What does “direct supervision” mean for an MFT intern?

The concept of "direct supervision" for an MFT intern refers specifically to the oversight provided by a licensed supervisor during the intern's practice. This is a critical aspect of the training and development of a Marriage and Family Therapist intern, as it ensures that the intern is applying therapeutic techniques correctly and ethically under close observation.

Direct supervision typically involves regular meetings and review sessions where the supervisor can provide feedback on client sessions, discuss treatment planning, and offer guidance on managing therapeutic challenges. This structured support is essential for the intern’s professional growth, providing them with the experience and competencies needed to eventually practice independently.

The role of a licensed supervisor includes monitoring the intern’s adherence to ethical guidelines and standards of care, ensuring that the treatment provided to clients is appropriate and effective. Supervisors are also responsible for evaluating the intern's performance, which helps maintain the integrity and quality of therapy services offered to clients. This distinguishes direct supervision from other forms of support, such as peer guidance or client feedback, which do not provide the same level of professional oversight and accountability.