Supervision is seen as a vital source of support for all practitioners. As a new practitioner it is a way to gain skills and confidence. As you will note there are new rules regarding all new members receiving supervision (2 per year for 3 years) in the rules section. (Rule 4.7)
All members of PACT are encouraged to get regular supervision. The insight of another, person non-judgementally holding us whilst we explore our vulnerability is an invaluable resource for our Health. The nature of this supervision may change after the first 3 years according to need.
Whilst new members are required to engage with supervisors accredited with PACT or sister organisation (CSTA, BCTA/NA), established practitioners may explore counselling or psychotherapy as a means to gain greater insight. Self-exploration through meditation, retreats, receiving sessions etc are all not considered supervision however valuable they may be.
Supervision is when a therapist uses the services of another more experienced and qualified therapist to review their work with clients. Supervision is a professional service, which encourages the therapist in the process of self-awareness and facilitates self-learning. This results in ongoing professionalism and the best outcomes for both the therapist and their clients. The supervisor, in this relationship, acts as a consultant.
Supervision exists to protect clients, to improve the abilities of the therapist and to support the therapist. It helps to reduce the risks of oversights and helps the therapist to reflect on their own feelings, thoughts, behaviours and general approach with clients.
Supervision can also help the newly graduated therapist to feel less isolated and to gain understandings on how to grow their practice.
New members joining PACT are required to undertake 2 sessions per year in the first 3 years of membership.
The benefits of receiving ongoing supervision cannot be understated. PACT encourages all members to engage with supervision throughout their professional lives.
Supervision sessions are generally one hour long.
You will find a list of PACT approved supervisors on the PACT website. You can also find supervisors who are listed with our sister organisations (CSTA, BCTA/NA).
After your first 3 year cycle of membership you may also engage in supervision with a supervisor or therapist working in the trauma or shadow fields such as psychotherapists and counsellors. If in doubt please email registrar@bcst.info
Face to face supervision is not necessary, it is fine to Skype (or other online video conference) or speak with your supervisor on the phone. Supervisors may also offer group supervision sessions which members may prefer.
No, but there are benefits of building a long-term relationship with your supervisor, however we understand that sometimes it may be useful to engage with another supervisor.
Yes, sessions are strictly confidential. The content of a supervision session is not disclosed to PACT. However in exceptional circumstances, where the supervisor has reason to believe that the welfare of a client, the therapist or any third party is seriously at risk, the supervisor has a duty to seek advice in confidence from the Association’s Chairperson.
(These ten points are taken from, Hawkins and Shohet ‘Supervision in the helping professions’, OUP 1990).
Practitioners apply to the Chair of the PACT Committee with details of their training, qualifications and postgraduate experience. Applications are then considered by the Committee.
PACT supervisors are all registered Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapists. They must have at least five years clinical experience. They are required to have been PACT members for at least three years.
Yes, if they are PACT approved or accredited training school approved supervisors. However we do encourage therapists to connect with other supervisors to experience an alternative approach.
No, a treatment session for yourself is not counted as supervision. However members who need assistance with contact skills who are able to treat a supervisor and gain feedback can count this as supervision session.
Generally the cost of supervision is the same as you would pay for a BCST Treatment with that practitioner. Costs do vary, so please ask your supervisor for their current fees.
PACT supervisors have been asked to supply a receipt or written confirmation of your supervision to you. Please upload this to your CPD records before renewing your membership so that your application can be processed without delay.
If you have any further questions please email the Registrar