So you’re looking around for a potential supervisor online. You find a couple you like, reach out and request an interview. Key Note: when I say interview, I mean you are the interviewer, they are the interviewee. So now that we’re clear, this blog will help steer your questions in the most productive direction.
Chances are you’ve read some other blog somewhere and you came up with list that sounds something like:
- What are your credentials?
- How long have you been licensed?
- What is your academic background?
- Has your licensed ever been revoked by a state board?
- What types of setting have your worked in?
While these might seem like important questions to ask, DON’T. These questions are asking about professional accolades and accomplishments- but remember, we’re in the real world now, NOT academia. I know, weird right? Everything inside of you is going to want to lean towards professionalism, rigidity and academia. But trust me, now is the time to see whether you’re going to be a good fit together. Think about who you are as a person and answer these questions:
- How do my friends and family describe my personality? (ex: silly, extrovert, loyal)
- Where do I see my career in 7 years? (ex: in private practice treating couples)
- What type of population would I like to know more about? (ex: combat vets)
- What is my schedule like (work, family, other obligations)? (work Monday- Friday 8-5pm- no flexibility)
- What are my professional strengths? (ex: asking for help, working independently)
- What are the things I kinda suck at professionally? (ex: organization, keeping things in order)
- How do I best learn? (ex: being shown; watching other people)
Then thing about questions to ask your supervisor along these lines. I’ve had loads of supervision interviews, and here are a few of my favorite questions:
- How would you describe your personality in three different words?
- My family and friends describe my personality as X, Y and Z- would you say we will be complimentary of one another?
- I would really like to own a private practice one day, how can you support me towards that goal?
- I have a true interest in learning more about combat veterans, what is your experience with this?
- What populations would you say you know most about treating?
- What hours and days do you have available to supervise me?
- How many other interns do you supervise?
- I prefer a ______ approach to learning- does your supervision style showcase this? If so, how?
- How much do you charge and how is payment made?
- How do you structure supervision time?
- What are some ways that I can stay in touch with you when I’m not in supervision?
- What expectations do you have of me as your associate?
- If your job as a supervisor to me was successful, and you felt our relationship was fulfilled, how would we know?
Hope these questions help! Remember, you are in the driver’s seat, so make sure you’re taking the lead and asking questions to help you determine if you and the supervisor are complimentary not only professionally, but personally.
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