When supervision goes sideways, what's a pre-licensed therapist to do? In this candid conversation, Dr. Kate Walker and Jennifer Marie Fairchild pull back the curtain on one of the most anxiety-producing challenges facing associates and interns—addressing problematic supervision.

Many therapists-in-training find themselves frozen when faced with supervision red flags, trapped between speaking up and risking their relationship with someone who holds power over their career. This episode offers practical, actionable strategies for having these difficult conversations with confidence and professionalism.

We tackle the supervision power dynamic head-on, reminding associates that while these strategies empower you to advocate for yourself, the ultimate responsibility for a healthy supervision relationship lies with the supervisor. Learn how to document concerns, use "I" statements effectively, leverage your knowledge of state regulations, and bring solutions rather than just problems to the table.

Perhaps most importantly, we address the boundary-setting that sometimes becomes necessary in problematic supervision relationships. From networking resources to supervision directories, we outline concrete options for associates who may need to transition to new supervision. The mental health field desperately needs dedicated new professionals—you're too important to lose because of discouraging supervision experiences.

Whether you're currently experiencing supervision challenges or simply preparing yourself for potential future difficulties, this episode provides the roadmap and reassurance needed to navigate these waters with professionalism and self-advocacy. Remember that pushing back and developing your professional identity is a normal part of clinical development, not insubordination—and most supervisors genuinely want to support your growth when approached thoughtfully.

Ready to transform your supervision experience? Listen now to gain the confidence to address concerns, set healthy boundaries, and continue your journey toward full licensure with renewed clarity and purpose.

Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Ever felt trapped in a supervisory relationship that's stunting your growth rather than fostering it? You're not alone. In this candid conversation, we pull back the curtain on toxic supervision practices that plague the mental health profession.

Clinical supervision should be a developmental journey where new clinicians discover their unique therapeutic voice. Instead, too many face micromanagement disguised as "support" that creates clones rather than competent, independent practitioners. We explore how supervisors who constantly shift expectations create anxiety-producing environments where supervisees chase approval rather than focusing on clinical growth. When your supervisor doubles as your employer, those dual roles can create a perfect storm of boundary violations and conflicting priorities.

The power imbalance in supervision is real and undeniable. Many associates and provisionally licensed professionals fear speaking up about inadequate supervision or inappropriate behavior, worried about retaliation that could delay their licensure journey. Particularly troubling is the practice of threatening to withhold verification of supervision hours – an abuse of authority that creates fear instead of fostering development.

For supervisors recognizing these patterns in themselves, we offer solutions rather than shame. Connect with communities like our Texas Supervisor Coalition, utilize resources like the Clinical Supervision Survival Guide, or join our monthly consultation groups. Developing as a supervisor is a process, but that growth shouldn't come at your supervisee's expense.

Stay tuned for our follow-up episode where we'll provide concrete strategies for supervisees to advocate for themselves in challenging supervision situations. Whether you're providing supervision or receiving it, remember that the relationship should fundamentally serve the growth of the clinician and the wellbeing of their clients.

Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.