304 - Autism-Informed Supervisor Psychotherapeutic Needs of Mothers Returning to Work after Maternity Leave - Taking a Course during the Summer Break In Episode 304 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back for this week's three topics: Firstly in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', Rory and Ken go through what to look for in an autism-informed supervisor. Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Cathy Sansom about the psychotherapeutic needs of mothers returning to work after maternity leave. And lastly in 'Student Services', we look at things to consider when taking a course over the summer break between your studies. What to Look for in an Autism-Informed Supervisor [starts at 03:08 mins] Neurodivergence awareness is constantly rising, and that should be reflected in our practice. In this section, Rory and Ken go over some things to consider when looking for an autism-informed supervisor: If you are working with a neurodivergent client group, you will want an autism-informed supervisor. You want them to have a commitment to ongoing CPD. Have they had experience working with this client group? Have extra consideration for the language you use when working with neurodivergent clients. There is a lot to keep up to date with - even legislation. Every neurodivergent client is a unique individual. Your client may be undiagnosed. Psychotherapeutic Needs of Mothers Returning to Work after Maternity Leave [starts at 24:00 mins] In this week's 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Cathy Sansom about the psychotherapeutic needs of mothers returning to work after maternity leave. The main points of this discussion include: It can be overwhelming to return back to work and be met by changes. These can be both big and small. Feelings of anxiety may occur if you don't know what you're returning to. More support, contact, and communication should be given. Returning mothers would benefit from structure and planning. It is very common for mothers returning from maternity leave to have feelings of anxiety and guilt. There may also be feelings of a loss of self-identity. There are certain expectations that might be presented by social media. These women now have a duel role, both as a parent and as an employee. There can be many mixed emotions - they are carrying both the positive and the negative at the same time. Taking a Course during the Summer Break [starts at 41:49 mins] Over the summer break, you might find yourself looking for something to fill your time. In this section, Rory and Ken discuss some of the ways you can prepare for your next level of study. Some people might want to keep their momentum going over the break. Do some CPD, look at courses to do over the summer - be careful not to do courses that stray out of your modality as this may confuse your theory when you get back into study. Look into a retreat or meditation, practice self-care and charge your own batteries. Revisit and refine your counselling skills. Links and Resources Counselling Skills Academy Advanced Certificate in Counselling Supervision Basic Counselling Skills: A Student Guide Counsellor CPD Counselling Study Resource Counselling Theory in Practice: A Student Guide Counselling Tutor Shop Facebook group Website Online and Telephone Counselling: A Practitioner's Guide Online and Telephone Counselling Course