Presentation Title
Discussing Shame and Vulnerability in the Supervisory Relationship
Location
Fenn Tower Ballroom
Presentation Type
Roundtable Discussion
Start Date
4-12-2014 3:30 PM
End Date
4-12-2014 4:20 PM
Abstract
Supervision encompasses a relationship that is completely unique from other relationships in that several roles are inhabited by the same person, the supervisor. A supervisor is not a supervisee’s therapist, though therapeutic material is anticipated for discussion. Mentoring and gatekeeping are also part of the role of the supervisor, adding an element of power differential. Self-disclosure on account of both parties adds an element of shared vulnerability, further complicating this already complex relationship. Because of this complexity, the supervision process can be shame-inducing. Shame is differentiated from guilt as feelings of being inherently inferior (shame) versus knowledge of having performed below expectation (guilt). Put more simply, the belief that an individual is wrong, versus having done something wrong. If feelings of shame go unexplored, a major lapse in the learning process is inevitable, crippling personal and professional development. Conversely, the exploration of feelings of shame can be beneficial in a multi-faceted manner by informing areas of growth and enhancing self-understanding. A key factor which often dictates whether growth is supported or blocked is the nature of the supervisory relationship. Here, a sense of safety is necessary within the environment of the relationship in order for feelings of shame to be presented and processed.
Discussion questions:
-
What are you missing out on when you allow shame to silence you?
-
What characteristics would a supervisory relationship need to have in order for you to feel safe to explore feelings of shame? Conversely, what relationship characteristics would feel unsafe?
-
As clinicians-in-training, how can we use feelings of shame to inform our work with clients?
Discussing Shame and Vulnerability in the Supervisory Relationship
Fenn Tower Ballroom
Supervision encompasses a relationship that is completely unique from other relationships in that several roles are inhabited by the same person, the supervisor. A supervisor is not a supervisee’s therapist, though therapeutic material is anticipated for discussion. Mentoring and gatekeeping are also part of the role of the supervisor, adding an element of power differential. Self-disclosure on account of both parties adds an element of shared vulnerability, further complicating this already complex relationship. Because of this complexity, the supervision process can be shame-inducing. Shame is differentiated from guilt as feelings of being inherently inferior (shame) versus knowledge of having performed below expectation (guilt). Put more simply, the belief that an individual is wrong, versus having done something wrong. If feelings of shame go unexplored, a major lapse in the learning process is inevitable, crippling personal and professional development. Conversely, the exploration of feelings of shame can be beneficial in a multi-faceted manner by informing areas of growth and enhancing self-understanding. A key factor which often dictates whether growth is supported or blocked is the nature of the supervisory relationship. Here, a sense of safety is necessary within the environment of the relationship in order for feelings of shame to be presented and processed.
Discussion questions:
-
What are you missing out on when you allow shame to silence you?
-
What characteristics would a supervisory relationship need to have in order for you to feel safe to explore feelings of shame? Conversely, what relationship characteristics would feel unsafe?
-
As clinicians-in-training, how can we use feelings of shame to inform our work with clients?
