You may have seen the phrase “in clinical supervision” on your therapist’s profile or been told that your therapist discusses their work in supervision. But what does that actually mean? Is it something to be concerned about — or something to feel reassured by? At OPCC, we believe supervision is a core part of ethical, thoughtful, and high-quality therapy.
What Is Clinical Supervision?
Clinical supervision is a professional relationship in which a therapist regularly meets with a more experienced therapist — called a clinical supervisor — to reflect on their work with clients. It’s not about being “checked up on” or “monitored.” It’s about creating space for support, growth, and accountability.
Supervision is required by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) for therapists in training or those registered as RP (Qualifying), and it’s often continued by experienced therapists as part of their ongoing development. At OPCC, all of our student and new graduate therapists are in regular supervision with approved, highly experienced supervisors.
What Happens in Supervision?
In supervision, your therapist may:
- Reflect on how a session went and consider different ways to support your process
- Explore moments that felt emotionally complex or brought up strong reactions
- Think about clinical decisions and ethical questions with the guidance of a seasoned therapist
- Learn more about how their own relational style may be showing up in the work
- Deepen their understanding of patterns, attachment, trauma, and cultural context in your story
Supervision is confidential. Your therapist does not share your full name or identifying details. The focus is on the therapeutic process — not on judging you or evaluating your life.
Why Supervision Matters
Supervision exists to protect and support you, the client. It helps ensure that:
- Your therapist is not working in isolation
- Complex or difficult dynamics are not avoided, but explored with care
- Therapists stay connected to ethical, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive practice
- Your therapist continues to grow — not just in knowledge, but in humility, reflection, and presence
Think of supervision as one more way your therapist is saying: I take your care seriously. I don’t assume I know everything. I want to do this well.
If Your Therapist Is a Student or RP (Qualifying)
If your therapist is a student therapist or is registered as RP (Qualifying), supervision is not just encouraged — it’s required. But that doesn’t mean the care you receive is “less than.” In fact, many clients find that therapists in supervision are:
- Extra attentive and thoughtful
- Actively supported by another experienced clinician
- Committed to relational depth and professional integrity
You benefit from both the therapist sitting with you — and the wisdom of a second professional thinking carefully alongside them.
Supervision Isn’t a Weakness — It’s a Strength
We understand that it can feel vulnerable to know your therapist talks about your sessions with someone else. But at OPCC, we see supervision as a vital part of offering you safe, ethical, and effective care.
It’s a space where your therapist reflects, re-centers, and strengthens their capacity to hold your story with the care it deserves.
A Final Word
Your therapist being in supervision doesn’t mean they’re unsure or inexperienced — it means they are committed to working thoughtfully and responsibly. It means they take the work seriously. It means you matter.
If you have questions about supervision or what it means in your therapy, you’re always welcome to ask. At OPCC, we believe in transparency, collaboration, and care — and that includes helping you feel informed and empowered in the therapeutic process.
Looking for a therapist who will bring care, reflection, and deep support to your sessions? Visit our Get Matched page to take the next step.
Your therapist isn’t working alone — and that’s a good thing.
Supervision ensures that your care is thoughtful, ethical, and well-supported.
Learn more or find a supervised therapist through the OPCC referral directory.
Looking for a clinical supervisor?
OPCC offers psychodynamically oriented, CRPO-recognized supervisors for RP (Qualifying) and RP-level therapists.
Let us find the right match for your professional growth.