An Examination of the Role of Clinical Supervision in Music Therapy Private Practice: A Descriptive Analysis

The purpose of this descriptive research study was twofold: (a) To identify how United States clinicians are seeking, providing, and receiving professional clinical supervision in their practice; and (b) to examine the frequency of clinical supervision in the private practice setting. Thirty-nine participants who self-identified as either a private practice business owner or private practice clinician responded to an online survey. Employees and contractors noted several benefits of clinical supervision, which included feeling valued as a music therapist, reduction in feelings of burnout, and clearer boundaries with their supervisor. Private practice business owners noted that clinical supervision led to improvements in interpersonal skills and intrapersonal skills of their employees and contractors. Participants identified affordability and accessibility as major factors that either facilitated or hindered clinical supervision.