The Clinical Fellowship Experience is described by the American Speech-Hearing-Language Association (ASHA) as the transition period from constant supervision to independent practitioner. It is typically the first paid professional experience for the new graduate, and may be in a setting with which the new clinician has little or even no significant practical experience. The mentor of a clinical fellow (CF) plays an important role in supporting the growth and development of this new professional in areas that extend beyond application of clinical skills and knowledge. This article discusses how the mentor may provide this support within a framework that facilitates the path to clinical independence.
