What is Reflective Consultation?
Reflective consultation, also known as reflective supervision or reflective practice, is a collaborative process used in various professional fields to support practitioners in their work. It provides a structured framework for individuals or groups to engage in thoughtful and critical exploration of their experiences, challenges, and professional growth.
The primary aim of reflective consultation is to create a safe and supportive space for practitioners to reflect on their work, gain insights, and enhance their practice. It encourages professionals to examine their thoughts, emotions, values, and assumptions in relation to their work and the individuals they serve. This process helps practitioners develop a deeper understanding of their own experiences and the impact of their actions on clients, colleagues, and the overall system.
Reflective consultation typically involves a skilled facilitator, such as a supervisor, mentor, or coach, who guides the process. The facilitator creates an environment of trust and confidentiality, allowing practitioners to freely share their thoughts and feelings. Through open-ended questions, active listening, and empathetic responses, the facilitator encourages self-reflection and exploration of different perspectives.
During reflective consultation, practitioners may discuss specific cases, challenges, ethical dilemmas, or personal experiences related to their work. They are encouraged to examine the underlying dynamics, biases, and assumptions that influence their decision-making and interactions with clients or colleagues. By examining their thoughts and feelings, practitioners can gain new insights, challenge existing beliefs, and consider alternative approaches.
The benefits of reflective consultation include:
1. Enhanced Self-Awareness: Practitioners develop a deeper understanding of their own thoughts, emotions, and reactions, which can help them identify patterns and triggers that may impact their professional practice.
2. Professional Development: Through reflective consultation, practitioners can identify areas for growth, acquire new knowledge and skills, and refine their practice, leading to improved outcomes for clients.
3. Emotional Support: Reflective consultation provides a supportive space where practitioners can express and process their emotions, particularly when dealing with challenging or complex cases.
4. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: The reflective process encourages practitioners to question assumptions, consider different perspectives, and explore creative solutions to problems or dilemmas.
5. Ethical Decision-Making: Reflective consultation enables practitioners to explore ethical issues and challenges, facilitating a deeper understanding of the ethical principles that guide their work and supporting them in making sound decisions.
Josh Carlson, LCSW
Josh Carlson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in IL and the Executive Director of The Knowledge Center at Chaddock. He oversees the training and consultation endeavors TKC offers and is one of the lead trainers and consultants. Josh has provided reflective supervision to outpatient clinicians as well as infant and early childhood mental health consultants.
Josh utilizes a developmental approach to his reflective sessions and supports staff by collaboratively creating a professional development plan. He has a Masters in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Josh is trained and certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) as well as Structured Psychotherapy for Adolescents Responding to Chronic Stress (SPARCS).
What Others are Saying
Susan, LCPC
"I had the privilege of receiving reflective supervision from Josh for three years early in my career. The thoughtful and professional guidance he provided was invaluable in my development as a trauma-informed therapist.
It is critical to consider how we are being impacted by and impacting the people we serve and Josh regularly challenged me to consider these factors. I can truly say that I would not be the therapist I am today without his guidance."
Karen, MSW
“I have grown in my new role with Caregiver Connections tremendously from the reflective supervision received under Josh. Collaboratively we were able to explore the goals and strategic plans for my program focus area and agency practices.
Josh created a safe environment in which to discuss the work and my responses to the challenges of taking on a new role and building a high performing team. His effective leadership has helped to transform our program and culture.
We have been successful in navigating the tides of change with a competent, reflective leader steering the staff.”
Maggie, LCSW
“I have received reflective supervision from Josh for 3 years. In that time we have cultivated a relationship where I feel safe to be vulnerable and think about my work in a reflective, intentional way.
Josh has the ability to help me think about what I bring to my work, and how I want to grow. Josh is a thoughtful, compassionate reflective practitioner who has the ability to hold space with grace, empathy and humor”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a refund if I'm unhappy with my purchase?
TKC does not offer refunds on Reflective Consultation sessions.
How do I schedule my appointment?
Upon purchasing coaching, you'll receive further instructions on how to book a time for your appointment.
Can I purchase coaching more than once?
Absolutely! If you find yourself in need of coaching more than once, simply purchase the coaching again.