Establishing a supervision practice does not require a complex business structure at the beginning. Many supervisors start with a small number of well-designed documents and a clear plan for how they will offer their services.

The following checklist provides a practical starting point for supervisors who are ready to begin offering supervision.

Five Essential Documents

Before beginning supervision work, it is helpful to have a small set of documents that support clear expectations and professional practice.

1. Supervision Agreement

A written agreement that outlines:

• the purpose of supervision

• roles and responsibilities

• session structure and frequency

• confidentiality and its limits

• fees and cancellation arrangements

This document establishes the professional framework for the supervision relationship.

2. Informed Consent Form

This ensures supervisees understand:

• the purpose of supervision

• how information will be used and stored

• the limits of confidentiality

• their rights and responsibilities within the supervision process

3. Supervision Log

A record of supervision sessions that may include:

• session dates

• duration

• general themes or learning outcomes

Supervisees often use these logs to demonstrate continuing professional development.

4. Confidentiality and Privacy Statement

This outlines how supervision records and personal information will be stored and protected, and explains the circumstances where disclosure may be required.

5. Feedback or Evaluation Form

A simple feedback tool allows supervisees to comment on the supervision process and helps supervisors continually improve their practice.

Five Practical Steps to Get Started

Once these basic foundations are in place, supervisors can begin developing their practice.

1. Clarify Your Supervision Services

Decide:

• who you want to supervise

• what types of supervision you will offer

• whether sessions will be online, face-to-face, or hybrid

2. Connect With Your Professional Network

Let colleagues, professional associations, and training providers know that you are available to provide supervision.

Many supervision relationships begin through existing professional connections.

3. Start With a Small Cohort

Many supervisors begin by working with:

• a small group supervision circle

• a few individual supervisees

Starting small allows you to refine your supervision processes and documentation.

4. Develop Your Professional Presence

Consider creating a simple professional presence, such as:

• a LinkedIn profile describing your supervision services

• a webpage outlining your approach to supervision

• short professional development webinars or presentations

5. Maintain Your Own Reflective Practice

Supervisors benefit from ongoing learning and peer consultation.

Maintaining your own supervision or peer consultation helps ensure your practice remains reflective, ethical, and professionally accountable.

Final Reflection

Establishing a supervision practice is an evolving process. Most supervision businesses develop gradually through professional relationships, reputation, and a commitment to supporting practitioners in their professional growth.

By focusing on ethical practice, clear communication, and reflective learning, supervisors can create supervision services that contribute meaningfully to the dispute resolution profession.