ABSTRACT
In a field that is largely based on experiential learning, it seems only natural that the professionally inclined would want to seek further depth and understanding of themselves and the way in which they work. However, the coaching and mentoring community is still quite divided about the role of supervision in achieving that fuller understanding. This chapter explores the seeming resistance to supervision at a time when there seems to be increased complexity in coaching and mentoring assignments as well as more sophisticated client awareness.
This chapter examines the differences between peer and professional supervision: what makes peer and professional supervision different and who can provide ‘professional’ supervision. The chapter explores why professional supervision may be important at various junctures of your career or during an engagement. We outline opportunities to use both professional and peer supervision as complementary development options and offer suggestions in choosing a professional supervisor, signpost what issues to look out for and what specific issues may be better suited to take to professional supervision. This chapter aims to educate practitioners on how to use peer and professional supervision appropriately for their unique needs.
