Health coaching is filled with both rewarding moments and challenges. Supervision is essential to support you through all of these, offering a reflective space to enhance your practice and to promote your growth as a coach. Attending your very first supervision session may feel a bit daunting, so here are some key questions to consider asking in your first session to ensure you make the most of this valuable opportunity.
- What is the Purpose of Supervision?
Understanding the role of supervision is crucial. Either connect with your supervisor beforehand or start your session by asking your supervisor to clarify the main objectives of supervision. This will help you align your expectations and gain a clear understanding of how supervision will support your growth as a coach.
- How do sessions work?
Supervision can cover a wide range of topics, from case management and ethical dilemmas to personal development and emotional resilience. Supervisors each have their own style and preferred way of working, although a good supervisor will adjust their way of working to suit their supervisees.
- How Can I Best Prepare for Supervision?
Preparation is key to making the most of your supervision sessions and will help you understand what you should bring to each session. Your supervisor might suggest bringing reflections, case notes, client feedback, or specific challenges you’re facing. Good preparation is essential for you to ensure that each session is productive and relevant to your coaching practice.
- Can We Discuss Specific Cases?
If you have particular clients or situations that are challenging, it’s important to ask if these can be discussed during supervision. Sharing specific cases allows you to gain tailored advice and feedback, helping you address the nuances of your practice more effectively. Be ready with examples that illustrate the issues you’re encountering. In a one-to-one session a supervisor will be able to focus on what is important to you, however, in a group session if there is a specific topic or case you want to think about it is helpful to let the supervisor know so they can adapt the plan for the session.
- What feedback do you have on my coaching practice?
Constructive feedback is one of the most valuable aspects of supervision. Don’t hesitate to ask for specific feedback on your coaching techniques, communication style, or any other aspect of your practice. This question will open the door for your supervisor to provide targeted feedback that can enhance your practice.
- What other thoughts do you have that I might have missed?
One of the most useful things about supervision is having another viewpoint of a situation which allows you to discover any potential ‘blind spots’. A supervisor will take a helicopter-view of the situation and help raise your awareness of things you may not have considered, for example, ethical considerations, relationship dynamics, or another aspect of a situation.
- How can I continue to develop as a coach?
Supervision is not just about addressing immediate challenges but also about long-term growth. Ask your supervisor to help you set specific goals for your ongoing professional development. These goals can provide direction and motivation as you continue to grow as a health coach.
And enjoy!
Supervision is a collaborative process designed to help you reflect, learn, and improve—so take this opportunity to explore, ask, and engage fully in the experience. As with many things, the more you put into your supervision sessions, the more you will gain. With good questions and preparation, your supervision sessions will become an enjoyable cornerstone of your coaching practice.