Clinical Supervision: What New Professionals Need to Know

For emerging counselors, supervision is the bridge between academic learning and confident, ethical clinical practice. It’s more than a box to check on the path to licensure—it’s an essential space to deepen your identity as a therapist.

If you're an intern, a recent graduate, or pursuing your LMHC in Rhode Island, here’s what you should know.

1. Supervision Is More Than Case Review

While clinical cases will likely be a central focus, quality supervision also explores your development as a professional:

• How are you managing emotional fatigue?

• Are your interventions guided by theory or instinct?

• What values guide your work?

  
  

Great supervision weaves in both technical competence and personal reflection, helping you grow in both skill and self-awareness.

2. Know Rhode Island Requirements

In Rhode Island, LMHC licensure requires:

• 60 graduate credit hours from an approved counseling or counseling-related program

• 2,000 post-master’s supervised direct clinical hours, including 100 hours of face-to-face clinical supervision from an Approved Clinical Supervisor (in no less than 2 years)

• Passing the NCMHCE; individuals will receive permission to register for the NCMHCE after they've applied for licensure

  
  

Pro tip: Keep detailed logs of your hours, supervisors, and session topics. Use a spreadsheet or a tracking app to stay organized and ready for audit.

3. Choose a Supervisor Who Aligns with Your Goals

Not all supervisors are the same. Look for someone who:

• Understands your preferred theoretical orientation (e.g., ACT, CBT, psychodynamic)

• Supports your growth without micromanaging

• Models humility and self-reflection

  
  

Interview your supervisor before committing—ask about their supervision style, availability, and how they approach issues like burnout or boundary setting.

4. Supervision Is a Learning Relationship

Come prepared with:

• Questions from sessions

• Ethical dilemmas you’re navigating

• Themes that are “sticking” with you emotionally

  
  

Use supervision to expand—not defend—your understanding. It’s okay to not know. Growth comes from exploration.

5. Supervision Evolves Into Mentorship

The best supervision often leads to a mentoring relationship that continues beyond your required hours. You may find that your supervisor becomes a trusted professional ally, collaborator, or referral source.

Final Thought

Supervision is a rare opportunity for structured, supported growth. Show up curious, be honest, and allow yourself to be shaped by the experience. The investment will pay dividends throughout your career.