Reflect, Grow, Connect: A Pilot Study on the Potential Benefits of Facilitated Group Supervision for Radiation...

Facilitated Group Supervision (FGS) involves a group of professionals meeting under the guidance of a supervisor to discuss workplace challenges and promote reflective practice. Previous supervision styles have been trialled for radiation therapists (RTs) in New Zealand with mostly successful results. This pilot study aimed to explore how RTs perceived FGS and compare this with their experiences of previous supervision models.

This mixed-methods pilot study was conducted at the Wellington Blood and Cancer Centre with seven RTs. Participants met in two groups every four weeks for six months with an independent allied health-trained facilitator. Afterwards, they completed a QUALTRICS questionnaire, including the Clinical Supervision Evaluation Questionnaire, which is 14 Likert scale statements, assessing group process, purpose, and impact. Open-ended questions gathered qualitative data.

All seven radiation therapists completed the questionnaire, with both qualitative and quantitative results indicating highly positive feedback regarding FGS. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data revealed that participants developed valuable insights and coping strategies, felt the FGS environment enhanced safety and reflection, and found that discussing shared experiences reduced stress. The RTs also preferred FGS to their previous experiences of supervision.

The findings showed a positive perception of FGS among all participating RTs, especially experienced RTs who benefitted from the structure and process. Participants reported gaining valuable insights from both the facilitator and peers, which enhanced their skills and helped address clinical challenges. All participants expressed interest in continuing with FGS, agreed that FGS could benefit all RT professionals, and identified it as their preferred method of supervision.