Counselling Supervision in Context (PDF)

`This book... argues that the social context is important for the individual client, supervisee and supervisor, as is the context in which the work and supervision are done... it is a clear, well-written and enjoyable book, containing helpful information for both supervisees and supervisors' - Transformations, The PCSR Journal

There is an increasing awareness of the impact of individual factors on therapeutic work, both with clients and with their counsellors in supervision, but the influence of social contexts on this work has been less clearly articulated. This book provides counsellors with practical information about supervising specific types of clients and in specific organizational settings.

Part One addresses four essential aspects of the individual - race, gender, disability and sexual orientation, exploring their influence on the therapeutic relationship and the supervision of trainee and experienced counsellors. Part Two assesses the impact of the organizations where counselling takes place - how different kinds of settings affect work with clients and thus the work of supervision. By highlighting context as a potential source of difficulty for the client, the book encourages trainees and supervisors to look beyond the individual and avoid placing the burden of responsibility for problems upon the client.