Secrets of supervision--a trainee's perspective

Abstract

Discusses the training of psychiatrists under weekly supervision from their educational supervisors. After having worked as a senior house officer (SHO) in psychiatry, I have finally come to realize the roles and expectations of supervision. My first supervision session as a doctor was with a local consultant working in a psychiatric ward. I remember being asked what I would like from my allocated hour and stating having never experienced supervision before. Four supervision sessions later, we went out to the pub and that evening all the components of supervision were covered. One of the major drawbacks of being an SHO is moving to a different job every 6 months. Mutual trust is required for a supervision to be effective. I would like to recommend certain points to a new psychiatric SHO. At the initial meeting, take control. Always classify your goals. Short-term objectives could include learning about the speciality. Medium-term goals could include how best to prepare for the Part I exam, perhaps including practice of multiple choice questions (MCQs) with your consultant. Long-term goals to consider would be tips on passing the Part II exam. It is crucial for you as well as your consultant to be on time for your supervision session. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)