In the intricate realm of clinical supervision, one often overlooked but profoundly significant is supervising the creation of a clinical will. As supervisors, our responsibilities extend beyond the realm of direct counselling; we play a crucial role in shaping the professional legacy of our supervisees. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the importance of clinical wills, the elements they should encompass, and how supervisors can guide their supervisees in crafting a document that ensures the continuity of care and the preservation of their therapeutic legacy.
The Significance of Clinical Wills:
Ensuring Continuity of Care:
Clinical wills serve as a roadmap, ensuring that the therapeutic care provided to clients remains uninterrupted in the event of unforeseen circumstances. By guiding supervisees in the creation of a clinical will, we contribute to the ongoing well-being of their clients.
Protecting Professional Legacy:
A clinical will is not just a legal document; it is a testament to a therapist’s professional legacy. By addressing ethical considerations, confidentiality, and the transfer of crucial information, supervisees can leave behind a positive and lasting impact on both clients and the profession.
Elements to Include in a Clinical Will:
1. Introduction and Personal Information:
Begin the clinical will with a clear identification of the therapist, including their full name, contact information, and any relevant professional credentials or affiliations.
2. Trustee Identification and Contact Details:
Specify who will take over the therapist’s practice and client cases in their absence. Include the trustee’s contact information, professional qualifications, and their relationship to the therapist. Explore the boundaries of the trustee’s role – for example, you may have a trustee who takes on the role of communicating to clients, and referring on appropriately. You may also have a trustee who looks after the therapists digital legacy. That may be one and the same. Explore whether you have a role as supervisor and trustee, or if a professional trustee service is more appropriate.
3. Confidentiality and Data Handling:
Address the confidentiality of client records and how they should be securely transferred to the designated trustee. Emphasize adherence to ethical and legal guidelines in data handling.
4. Client Transition and Communication:
Provide instructions on how clients will be informed of the therapist’s absence and how they will be managed. Consider that each client may wish to take a break from therapy, find their own therapist or take a referral. Encourage guidelines for maintaining open communication with clients during this process.
5. Treatment Plans and Progress Notes:
Detail how treatment plans and progress notes should be transferred, emphasizing the importance of maintaining continuity in the therapeutic process. Consider exploring the obligations of the therapist professionally and ethically in relation to client records. What does their insurance require of them (potentially 6 years or more if working with children and young people). Discuss where there notes will be stored and who will have access to them.
6. Professional Assets and Resources:
List any professional assets or resources, such as books, research materials, or specific therapeutic tools, and specify how they should be managed or transferred.
7. Ethical Considerations:
Address any ethical considerations related to the management of the therapist’s practice and clients. Ensure that the clinical will adheres to the therapist’s and professional bodies ethical principles and obligations.
8. Closure of Practice (If Applicable):
If the therapist intends to close their practice permanently, outline the steps for proper closure, such as referrals for ongoing care or the safe storage of client records. Consider their digital legacy such as Facebook pages, Instagram accounts, websites and subscriptions.
Benefits of Using a Clinical Will Template:
1. Clarity and Organization:
A clinical will template provides a structured and organized framework, making it easier for therapists to ensure that all essential aspects of their practice are covered in a clear and concise manner.
2. Time Efficiency:
Creating a clinical will from scratch can be time-consuming, but a template streamlines the process, allowing therapists to focus on tailoring the document to their specific needs rather than starting from scratch.
3. Comprehensive Coverage:
A well-designed template ensures that therapists do not overlook critical components of their clinical will, preventing potential gaps that could lead to confusion or disputes in the future.
4. Peace of Mind:
Having a clinical will in place, crafted with the help of a template, provides therapists with peace of mind, knowing that their clients and practice will be in capable hands should unforeseen circumstances arise.
Limitations of Using a Clinical Will Template:
1. Individualised Requirements:
While templates provide a strong foundation, therapists may have unique considerations or requirements specific to their practice that a general template cannot fully address. It is essential for therapists to review and customize the template accordingly.
2. Legal and Regional Variations:
Clinical wills may be subject to legal requirements or regional variations, and a template might not account for these specific nuances. Therapists should seek advice to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
3. Ongoing Updates:
A clinical will template is not a one-time document. Therapists should regularly review and update the clinical will to reflect any changes in their practice, professional relationships, or designated successors.
Conclusion:
In guiding our supervisees on the creation of clinical wills, we contribute not only to their professional development but also to the ethical and responsible practice of the therapeutic profession. By emphasising the importance of these documents, providing a comprehensive template, and encouraging regular updates, we ensure that our supervisees leave a legacy marked by integrity, continuity of care, and a commitment to the well-being of their clients. As clinical supervisors, let us empower our supervisees to navigate the future with confidence, knowing that their impact will endure beyond the boundaries of their therapeutic journey.
