A Fair Exchange: The Reciprocal Relationship Between Universities and Clinical Placement Supervisors

Authors

  • Elizabeth A. Sheils Department of Psychology, University of Bath
  • Maria E. Loades DClinPsy, Department of Psychology, University of Bath
  • Andrew R. Medley Macmillan Clinical Psychologist, Department of Oncology, Torbay Hospital
  • Elizabeth M. Marks DClinPsy, Department of Psychology, University of Bath

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18552/ijpblhsc.v4i1.304

Keywords:

belongingness, connectedness, placement, reciprocity, supervision

Abstract

Clinical psychology training in the UK relies heavily upon supervised clinical practice placements. Placement supervisors have a significant responsibility for providing trainees with the learning experiences required for qualification. The role is demanding and whilst the university benefits greatly, it is less clear what supervisors receive in return. This is important when one considers how positive relationships and social action are influenced by reciprocity and a sense of belongingness. Despite its importance, no research has directly explored the relationship between supervisors and the university in a clinical psychology training context. This novel study sought to explore how supervisors perceive their role and their connectedness / belongingness to the university, and whether technology utilized by other areas of pedagogy led to improvements. Access to electronic resources was sent to clinical placement supervisors (n=100). A subset of these (n=7) signed up to complete a semi-structured interview. The interviews were analysed using template analysis. Common themes emerged, including perceived benefits of the supervisor role, such as feeling connected to the training course, despite significant challenges and demands. The provision of electronic resources was found to have the potential to enhance connectedness for all stakeholders. The implications of these findings are discussed.

Author Biographies

Elizabeth A. Sheils, Department of Psychology, University of Bath

Elizabeth Sheils has recently completed an MSc in Health Psychology at the University of Bath. She now works as a research assistant on a number of projects at the university. Her research interests include chronic health conditions, mindfulness and acceptance and commitment therapy. 

Maria E. Loades, DClinPsy, Department of Psychology, University of Bath

Dr Loades is a Clinical Tutor for the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology course. She is a qualified Clinical Psychologist registered with the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC) and an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapists (BABCP). Her research interests include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for children and young people, therapeutic alliance and CBT supervision. 

Andrew R. Medley, Macmillan Clinical Psychologist, Department of Oncology, Torbay Hospital

Dr Medley is a clinical psychologist working in oncology. His research interests focus upon Compassion-focused therapy approaches in the context of cancer and other physical health conditions and compassion in healthcare systems – supporting staff teams.

Elizabeth M. Marks, DClinPsy, Department of Psychology, University of Bath

Dr Marks is a Lecturer and Clinical Tutor on the University of Bath Doctorate in Clinical Psychology course. She is also a qualified chartered Clinical Psychologist working at University College London Hospitals. She is registered with the HCPC and an accredited CBT therapist with BABCP. Her research interests focus on CBT for adults and in the context of chronic physical health conditions, and mindfulness-based approaches. 

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Published

2016-07-15

How to Cite

Sheils, E. A., Loades, M. E., Medley, A. R., & Marks, E. M. (2016). A Fair Exchange: The Reciprocal Relationship Between Universities and Clinical Placement Supervisors. International Journal of Practice-Based Learning in Health and Social Care, 4(1), 28–39. https://doi.org/10.18552/ijpblhsc.v4i1.304

Issue

Vol. 4 No. 1 (2016): International Journal of Practice-based Learning in Health and Social Care

Section

Research Articles

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