Clinical Supervision Models for Non-specialist Providers Delivering Psychotherapy: A Qualitative Analysis

Abstract

Trained non-specialist providers (NSPs), with no formal degree in mental healthcare, can deliver effective psychotherapies for task-sharing. Clinical supervision is important in this process to facilitate quality-assured psychotherapy. We explored three group supervision models within a large, multi-site trial that leveraged NSPs to deliver a brief psychotherapy. In-depth, semi-structured interviews with NSPs (n = 15) explored facilitators and barriers of group supervision models in a stepwise approach, that progressed from expert-led to peer-led, with monthly measurement-based supervision throughout. A focus group on measurement-based supervision was also conducted with clinical experts who provided supervision (n = 4). Qualitative data were analyzed using content and thematic analysis. In expert-led supervision, perceived facilitators among NSPs (n = 15) included educational and professional development (n = 14/15, 93.33%), emotional support (n = 11/15, 77.33%), and expert advice in specific delivery techniques (n = 4/15, 26.67%). A barrier was scheduling (n = 6/15, 40.00%). In peer-led supervision, perceived facilitators among participating NSPs (n = 12) included learning opportunities with peers from diverse backgrounds (n = 10/12, 83.33%), fostering peer connections (n = 9/12, 75.00%), and professional growth (n = 6/12, 50.00%). Barriers included reduced structure (n = 6/12, 50.00%) and attendance (n = 3/12, 25.00%). In measurement-based supervision, reported facilitators included listening to peer's audio-recorded sessions (n = 14/15, 93.33%), receiving and providing feedback (n = 13/15, 86.67%), and the supervision model's structure and tools (n = 5/15, 33.33%). Barriers included low self-ratings (n = 12/15, 80.00%) and initial uncertainty on how to provide constructive feedback (n = 6/15, 40.00%). These facilitators and barriers were also reported by the clinical experts (n = 4). Our results highlight the need to produce clear and concrete guidelines to facilitate peer-led and measurement-based supervision, which will support the implementation of task-sharing.

Keywords: Clinical supervision; Measurement-based supervision; Non-traditional mental health providers; Peer supervision; Psychotherapy; Task-sharing.