Introduction

Many qualified counsellors reach a point in their professional journey where they consider training as a clinical supervisor. Whether this is driven by career progression, service requirements, or a desire to support other practitioners, becoming a clinical supervisor carries significant responsibility.

In the UK, clinical supervision is a core component of ethical counselling practice. This article outlines how counsellors become clinical supervisors, what training is expected, and whether a clinical supervision qualification is required.

 

Do counsellors need a qualification to become a clinical supervisor?

While there is no single legal requirement governing clinical supervision in the UK, most professional bodies and organisations expect supervisors to have completed formal clinical supervision training.

Many employers, placement providers, and agencies require:

• A recognised clinical supervision qualification

• Training at Level 6 or above

• Evidence of supervised supervision practice

Undertaking a clinical supervision qualification supports counsellors to practise safely, ethically, and competently in supervisory roles.

 

What training is expected for clinical supervisors?

Clinical supervision training typically covers:

• Supervision theory and models

• Ethical and professional responsibilities

• Power dynamics and boundary management

• Reflective and evaluative supervision practice

• Safeguarding and accountability in supervision

At CB Counsellor training, we pride ourselves in going above and beyond the expectations of standard clinical supervision trainings for counsellors with a particular focus, and extensive resources on equality, diveristy and inclusion, as well as vital templates to use in your practic such as a clinical will template.

 

Can clinical supervision training be completed online?

Yes. Many counsellors now complete online clinical supervision qualifications. Online delivery allows experienced practitioners to access high-quality training while continuing in clinical work.

 

Reputable online supervision training includes:

• Live teaching sessions

• Interactive discussion

• Structured assessment

• Clear learning outcomes

At CB Counsellor training, we provide our learners with all of the above, with courses delivered in a flippd learning style, allowing you to learn the theory at your own pace and put that learning into practice in real time during the live teaching days. 

 

When should a counsellor consider supervision training?

Counsellors often consider becoming clinical supervisors when they:

• Have substantial post-qualification experience

• Are supporting trainees or newly qualified practitioners

• Are asked to supervise in organisational or placement settings

• Want to formalise existing informal supervision work

 

Completing a clinical supervision qualification ensures this transition is made responsibly. 

 

Choosing the right clinical supervision qualification

When selecting supervision training, counsellors should consider:

 

• Course level (typically Level 6)

• Eligibility requirements

• Whether the course is designed specifically for counsellors

• Online vs face-to-face delivery, and how this fits into their existing commitments

• Assessment and support structures

 

A well-designed clinical supervision qualification balances theory, practice, and reflection. For more advice on choosing a course, click here.

 

Final thoughts

Becoming a clinical supervisor is a meaningful professional step. Completing appropriate clinical supervision training supports ethical practice and protects both supervisors and supervisees.

If you are a qualified counsellor considering supervision training, a structured clinical supervision qualification can provide the confidence and competence needed to work safely in supervisory roles.

You can find out more about our Level 6 Clinical Supervision Qualification for Counsellors (Online, UK) here. We would love to have you!