All formal supervision sessions should be recorded via supervision notes. It is the responsibility of the supervisor to ensure supervision notes are kept. The supervisor and supervisee can negotiate who will write and maintain supervision notes with the option of this being a shared responsibility. However, supervision notes should be transparent and made available to the supervisee, so that both the supervisor and supervisee can author and agree to the record.
Taking notes during supervision should not detract from being fully present and engaged with the supervisee. This is reportedly a constant challenge. Just as with casework practice, which focuses on engagement, use key words to document what was covered.
Confidentiality and privacy during supervision is important, except where legislation requires otherwise. Supervisors must ensure they maintain the privacy and confidentiality of their supervisees and peers. During supervision, clients’ confidentiality should also be maintained.
Case material should be de-identified, unless the client provides written, informed consent or through agreement with the supervisor in accordance with legislation or organisational policies.[1]
For more details about confidentiality, refer to the AASW Supervision standards 2014.
Reference
[1] AASW, Supervision standards.
Updated