Walden University Working with Conflict in Clinical Supervision Discussion

It is not uncommon for a client to project feelings onto his or her therapist. Likewise, the therapist sometimes may have romantic feelings for a client. Transference and countertransference issues require great skill on the part of the supervising psychologist so that the therapist-in-training does no harm when working with clients.

To prepare for this Discussion, read the required readings for the week, paying special attention to Ladany, Nelson, and Friedlander (2005a).

By Day 4

Post an analysis of the supervisory skills required in supervising a therapist whose client has developed feelings for the therapist. Then, explain whether the same or different supervisory skills would be required if the therapist developed feelings for the client. Finally, as a supervisor, describe how you might most effectively approach the situation. Include a description of the supervisory skills on which you would rely in each situation.

Be sure to support your post with specific references to the Learning Resources.

Read a selection of your colleagues’ posts.

By Day 6

Respond to at least one colleague’s post in one of the following ways:

• Offer additional skills required in each situation.
• Suggest an alternative approach for effectively solving the situation.
• Validate an idea with your own experience or anecdote.

Be sure to support your responses with specific references to the Learning Resources.