Welcome to the last episode in our “Peek Behind the Curtain” series, where I’m giving you all the insider details on supervisor training. If you’ve been shopping around for a 40-hour online supervision course, you’ve probably noticed that not all courses are created equal. So, let’s chat about what you should be looking for, what they might not be telling you, and how to make sure you’re getting the most out of your investment.
TCCBB #97: Choosing the Right Online Supervision Course: A Peek Behind the Curtain
Why 40 Hours Really Means 40 Hours
Let’s start with the basics. If a course says it’s 40 hours, it really should be 40 hours. Sounds simple, right? But it’s not always that straightforward.
You see, when you’re taking an online supervision course, it can be tough to figure out if you’re actually getting those 40 hours. Some courses might load you up with videos, while others mix in reading assignments, activities, and even projects that make you think, “How does this all add up?”
Here’s the deal: The boards in Texas, where I’m based, do a great job of making sure courses meet specific criteria. But there’s a catch—they don’t tell us exactly how text or activities translate into hours. That’s where the nitty-gritty details come in.
In my online supervision course, for instance, we stick to the NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors) criteria, which say that 6,000 words of text equals one hour of learning. We also count the time it takes to complete activities, ensuring you’re truly getting 40 hours of quality education.
The Dreaded Video Assignment: Why It’s Actually Amazing
I know, I know—videos can be intimidating. When I was in my master’s program, I dreaded them, too. But let me tell you, in an online supervision course, video assignments are golden. Why? Because they’re the best way for me to actually see you in action.
When the course went fully online, I realized that we needed a way to make sure the person completing the work was the actual license holder. Enter the video assignment! I ask my course participants to record themselves delivering supervision. You can grab a partner, your kiddo, or even someone off-camera to be your “supervisee.”
The goal isn’t to stress you out but to help you connect the dots between what you’ve learned and how you apply it in real-life situations.
And here’s the thing—almost everyone who does this assignment ends up loving it! They start out nervous, but by the end, they’re saying it was the most valuable part of the course. It’s all about getting comfortable with being assertive and recognizing that supervision is different from counseling. So, when you’re shopping for an online supervision course, look for one that includes practical, hands-on assignments like this.
The 90-Day Rule: What You Need to Know
Okay, let’s talk deadlines. Specifically, the 90-day deadline that comes with most online supervision courses. This is super important, especially if you’re in Texas, where our licensing boards require that you finish your course within 90 days. Why 90 days? It’s designed to mirror a semester-long course, ensuring that the material is fresh in your mind and that you’re engaged throughout the process.
Now, here’s where things can get tricky. Some course providers might offer to extend your access if you don’t finish within 90 days—for a price. But let’s be real: If you’re just going to rewatch the same videos or redo the same assignments, are you really learning anything new? And isn’t it a bit unfair for them to profit off of your struggle?
At Kate Walker Training, we take a different approach. Yes, the 90-day rule is firm, but if you own the course, it’s yours to keep. You’ll still get your CE hours, even if you don’t complete the supervision designation. Plus, we update our courses annually, so if you ever need to retake it, you’re getting the latest and greatest information.
How to Choose the Best Online Supervision Course for You
So, how do you choose the right online supervision course? Start by doing a little self-reflection. What’s your learning style? Do you thrive in a face-to-face environment, or are you an online learner who values flexibility? Maybe you need a mix of both—some live interaction and some self-paced study.
Whatever your preference, make sure the course you choose provides a clear syllabus. You should be able to see exactly how each assignment meets the criteria for the required 40 hours. And don’t be afraid to ask questions! A good course provider will be transparent and responsive, ready to walk you through any concerns you might have.
Finally, don’t forget to grab a copy of my Clinical Supervision Survival Guide. It’s packed with resources to help you navigate the supervision process and keep putting excellent therapists out into the world. And stay tuned, because we’re also working on a planner to help you track everything from assignments to supervisee milestones. It’s going to be a game-changer!
Wrapping It Up: What’s Next?
Choosing the right online supervision course is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your postgraduate education. It’s not just about checking a box—it’s about becoming the kind of supervisor who makes a real difference in the lives of your supervisees and their clients. So, take your time, do your research, and choose a course that fits your needs and goals.
Thanks for joining me on this journey behind the scenes of supervisor training certification. I hope you’ve found these insights helpful as you embark on your own path to becoming a badass supervisor. And as always, keep saving the world with excellent therapy!
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