Peers with benefits: Exploring peer supervision in the Philippine setting

• Main Author: Mendoza, Sophia Almeniana
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2021
• Subjects: Peer counseling; Counselors—Supervision of; Counselor and client; Education; Educational Administration and Supervision
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etdd_counseling/3; https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/context/etdd_counseling/article/1002/viewcontent/Peers_With_Benefits__Exploring_Peer_Supervision_in_the_Philippine_Redacted.pdf
• Institution: De La Salle University

Abstract There is growing evidence indicating the potential contributions of peer supervision in the counseling profession, particularly as a viable adjunct or alternative to the limited availability of traditional clinical supervision. However, its status and utilization has not been explored. The purpose of this study was to gain an in-depth understanding of peer supervision in the Philippine setting. This research utilized a concurrent mixed method design. In Study 1, a survey was conducted to explore and describe the occurrence of peer-related professional development practices among Filipino counselors. A total of 350 counselors participated in the study. Results revealed that majority of the participants engage in informal peer-related professional development practices to seek informational and psychological support both in personal and professional level. These peer-related activities are believed to be of high importance. In Study 2, 30 practicing counselors participated in a total of 10 focus group discussions to investigate the nuances of peer supervision in the local setting. There are key components characterizing peer supervision among Filipino counselors. They are found to possess the elements of spontaneity, close peer relationships, safe environment, and peer accountability. Perceived benefits indicate that peer supervision contributes not only to counselor development, but to well-being as well. Moreover, the existence of these “ad hoc” peer supervision suggests a strong sense of commitment of Filipino counselors to their profession by nurturing their well-being and continuously learning to safeguard and uphold standards of counseling practice. This study concludes that peer supervision can be a feasible alternative or supplement to clinical supervision. Based on these findings, implications for counseling practice, counselors training, as well as recommendations were discussed.