What is Counselor Supervision?

Supervision is an intervention provided by a more senior member of a profession to a more junior member or members of that same profession. A counseling supervisor provides consultation to new therapists. They answer questions, provide guidance, and assist with developing clinical counseling skills. They are ultimately responsible for the well-being of their supervisee’s clients. 

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Our supervisors ascribe to Bernard’s Discrimination Model of supervision. This model is comprised of three separate foci for supervision (i.e., intervention, conceptualization, and personalization) and three possible supervisor roles (i.e., teacher, counselor, and consultant). Allowing the supervisee to develop professionally in multiple areas.

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LPC Supervision

To earn the title of Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia:

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1. The first step in the process is to graduate with your master of counseling degree from a CACREP accredited university. Submit your application to the Virginia Board of Counseling

2. Next, you will need to accrue the 3,400 required hours of supervised experience in a clinical setting with required supervision. 

3. You must pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counselors Examination (NCMHCE). 

4. Notify the Virginia Board of Counseling of your passed exam and completed a residency to receive your Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) title.

CSAC Supervision

To earn the title of Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) in Virginia:

1. Complete the education requirements

2. Apply for and receive Supervision  Approval through the Board of Counseling. *This step is not required, but it is recommended

3. Complete the residency

4. Apply for CSAC by Examination

5. Take and pass the examination offered through NBCC

6. Receive CSAC credential.
    

QMHP Supervision

To earn the title of Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) in Virginia:

1. Complete the education requirements 

2. Apply for and receive Supervision  Approval through the Board of Counseling. *This step is not required, but it is recommended

3. Complete the 1500 hours of supervised experience

4. Receive QMHP credential.

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