About the training
This is a three-day integrated course combining foundation knowledge about sexual violence with specialist learning about ISVA practice.
The course begins by exploring the dynamics and impact of sexual violence and what these mean for clinical supervision. It then applies this learning directly to the ISVA role, including its distinctive responsibilities, boundaries and professional context.
Once this training is full you can be added to an Expressions of Interest list to be offered a space on the next available course.
If you are unable to attend on the dates advertised please complete the Expression of Interest Form. We will let you know when the next dates are announced for this event.
Course Suitability
This course is designed for qualified clinical supervisors who supervise, or are preparing to supervise, ISVA practitioners.
It is suitable for supervisors working independently, within an organisation, as an internal clinical supervisor, or as an external clinical supervisor commissioned by an organisation.
Delegates must:
- be a qualified clinical supervisor
- have completed clinical supervision training recognised by an appropriate professional or accredited body, such as BACP or UKCP
- be working independently or within an organisation
- The course is particularly suitable for experienced clinical supervisors who want to develop the specialist knowledge needed to understand and effectively supervise the ISVA role.
Please note: this course is not a qualification to become a clinical supervisor. Delegates must already have appropriate clinical supervision training and experience.
Learning Objectives
- understand the role of the ISVA and its specific professional context
- understand the purpose and functions of clinical supervision and reflective practice within ISVA work
- identify effective supervisory approaches when working with ISVAs
- understand the particular boundaries, responsibilities and pressures associated with ISVA practice
- recognise the emotional and professional impact of ISVA work
- explore complex cases, professional boundaries and practice dilemmas within supervision
- apply existing clinical supervision skills in ways that are appropriate and relevant to ISVA practice
Outcomes & Benefits
For delegates, this training will support them to:
- understand the role of the ISVA and its specific professional context
- understand the purpose and functions of clinical supervision and reflective practice within ISVA work
- identify effective supervisory approaches when working with ISVAs
- understand the particular boundaries, responsibilities and pressures associated with ISVA practice
- recognise the emotional and professional impact of ISVA work
- explore complex cases, professional boundaries and practice dilemmas within supervision
- apply existing clinical supervision skills in ways that are appropriate and relevant to ISVA practice
The course covers two connected areas of specialist knowledge:
Understanding sexual violence
- the nature and dynamics of sexual violence
- power, control, coercion and shame
- trauma and disclosure
- the impact of sexual violence on victims and survivors
- relational dynamics between practitioners and clients
- transference, countertransference and projection
- professional boundaries
- trauma-informed principles within clinical supervision
- This provides the foundation for understanding the context in which sexual violence practitioners work and the implications for effective supervision.
Understanding the ISVA role:
- the role, remit and professional boundaries of the ISVA
- the distinct nature of ISVA practice and how it differs from therapeutic roles
- advocacy and practical and emotional support
- safeguarding, risk and professional decision-making
- the criminal justice context in which ISVAs work
- multi-agency working
- the emotional and professional impact of supporting victims and survivors through complex systems and processes
- common challenges and dilemmas that may arise within ISVA clinical supervision
- applying clinical supervision skills and approaches to the specific needs of ISVA practitioners
