Issues in training effective supervisors

Abstract

While increased attention has been focused on the topic of clinical supervision, most of the theoretical writing and empirical research to date has emphasized issues pertaining to the supervisee. As a result, the role of the supervisor in the supervisory dyad has received relatively little attention in spite of its critical function in the supervisory process. This article examines the literature on supervisor training and development. Specifically, four topic areas are reviewed: (a) characteristics of the “ideal” supervisor, (b) theories of supervisor development, (c) ethical and professional issues, and (d) recommendations for supervisor training.