progress was being made and wondered why. She was even more amazed by the assessment of her group and supervisor: She had gained confidence in herself and in return her client had gained confidence in her!