Supervising practitioners in the sexual violence sector in Aotearoa New Zealand, who are themselves survivors of sexual harm: Examining potential counter-transferential issues.

Abstract

This article builds upon existing literature about the supervision needs of practitioners who are themselves adult survivors of childhood sexual harm, and who work in the field of sexual violence. It examines the personal and professional development needs of these survivor-practitioners and highlights potential issues that may surface in their work with adult survivors of childhood sexual harm. Particular attention is given to the counter-transferential dynamics between the survivor-supervisee, their client, and at times their supervisor. The question of what effective supervision looks like in this field of work is explored, with an emphasis on recognising potential counter-transferential issues at play for survivor-practitioners working in social services agencies that address the impacts of sexual harm in Aotearoa New Zealand.