Watkins C Edward
Department of Psychology, University of North Texas, USA.
Am J Psychother. 2010;64(3):239-56. doi: 10.1176/appi.psychotherapy.2010.64.3.239.
The characterological resistance of the psychotherapy supervisor to engage in authentic relatedness with psychotherapy supervisees is examined. Three types of supervisor resistances are considered: Autonomy based, shame based, and narcissism based. These resistances are placed within a developmental context and are viewed as particularly problematic for supervisors new to the role of supervising. While these resistances can subside over time, they still have a decidedly negative impact on the supervision experience and can restrain supervisee learning and growth as a therapist. Self-analysis, psychotherapy, psychotherapy supervision coursework, and the supervision of supervision are presented as methods by which supervisor characterological resistances can be attacked.
