Texas LPC-Associates: Set yourself up for success!
Texas LPC-Associates
You've made it this far! Graduation is a huge accomplishment and one that deserves celebration! It's also the beginning of a new journey of being mentored as you work to complete your 3,000 hours. It can seem daunting... so many hours, more time, and more money. I get it. We all just want to get "there." What is that for you? What are your aspirations in the field of counseling? Whatever you are shooting for, a rock-solid Supervisor is a must. You deserve to be mentored in a way that respects the efforts you've put forth thus far.
Why did I become a Supervisor?
Upon graduating with my master's degree, I faced poor supervision in an unethical environment and found little guidance from the seasoned therapists around me. That led me to seek supervision outside of my workplace. In doing so, I was blessed to find a kind expert that taught me the clinical and business skills that grad schools overlook. She also welcomed my questions with warmth and grace, and helped me discover how to meld my professional self with who I naturally am. These experiences drive my passion to mentor new counselors. I aim to support Associates in becoming skilled, professional, and ethical clinicians.
What does supervision with Anna look like?
The relationship between an LPC-Associate and a Supervisor is just that - a relationship. This requires some like-minded goals, values, and lots of communication. So before we enter into this relationship we'll make sure we're a good match! Just like I'm not the best counselor for every client, I'm also not the best Supervisor for every LPC-Associate. We'll walk through some interview questions to determine whether or not we want to move forward.
To be clear, a great mentor is not someone attempting to clone themself, but rather someone investing in uncovering and encouraging the person (and counselor) you were made to be. What this looks like practically is weekly virtual meetings, and access to me at all times outside of those meetings. I answer my phone when you call and I return emails and text messages promptly. I do what I say I'll do, and I am committed to providing guidance in all areas of the field of counseling. I care deeply about those that I supervise. I want you to find success in all areas of your life and learn how to live out the priorities you speak aloud.
Weekly meetings for 3,000 hours... that's a lot of meetings!
Yes it is! But there is so much to cover. In our time together I will teach you the following, in addition to much, much more:
>The fundamentals of professionalism
>Overcoming stigmas about our profession
>Clinical training and supervision
>How to properly market yourself
>How to find a job
>Business startup guidance including forms, tax IDs, business plans, and more
>Liability Insurance necessities
>HIPAA compliance
>Chapter 611: Release of Records
>Managing your profession and your personal life
>Maintaining self-care and soul-care
A special note to counselors in rural communities
Counseling in a rural community is an area I hold exceptional knowledge in. I opened my first practice in a town of about 2,500 people that did not have much in the way of mental health services prior to my arrival. I quickly learned that all of the black and white boundaries we are taught in school turn to GRAY in a small town! There are endless, unique situations that take special care and consideration when working in such an environment.
If you find yourself practicing in a rural community, I urge you to consider those gray areas when choosing a Supervisor. It is vital to work with someone that has been there and knows firsthand the complexities of the job.