Reflection on Models of Supervision

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Reflection on Models of Clinical Counseling Supervision While each of the models of supervision introduced in Bernard & Goodyear’s (2014) class text have merit, I gravitate towards the Ronnestad and Skovholt Lifespan Developmental Model of supervision. However, I do not advocate a purist view of sole usage of this model, as I envision the possibility of integrating interventions into a combined model that may serve my future supervisee’s specific needs (i.e., multicultural competencies, case conceptualizations, transference/counter-transference, etc.). . Ronnestad and Skovholt’s approach provides the supervisor with a clear and practical strategy to create an environment to enhance a supervisee’s learning, selfevaluative skills, self- motivation and professional development. The Lifespan Model resonated with me as it evoked images of a parallel process occurring between my lifelong quest for cognitive, emotional and spiritual development; alongside my current pursuit of knowledge, understanding, effectiveness and competency within the professional counseling field. Upon entry into the counseling graduate program, the counselor trainee/supervisee sets off on a journey of human growth and professional development, pledging to continue evolving throughout his/her professional career. The needs of the counselor supervisee will depend upon his/her level of development, which is categorized into six “phases” and fourteen themes (pp. 41-42). Prior to enrolling in this counseling program, most of us had been involved in helping others by listening, providing support, or providing unsolicited advice. We may have had loose boundaries when reaching out to those needing assistance. Ronnestad and Skovholt described the developmental level of such novices as: “Phase 1: The Lay Helper Phase.” With a few years of experience, counselors develop authentic styles that are congruent
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