The Situational Leadership Theory (SLT) serves as a process model that seamlessly integrates into the framework of clinical supervision. This approach entails leaders examining various aspects of a given situation to determine the most suitable leadership style and techniques (Hersey et al., 2001). These components encompass task behaviors, relationship behaviors, and the readiness of followers, which bear direct resemblance to the focal points of supervision, namely skill enhancement, the dynamic between supervisee and supervisor, and supervisee growth. While SLT has historically found application in industry and business domains, we propose that it offers a valuable augmentation to existing supervision models that may not explicitly emphasize leadership development (Kozachuk & Conley, 2021, par. 6).
Situational leaders adeptly tailor their leadership style in accordance with the situation or task at hand. Within the realm of Situational Leadership, four distinct styles emerge: directing, coaching, supporting, and delegating. In the directing style, leaders furnish precise instructions and delineate the necessary steps for successful task accomplishment. The coaching style involves leaders providing guidance and motivation. Alternatively, the supporting style centers on furnishing continuous support to instill confidence in teachers or staff members regarding their performance. Lastly, the delegating style involves leaders assigning tasks to individuals capable of independent work, necessitating minimal oversight.
The article titled "Development-Oriented Situational Supervision: A Leadership Approach to Supervision in Counselor Education" explores the application of Situational Supervision within the context of Counselor Education. This piece highlights how Situational Leadership can be seamlessly integrated into counselor education programs. The authors posit that supervisors possess the capacity to select the most fitting leadership style based on the staff's level of preparedness. Quick situational assessment is pivotal for Situational Leaders to adeptly apply one of the four styles: directing, coaching, supporting, and delegating. Ultimately, the article concludes that the application of Situational Leadership in Counselor Education cultivates a sense of competence and assurance among students, enabling their progression from foundational counseling skills to diagnostics and assessment.
Reference.
Kozachuk, L. A., & Conley, A. H. (2021). Development-oriented situational supervision: a leadership approach to supervision in counselor education. Journal of Counselor Leadership and Advocacy, 8(1), 44–55. https://doi.org/10.1080/2326716X.2020.1835586
