 What Is Supervision in Coaching? Coaches are instruments of change, offering support and holding space for their clients. But who does the same for the coach? This is where coaching supervision comes in. Coaching supervision is all about giving coaches a supportive space to reflect, learn, and grow. It’s a time for coaches to review and explore new insights. The supervisor’s role is to help, not judge. They’re there to encourage reflection, creativity, and growth, making sure the coach stays fit for purpose. The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines Supervision as:
“Coaching Supervision is a collaborative learning practice to continually build the capacity of the coach through reflective dialogue for the benefit of both coaches and clients. Coaching Supervision focuses on the development of the coach’s capacity through offering a richer and broader opportunity for support and development. Coaching Supervision creates a safe environment for the coach to share their successes and failures in becoming masterful in the way they work with their clients.” Supervision can happen in one-on-one sessions, group settings, or through observing and providing feedback. In these sessions, coaches can talk about their clients, ethical dilemmas, their own development and even business development. It's a great way to keep learning, stay motivated, and recharge. Why is Coaching Supervision Important? There are many benefits to coaching supervision, for both the coach and their clients. It helps ensure that the coaching practice is professional and ethically sound. By regularly checking in with a supervisor, coaches can become aware of blind spots, challenge their assumptions, and level up their skills. This means better results for clients and a stronger coaching relationship. Plus, supervision offers a safe space for coaches to talk through emotional challenges and get fresh perspectives. It helps prevent burnout and supports the coach’s’ wellbeing. Supervisors also bring in useful tools, frameworks, and insights to enrich the coach’s approach. How is Coaching Supervision Different from Coaching or Mentor Coaching? Coaching, mentor coaching, and coaching supervision all promote personal and professional growth, they have different focuses: Coaching: This is about helping clients achieve their personal or professional goals. The coach facilitates clarity, strategy development, and overcoming obstacles. It’s client-centered and focused on outcomes. Mentor Coaching: This involves giving feedback on specific coaching skills, often in preparation for credentialing through organizations like the International Coaching Federation (ICF). The mentor coach listens to recorded sessions and provides constructive feedback on techniques and core competencies. Coaching Supervision: This is more holistic, covering the coach’s entire practice, client relationships, ethical considerations, emotional responses, and professional development. It’s about reflective learning rather than just skill assessment and takes into account the whole system the coach is operating in, including their interaction with the supervisor. The ICF has recently published core competencies in supervisors. While supervision is not (yet!) required as it is in Europe and some other countries, it supports the idea that supervision is essential for coaches who want to keep growing, uphold ethical standards, and stay resilient and well. It complements coaching and mentor coaching by offering a space for deep reflection, resourcefulness, and renewal. Click here for more information on the Core Competencies in Supervision. Comments are closed.
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