iaedp™'s Connection, Outreach, and Mentoring Committee (COMC) is committed to building all types of connections within iaedp™, including mentoring relationships.  The purpose of iaedp™ mentorship is to provide a resource to clinicians who are new the field of eating disorders, new to iaedp™, or looking for guidance.  These relationships will enhance professional connections as well as professional development.  Each relationship is tailored to meet the needs of the mentee and the mentoring connection. 

A mentor is not a supervisor and assumes no clinical or other obligations or directives toward the mentee.  Our mentors volunteer their time and experience to support the professional growth of our mentees.

Definitions:
Mentoring:  A trusted relationship with someone who is a positive influence in another’s life.  Provides guidance, support, and encouragement to mentee.

Supervision:  Action or process of advising and directing what someone does or how something is done.

Guidelines of the Mentorship Connections:

·  This is a volunteer position

·  Mentors must have been a member of iaedp™ for a minimum 5 years

·  Mentors must be certified by iaedp™

·  Mentors are appointed by invitation only by the committee, the board, or chapter leadership

·  A requested commitment of approximately 6 months which can be increased or decreased at the discretion of the mentor

·  1-3 mentees will be placed with a mentor

·  Mentors will encourage and facilitate further connections with i iaedp™ and the field

·  The mentoring roles and relationship will be defined by the mentor/mentee connection.   Examples of the function of these relationships include but are not limited to:

• Professional guidance and support
• Navigating iaedp™ and Symposiums
• Facilitation of further connections
• Invitation to participate in conference Welcoming Breakfast
• Invitation to participate in iaedp™ and COMC events 
  

·  Clinical Supervision and directives are NOT a part of mentoring.  If a mentee is in need of supervision, they may either ask their mentor to connect them with a supervisor or reference the list of iaedp™ Approved Supervisors. 

·  Mentoring is not to be used to obtain employment or for any financial gain for either party