Clinical Supervision
My approach to clinical supervision is heavily influenced by my Jungian lens/training, as well as centering anti-racism/anti-oppressive practices. My approach emphasizes not just the clinical and technical aspects of therapy but also the symbolic, archetypal, and relational dimensions of both the therapeutic process and the therapist’s own development. Here are some examples of how I view the co-creation of the supervision process.
1. Focus on the Therapist’s Inner World
Exploring the Unconscious: I pays close attention to the therapist’s’ inner world, including their unconscious processes, dreams, and personal archetypal themes. Depending on each therapist’s comfort level, I might invite you to explore how your own complexes, shadow aspects, and transference/countertransference dynamics are playing out in the therapeutic relationship with clients.
Use of Dreams: Your dreams might also be a significant part of the supervision process. Again, depending on your comfort, I may encourage you to share and explore dreams that relate to your work or your own psychological growth, viewing these dreams as valuable insights into your and your clients’ unconscious processes.
2. Depth Exploration of the Therapeutic Process
Symbolic Interpretation: I encourage the therapist to consider the symbolic and archetypal dimensions of the client’s material. This might involve exploring the deeper meanings behind a client’s symptoms, behaviors, or narratives, and how these relate to universal themes or myths.
Archetypal Patterns: Supervision may include identifying and discussing archetypal patterns that are emerging in the client’s life or in the therapeutic relationship. I aim to support you in recognizing these patterns and consider how they can be used to facilitate the client’s individuation process and healing.
3. Attention to the Therapeutic Relationship
Transference and Countertransference: I place great emphasis on understanding the dynamics of transference and countertransference. I seek to help therapists to explore these dynamics in depth, considering how your own unconscious material might be interacting with the client’s.
The Relational Field: The therapeutic relationship is a co-created space, where both therapist and client contribute to the unfolding of the therapeutic process. I help the therapist to explore how this relational field is evolving and what unconscious material is being activated. There will also be a relational field between the two of us in the supervision process, I name and explore these dynamics directly to facilitate mutual growth.
4. Personal and Professional Growth
Individuation of the Therapist: Supervision with me also focuses on the therapist’s own individuation journey. I view each therapist’s challenges and successes in their clinical work as opportunities for personal growth and transformation. We give so much in this work, and with intention, we can get so much in return.
Supportive, Non-Directive Approach: My supervision style is supportive and non-directive. I encourage therapists to find their own way of working, trusting in the process of exploration rather than imposing rigid guidelines. I seek to foster your development as an authentic, self-aware clinician.
5. Creative and Intuitive Methods
Active Imagination: I often encourage the use of active imagination as a way for the therapist to engage with unconscious material that arises in supervision. This could involve visualizations, dialogues with inner figures, or creative expression through art or writing.
Myth and Storytelling: I utilize myths, stories, and cultural symbols to illustrate and deepen understanding of clinical situation, this tends to help therapists to see the broader, archetypal context of the client’s struggles.
6. Ethical and Clinical Considerations
Holistic Ethical Reflection: While ethical and clinical considerations are part of all forms of supervision, I tend to frame these discussions within a broader ethical context that includes not just the well-being of the client, but also the therapist’s alignment with their own ethical and spiritual values.
Clinical Skill Development: While I’m deeply focused on the symbolic and relational aspects of the work, I also address the practical, clinical skills needed in therapy. I help therapists to refine their techniques, manage clinical risks, and navigate difficult situations, all within the context of the therapist’s ongoing individuation.
In sum, clinical supervision is a multifaceted process that emphasizes the therapist’s personal growth and the depth dimensions of the therapeutic work. I provide a supportive environment where the therapist can explore both their own psyche and the complex dynamics of their clients’ inner worlds, all within a framework that values the transformative potential of the unconscious.
