Narrative Philosophy of Supervision: Isomorphic Journey of Discovery and Identity

Abstract

The collaborative process of supervision supports discovery of clinical identity and skill for the trainee and supervisor. It affords a bare space for both to explore self-of-the-therapist in and out of session by bringing to light their narratives. Also, it provides room to remedy their meaning making. Supervision unearths the essence of equafinality interwoven through the supervisory alliance relationship, which highlights that there is more than one way to learn and/or supervise. This notion of relationship grounds the writers research, clinical and supervisory skills, and role as a family therapist attempting to serve from a narrative framing. Within the writers journey of discovery and identity as a supervisor, she shares a framework on having a collaborative, compassionate, and contemplative lens that includes the voice of the family system and scaffolds the development of the trainee. Her therapeutic practice guides and gives room for trainees to lead in their identity growth.