My Approach to Counselor Supervision

Counselor Supervision Defined

Supervision is more than just a requirement for licensure—it is a chance to grow, learn, and develop into the best counselor you can be. I see supervision as both an educational process and a partnership, where we work together to build your skills and confidence while navigating the challenges of the counseling profession.

My approach emphasizes growth at every stage of the counseling journey. Growth doesn’t always mean continuing in the profession, and that’s okay. Supervision is also a space to reflect on whether counseling is the right fit for you. Deciding to pursue a different path is just as much a success as growing into a stronger counselor.

Balancing Guidance and Growth

As you develop as a counselor, your needs will change, and my approach will evolve to meet them. Early in your journey, I provide clear direction and structured support, helping you build a strong foundation in core skills, ethical decision-making, and understanding the distinct role of a counselor compared to other fields like medicine. This includes developing relational dynamics, empathy, and a holistic approach to care.

As you gain confidence and experience, we will focus on helping you think critically and refine your therapeutic style, enabling you to address more complex client needs with adaptability and creativity. Along the way, you will have opportunities to explore particular modalities, and I will work with you to identify a specialization that aligns with your strengths and passions. Together, we will develop a best practices approach for your chosen area of focus, ensuring your methods are both evidence-based and meaningful. My goal is to balance guidance and independence, fostering your growth into a counselor who thrives professionally and serves clients with authenticity and excellence.

Building a Strong Relationship

The relationship we build during supervision is the key to its success. I prioritize creating a safe, trusting environment where you feel comfortable discussing challenges, exploring your identity as a counselor, and setting meaningful goals. Research has shown that relational dynamics are often the most important part of supervision, and I work hard to foster an open, supportive space where we can address both technical skills and interpersonal growth.

Addressing the Whole Picture

Supervision is also about more than learning techniques—it is about understanding who you are as a counselor and how to navigate the complexities of this profession. Together, we will address important areas like building competence, finding your purpose, developing emotional awareness, and staying motivated. I also help you navigate professional ethics and individual differences, ensuring you feel prepared to serve a diverse range of clients with integrity and care.

A Focus on Cultural Humility and Values

Cultural humility is central to my approach. I believe that supervision should be a space where all perspectives are valued. For example, we will engage openly with cultural differences and explore the impact of gender, race, microaggressions, value differences, especially the functions of rupture and repair. My faith also shapes my supervision style, emphasizing the importance of ethical decision-making, character development, and a commitment to serving others with compassion and integrity. These values guide how I approach every aspect of supervision, helping you grow not only as a counselor but also as a person.

A Shared Commitment to Growth

Part of my role as a supervisor is to ensure that the counseling profession remains strong and ethical. This means being honest about areas where growth is needed and making decisions that protect the well-being of clients. I take this responsibility seriously and approach it with humility and fairness, recognizing the importance of supporting you while also upholding the integrity of our field.

Image generated using DALL·E by OpenAI. Used with permission.

I see supervision as a shared commitment to your growth and success. It is a process of stewardship—helping you develop the skills, confidence, and ethical grounding you need to thrive in this profession. Whether you are just starting out or preparing to take the next step in your career, I am here to support you, challenge you, and help you reach your full potential as a counselor. Together, we can build a strong foundation for a career that makes a difference.