Always look behind the curtain. How things appear are not how they are. There is so much going on that I didn't expect, and so much NOT going on that I totally expected. It's a disappointment and a surprise all rolled into one. The people that appear confident and like they're a part of something big, seem to be all talk.This was a bit cryptic, and so I'll expand on it.
Going into this practicum, I had some beliefs about what I was to expect, based on prior knowledge of how things were done in similar organizations as well as some comments I'd heard from someone at my school. He had told me that my supervisor was involved in many things to advance the profession of social work in the organization, was dynamic and I would have a lot to learn from her (the supervisor). Sadly, this has not been the case.
My supervisor is a social worker by training, but so much of her practice does not seem to be, for lack of a better term, social worky. I've found better "social work" among the OTs, nurses and other clinicians. This person seems to have a bit too much...well, ego, and while trying to "teach" me, they haven't taken the time to understand what I already know! I would think that a practicum supervisor would take the time to know what I can do, and what I've done, before they go about trying to show me the ropes. And you'd think they would listen to me! Sure, I get the breaks between when she wants to say more to say some words, but they're not heard. It's just disappointing.
But no worries! This is where we go behind the curtains! I have found so many other people within the organization willing to help me, that this practicum will not be lost. As I said before, the nurses, OTs and other clinicians are a huge part in this. I am involved in some group projects that are pretty exciting, as well as the opportunity to work in an area of early intervention that is very appealing to me. Now I just have to find a way through the supervision sessions that come every second week with my supervisor, and I'll be good.
4 comments:
At least you've found a way around her. Not all supervisors are the best teachers. Have fun and good luck!
Hello - I remember social work pracs and they can be a great time and they can be hard if you get a dodgy supervisor. It's disappointing that she hasn't taken the time to get to know you and find out what you are already good at - it must be very frustrating. This is a good experience to have though, because you will meet people like this all through your social work career - some will be other social workers and others will not. But they are in every organisation and this is a good opportunity to work out how to deal with them.
Good Luck
Helen
Yeah, those can be hard. I remember squirming in supervision. ach.
Thanks for expanding on that. I was really curious what you meant.
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