Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of the initial supervisory sessions between a social worker supervisor and a new supervisee?

1. To build rapport and friendship

2. To establish learning objectives

3. To outline remuneration and benefits

4. To evaluate the supervisee's job performance

The correct answer is: To establish learning objectives

The primary purpose of the initial supervisory sessions between a social worker supervisor and a new supervisee is to establish learning objectives. This stage is crucial for setting the foundation of the supervision relationship. When supervisors and supervisees come together for the first sessions, it is essential to identify and clarify specific goals and objectives that will guide the learning process throughout the supervision. This includes discussing the supervisee's professional development needs, strengths, and areas for growth. By establishing clear learning objectives, the supervisory relationship can be structured to focus on relevant skills, knowledge, and experiences that the supervisee needs to enhance their practice. This proactive approach allows for targeted feedback and support moving forward, ensuring that the supervision is meaningful and aligned with both the supervisee's needs and the expectations of their role within the organization. While building rapport and friendship is important in building a positive working relationship, establishing learning objectives takes precedence as it directly impacts professional development. Discussions about remuneration and benefits typically occur in networking or human resources contexts rather than initial supervision sessions. Evaluating the supervisee's job performance may take place later in the supervisory process but is not the primary focus of the initial meetings, which are more oriented toward developing a clear plan for growth and learning.