Peer-Led Group Tele-Supervision of Clinical Psychologists: Optimization of Resources - A Malaysian Case Study

Abstract

Inaccessibility to clinical supervision is an issue faced by solo clinical psychologist practitioners. To overcome this problem, the authors described the innovative combination use of web-based instant messaging application and video call application in conducting a peer-led group tele-supervision among 28 clinical psychologists, including WhatsApp^TM, Skype^TM and Zoom^TM. The regular peer clinical supervision group started since October 2017 and it served as a platform to: 1) address important clinical care related issues, 2) discuss case assessment and management, 3) provide technical instruction, 4) explore resistance and analyse countertransference, 5) provide emotional support, and 6) share knowledge and update guidelines. The challenges include: 1) difficulty of facetime session arrangement, 2) limited time for in-depth discussion, 3) internet connection issue, and 4) dilemma on documentation. With more than one year of experience of using this tele-supervision model, it is seen to be a potential solution for other resource-scarce developing countries and other clinical disciplines although more structured and larger prospective studies are required.