Work

A case study of clinical supervision to support early childhood leaders in times of natural disasters: “It’s not a designer handbag”

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: This paper is a case study of clinical supervision to support early childhood leaders in times of a natural disaster. The case is of five Directors working in long day care services in regional New South Wales, and their Manager, following catastrophic flooding in the region. Data were gathered through individual interviews and thematic analysis conducted. The paper summarises the emotional and professional burdens experienced by the participants as a result of the flood. The case study identifies the benefits of clinical supervision for these leaders’ personal wellbeing and professional practice during natural disaster, and highlights the need for clinical supervision to be delivered by skilled, trauma-informed supervisors who understand the early childhood context. Some challenges to clinical supervision are identified. Arguments are made for supervision to be provided and sustained to support early childhood leaders in both the emergency and recovery periods of experiencing a natural disaster.

Source: Australasian Journal of Early Childhood

DOI: 10.1177/18369391231217266

Author: Sandie Wong

Institution: Macquarie University

Language: English

Topic: Social Work Education and Practice

Subfield: Public Administration

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,250