Supervision & Training at Parkland Psychology & Wellness

The Value of Supervision

Supervision has always been a central and deeply valued part of my professional world. During my graduate studies, I looked forward to weekly supervision with site supervisors each year—fifteen supervisors in total throughout my training! Those hours became a space for exploring countertransference reactions, refining my theoretical orientation, and honing my case conceptualization skills. Most importantly, they taught me the value of safe, trusting supervisory relationships—spaces where I could be vulnerable, bring my full self into the work, and learn the balance of connection and healthy boundaries.

I was fortunate to gain experience as a supervisor early in my career, supporting graduate students during my own graduate studies, internship, and postdoctoral years. I received “supervision of supervision” (yes, it’s a thing!)—opportunities that helped me grow into the supervisor role and shaped how I approach this work today.

After completing my Psy.D., I spent nine years at Bellarmine University as Assistant Director of the Counselling Centre. Alongside my client work, I served as Practicum Coordinator, supervising two to three graduate students per year—about 20 supervisees in total. I loved that role. Supporting each supervisee’s unique journey, helping them discover who they are as a therapist, what they believe fosters healing, and how to build a meaningful career was deeply rewarding.

When I moved to Canada and opened my private practice (hello, Amy the business owner!), I spent the first while solo. But I missed supervising—the collaborative energy, the rich conversations with eager learners. I’m naturally relational and a team player, so when Karli reached out in 2019 asking if I’d supervise her, I enthusiastically said yes. Since then, I’ve had the honor of supervising four graduate students.

Watching each of them grow and find their place in the field has been incredible:

• Karli now runs her own private practice in Erickson, MB at Grit & Growth Wellness.

• Amanda works in private practice in Virden, MB.

• Kelsey serves veterans and their families at the Canadian Forces Base, Shilo, near Brandon, MB.

• Megan, my current practicum therapist, will soon graduate with her MA in Counselling Psychology, and I’m so excited to see where her path leads next.

I often say: I’m not here to create “little Amys.” My goal is to help each supervisee build a strong foundation, discover who they are as a therapist, and—when they’re ready—fly the nest and build a meaningful career of their own.

What excites me most is imagining this growing web of well-trained, compassionate clinicians serving rural Manitoba and beyond. Staying connected as colleagues, cheering each other on, and supporting one another in this meaningful work—it’s truly one of my greatest joys.

Curious what the supervision and training experience is like?

Karli, Amanda, and Kelsey have graciously shared their reflections below :