Supervision from an Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) Framework

Live Online Workshop

Capability levels: Evolving and Established

Contextual behavioural science, known to many social workers through the therapy model of ACT, has a supervision model – SHAPE. SHAPE was developed by two Australian psychologists – Dr Linda Nicholson and Dr Eric Morris. Toni Hanna has completed a SHAPE trial with social workers, in liaison with Dr Nicholson.

The outcome of the trial has shown that SHAPE can be a highly effective approach for social workers to experience a renewed sense of connection to their work, commitment to their careers, identify areas for professional growth, and dive more deeply into the meaning and purpose their social role has for them.

This workshop has been developed from the findings of the trial, specifically for the social work context. SHAPE is highly compatible with the social work reflexive approach and is easily integrated into existing supervisory practices. This course will cover the five elements of the SHAPE model and provide opportunities to gain knowledge and skills in its application to social work practice.

Participants will engage in interactive activities, case studies, and group discussions that will enhance their learning experience. This course is designed for supervisors looking to enhance their practice and increase satisfaction for both themselves and their supervisees. By completing this course, social workers will be better equipped to support and guide their colleagues in the field, from a values-based model.

SHAPE can be applied to a wide range of supervision issues such as dissatisfaction, conflict, burnout, career changes, as well as clinical and leadership challenges. It assists in helping social workers to re-ignite their passion and provides the foundation for a highly satisfying supervisory relationship.

Who should attend? This workshop is suitable for Social Workers with prior training and experience in supervision. It builds on current social work supervisory standards and practices; and assumes knowledge about professional responsibilities and risk management in supervision. It is suitable for supervisors in private practice, in small agencies and larger organisations.

Note: This workshop will not be recorded.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this program, participants will be able to:

• Understand the five components of the SHAPE model and how they increase psychological flexibility in the supervisory relationship.
• Explore the application of a psychological model to a social work setting, including integrating social work core values with the broader contextual approach of CBS.
• Enhancing a safe space in which your supervisees can grow and learn, by using values to promote honesty and openness.
• How to use mindfulness in the supervisory session to enhance engagement in reflection and reduce avoidance.
• Recognising and addressing common themes in supervision – including imposter syndrome, contextual insensitivity, workplace stress and conflict, and burnout.

AASW Credential: Supervision