Choosing the Right Supervisor: Questions Before You Commit

Finding the right supervisor fit is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as an LMFT Associate. Here’s how to choose someone who supports—not stifles—your growth.

1. What is your supervision style?

Some supervisors are highly structured, offering agendas, worksheets, and clear assignments. Others are more relational and intuitive, allowing space to process cases and identity development more organically. Some are a combination of both!

Why it matters: You’ll want to know if their style supports your learning. If you’re someone who thrives with reflection and collaboration, a more rigid, top-down approach might not be the right fit (and vice versa).

2. What kinds of clients do you have experience with?

Look for alignment between their background and your goals. For example, if you’re interested in working with eating disorders, trauma, couples, or children, does this supervisor have relevant training or experience?

Why it matters: You want someone who can help you navigate the challenges specific to the work you’re doing or want to do.

3. What are your expectations for associates outside of supervision sessions?

Some supervisors expect progress notes, session recordings, or case conceptualizations to be sent prior to the weekly supervisory meeting. Others may simply expect you to show up ready to talk.

Why it matters: Understanding expectations upfront sets you up for clarity—not conflict—down the road.

4. How do you support therapist identity development?

A good supervisor helps you become more yourself as a therapist, not try to mold you into a carbon copy of them. Ask how they help supervisees find their own voice, theoretical orientation, and boundaries.

Why it matters: The right supervisor won’t just teach you skills, they’ll empower you to practice in a way that feels authentic and sustainable.

5. How do you handle mistakes or clinical uncertainty in supervision?

No associate is perfect. You will mess up. You will feel stuck. You will say the “wrong” thing. You want to know: Will this person meet me with curiosity and compassion, or criticism and shame?

Why it matters: A supervision relationship built on safety and nonjudgment is essential for real growth. You also need a supervisor who is able to effectively navigate inevitable relational tears and repairs. The tears aren’t the issue - if they don’t know how to initiate effective repairs, that becomes a problem.

6. What’s your availability for support between sessions?

Sometimes clinical issues can’t wait a week. Does the supervisor offer support by email or text? Is there a protocol for emergencies?

Why it matters: Accessibility matters, especially if you’re working with high-acuity clients. Does your Supervisor charge for these in-between contacts? It’s good to know in advance.

7. What do you love about being a supervisor?

This might be the most revealing question of all.

Why it matters: You want a supervisor who is in this for values-aligned reasons, not just to pad their resume, create therapist copies of themselves, or collect a check.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a supervisor is choosing a partner in your professional journey. You deserve someone who sees your potential, invests in your development, and honors your uniqueness as a future LMFT.

If you’re curious about what it’s like to work with me, I’d love to connect and talk more about your goals, questions, and hopes for supervision.

👉 Contact me to schedule a free consultation here
👉 Or download my free guide: “30 Must-Have Resources for LMFT Associates”

You don’t have to figure this all out alone—and you don’t have to settle.