Effective Communication with Your Supervisor

Effective communication is a cornerstone of a successful fieldwork supervision experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Building a strong and open line of communication with your supervisor is essential for fostering a productive and collaborative relationship that supports your professional growth and skill development.

Clear and consistent communication facilitates a shared understanding of expectations, goals, and feedback, enabling you to maximize the benefits of your supervision experience. Here are some strategies for effective communication with your supervisor:

• Active Listening: During supervision meetings, practice active listening by giving your supervisor your undivided attention, avoiding interruptions, and asking clarifying questions when needed. This demonstrates respect and helps ensure you fully understand the feedback and guidance provided.

• Openness to Feedback: Approach feedback from your supervisor with an open and growth-oriented mindset. Feedback, even when constructive or critical, is an opportunity for learning and improvement. Avoid becoming defensive or dismissive, and instead, engage in a thoughtful discussion about the feedback and how to apply it.

• Clear and Concise Communication: When presenting cases, reporting data, or discussing concerns, communicate in a clear and concise manner. Provide relevant details and use behavior-analytic terminology to ensure your supervisor fully understands the context and can provide accurate guidance.

• Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask questions when you are unsure or need clarification. Asking questions demonstrates your engagement and commitment to learning, and it allows your supervisor to provide additional explanations or examples to enhance your understanding.

• Timely Follow-up: After supervision meetings, follow up promptly on any action items or tasks assigned by your supervisor. This demonstrates your commitment and accountability, and it also helps maintain the continuity of your supervision experience.

• Address Conflicts Professionally: If conflicts or disagreements arise, address them professionally and respectfully. Seek to understand your supervisor's perspective, and work together to find a resolution that aligns with ethical and professional standards.

At L.E.A.P ABA Therapy, our experienced supervisors foster an open and supportive environment for effective communication. They encourage supervisees to actively participate in discussions, ask questions, and provide feedback to ensure a collaborative and productive supervision experience.

Checklist: Preparing for Productive Supervision Meetings

1. Review your notes, data, and materials from previous supervision meetings and ongoing cases.

2. Identify specific areas where you need guidance, feedback, or clarification.

3. Prepare a concise summary of each case or issue you plan to discuss, including relevant background information, data, and any interventions implemented.

4. Develop specific questions or concerns you would like to address during the meeting.

5. Bring all necessary materials, such as data sheets, intervention plans, and relevant resources.

6. Arrive on time or a few minutes early to ensure a prompt start to the meeting.

7. Be open to feedback and prepared to take notes or ask clarifying questions.

8. At the end of the meeting, summarize any action items or tasks assigned, and confirm the next steps or follow-up plans.

By following these strategies and preparing diligently for supervision meetings, you can foster effective communication with your supervisor, maximize the value of your supervision experience, and develop the essential skills and competencies required for success as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).