Clinical Supervision and Consultation

My Philosophy

Like a counselling relationship, I believe the foundation of effective clinical supervision or consultation is dependent upon our capacity to develop a trusting and safe relationship. Despite the normalized expectation that all Therapists will and should seek supervision, I recognize there is vulnerability in asking for guidance or discussing our own struggles with the work. As such, I am consistently honoured to be consulted by colleagues in this role and hold the philosophy of collaborative practice in supervision. I view my role to be primarily supportive, curious, and non-judgmental. This does not mean, however, that I am limited to being an empathic listener. I will present ideas, offer suggestions, help you examine the implications of various approaches and assist in deepening your understanding of your client relationships. You remain the expert on your clients, and it would be unethical for me to direct you to take a specific action given I do not have a relationship with them.

My Approach and Training

I rely on Stotenberg’s integrated developmental model to guide my specific approach to supervision, which highlights that all individuals are in a place of ongoing growth and learning. Beginning counsellors may have needs for more general and direct feedback and support, while others with clinical or work experience may identify more process-oriented supervision needs, or the desire to explore their growing edge around a specific modality or skill. My approach to supporting counsellors, agencies and schools is also informed by my specific area of graduate research and current teaching on the topics of burnout, vicarious trauma and secondary traumatic stress. I have completed the course Innovative Practices in Clinical Supervision at the Justice Institute of BC, and for ten years I provided evaluative clinical supervision to counselling psychology graduate students from the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, Adler University, City University and Trinity Western University. I continue to provide supervision to Counsellors working in both private practice and community agencies, as well consult with Teachers, Administrators and School Counsellors around clinical related issues that arise in children and youth educational settings.