… a conversation between peers that ultimately fosters the well-being of an absent other.
Mary Rose Bumpus, Supervision of Spiritual Directors, p.2
When we work with people – directees, patients, guests, clients, colleagues – we are affected by them. Some we will like, others we may dread; a few will haunt us. Supervision, perhaps more helpfully called ‘reflective practice’, aims to help us grow in our craft, self-understanding, confidence, and vocation, to address how we are affected by the people we listen to, and become more effective in our work with them.
Supervision gives an opportunity to:
- reflect upon how we are affected by our work practice
- discharge difficult and uncomfortable feelings
- receive support and encouragement
- gain insights into our reactions
- explore other ways of being with, and responding to those we listen to
- receive training
- put in place professional norms and good practice
Supervision in a group:
- draws on the collective experience and wisdom of the individuals
- allows us to learn from the ways others work
- provides a safe place to step inside the shoes of those we listen to
I have training from the London Centre for Spiritual Direction and the Association of Pastoral Supervisors and Educators. I have experience in providing supervision to:
- spiritual directors – individuals, groups, and those in formation
- pastoral carers
- healthcare professionals
N.B. I am not currently accepting new people for supervision.