How to Pick the Right Clinical Supervisor for Provisionally Licensed Counselors in Missouri
Starting your career as a Provisionally Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC) is an exciting step in your journey to becoming a fully-licensed clinician. Finding the right clinical supervisor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during this time. This blog will provide guidance on how to select a clinical supervisor, outline specific requirements for Missouri provisionally-licensed therapists, and highlight best practices to ensure your clinical growth and successful career.
Why Choosing the Right Clinical Supervisor Matters
The supervisory relationship is foundational to your development as a mental health professional. A qualified clinical supervisor not only helps you gain the clinical hours and supervision hours required for full licensure but also fosters your clinical skills, personal growth, and professional development. Selecting a good clinical supervisor ensures that your training aligns with ethical standards of practice and meets Missouri’s state regulations for licensure.
Key Considerations When Selecting a Clinical Supervisor
Credentials and Experience
Ensure your prospective clinical supervisor is a board-approved supervisor in Missouri. They should hold an active license in good standing, such as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or a licensed professional counselor (LPC).
Look for supervisors with years of experience in clinical practice and a strong background in areas like family therapy, case management, or clinical psychology. Supervisors with formal training in supervision techniques often provide a higher quality of services.
Specialization and Practice Areas
Consider supervisors who specialize in your field of interest, such as family therapy or clinical social work. Their expertise will be invaluable as you develop therapeutic skills tailored to your future clinical work.
For new graduates interested in private practice, finding a supervisor with experience in professional practice and the business side of counseling services can be a great idea.
Supervision Style
Ask about the supervisor’s approach to individual supervision and group supervision. A collaborative relationship that encourages feedback, discussion, and reflection is crucial for clinical growth.
Some provisionally-licensed clinicians thrive in supervision groups where they can learn from fellow therapists. Others may prefer one-on-one sessions to address specific challenges in their practice of mental health counseling.
Logistical Considerations
Verify the geographic area where supervision will occur. Missouri has a mix of urban and rural regions, so proximity to your supervisor’s office or the availability of face-to-face supervision might impact your decision.
Evaluate additional costs, such as fees for supervision hours, and consider whether the investment aligns with your budget.
Check whether the supervisor offers an online platform for remote supervision, which can be particularly beneficial if you’re in a less accessible area of Missouri.
State-Specific Requirements
Missouri’s licensure requirements include specific hours of post-master’s supervision. Be sure your supervisor is familiar with these requirements and can guide you through the process.
Confirm their ability to sign off on your clinical hours and supervision hours to meet the board’s criteria for a provisional licensee.
Steps to Finding Your Clinical Supervisor in Missouri
Start with Online Directories
Use online directories to search for board-approved supervisors in Missouri. Look for supervisors with strong credentials and positive reviews from clinical supervisee candidates.
Local organizations, such as the Missouri chapter of the American Counseling Association or the Missouri Society for Clinical Social Work, often have listings of supervisors.
Network with Fellow Therapists
Reach out to fellow therapists and faculty members from your graduate school or school of social work. They often have connections to experienced supervisors in your area.
Attend professional development opportunities, such as workshops and conferences, to meet potential supervisors.
Conduct license verifications through the Missouri licensing board to ensure your prospective supervisor is in good standing.
Ask for an official transcript of their supervisory training or documentation of their supervisory experience, if applicable.
Prepare questions about their supervision style, availability, and expectations for provisionally-licensed clinicians.
Request their phone number and contact information for follow-up discussions.
Evaluate the Best Fit
Choose a supervisor who aligns with your career goals, therapeutic approach, and preferred supervision setting—whether in a group setting or individual supervision.
The right clinical supervisor will be someone you trust to support your professional and personal growth.
Understanding Missouri’s Licensure Requirements for Provisionally-Licensed Therapists
To transition from a provisional licensee to a fully-licensed clinician in Missouri, you must complete:
Clinical Hours: A minimum number of clinical hours (typically 3,000) under supervision.
Supervision Hours: Regular, documented hours of supervision with a board-approved supervisor.
Educational Requirements: A graduate degree from an accredited program, such as a master’s degree in counseling, clinical psychology, or social work.
Background Checks: Clear criminal and professional background checks.
Formal Training: Completion of specific training requirements outlined by Missouri’s state regulations.
Benefits of Group Supervision vs. Individual Supervision
Group Supervision
Provides a supportive community where provisionally-licensed psychotherapists can share experiences and challenges.
Offers diverse perspectives on case management and therapeutic skills.
Encourages collaborative relationships among clinical supervisees.
Individual Supervision
Focuses on your unique needs as a clinical supervisee.
Allows for in-depth exploration of specific cases and therapeutic approaches.
Builds a strong supervisory relationship with your LPC supervisor.
Local Opportunities for Clinical Supervisees in Missouri
Missouri is home to many experienced mental health professionals who offer quality clinical supervision. If you’re in Kansas City, Missouri, and its surrounding areas, gokc is an excellent option for provisionally-licensed clinicians seeking supervision. We provide supervision groups, individual supervision, and training to help you develop the clinical skills necessary for a successful career.
gokc offers:
Tailored Supervision Plans: Customized to meet the specific requirements of provisional licensees.
Experienced Supervisors: Licensed clinical social workers and LPC supervisors with years of supervisory experience.
Convenient Locations: Serving Kansas City and nearby geographical areas.
Supportive Environment: Focused on fostering clinical growth and personal development.
Let’s Chat about Your Future
Are you a provisionally-licensed therapist in Missouri looking for the right clinical supervisor? GoKC can help you navigate the path to full licensure while building your therapeutic skills and professional practice.
Apply now to join our team of mental health professionals! Let us support your journey to becoming a fully-licensed clinician and achieving your career goals.
Choosing the right clinical supervisor is an important decision that sets the foundation for your future in the helping profession. With careful consideration, thorough research, and guidance from experienced supervisors, you can build a solid framework for your successful career in the mental health professions. Start your journey today and take the next step toward full licensure with confidence.
What others are saying about Aaron as a Supervisor:
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RDH
Aaron intentionally dedicates his career to walk alongside clients in their therapeutic journey. His approach is intricately woven with heartfelt validation, integrity, levity, and an evolving curiosity of the human experience. You've found an advocate!
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, LPC, CIT
As his supervisee, I often leave conversations with Aaron feeling inspired and motivated. He accepts what is, brings much needed humor to the conversation, and encourages & is curious about possibilities. I highly recommend working with Aaron!
Christin Trott - Être Counseling Kc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Aaron has been a long-time colleague and supervisor. He is a great listener and a wonderful balance of encouraging, compassionate, insightful, and fun. I would definitely recommend Aaron as a therapist and supervisor!
Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S, NCC
Aaron is a fantastic clinician. I supervised him for many years when he was starting his career as a counselor. He is very knowledgeable, down to earth, and has a wealth of experience. He is very easy to talk to.
Aaron is knowledgeable, patient, compassionate, approachable, and warm. Clients can rest assured knowing that they are in good hands and on the right path with Aaron.
Aaron was my supervisor and I couldn't recommend him enough! I have ADHD and so it's hard for me to sit still, ESPECIALLY after I've been sitting all day for work. So for our sessions, we went for walks outside which was amazing for me! I definitely miss it now that I'm done with supervision. He's warm, supportive, and always willing to help! Highly recommend! -Karrah Wood, LPC & Owner of Wildflower Psychological Services
Supportive, empathic, insightful, highly knowledgeable, and fosters all the right conditions for growth. 10/10 recommend!
-Katie Kalahurka Burnett, LPC & Owner of Limelight Counseling
I am a counselor in the KC metro area, and while I have not been a client of Aaron's for therapy he was my supervisor as I pursued my license to practice. In this aspect he was helpful in my growth as a counselor and practitioner. I would expect that he would be a good individual therapist for any concerns that you may be facing. He has a good understanding of trauma work and techniques as well as an extensive and diverse background in counseling.
-Nick Jordan, LPC & Owner of NJordan Counseling
