153 Toxic Supervision: Red Flags and Remedies

Badass Therapists Building Practices That Thrive

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10d ago 23:22

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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.

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Chapters

1. Introduction to Toxic Supervisor Traits (00:00:00)

2. Micromanagement Masked as Support (00:04:53)

3. Inconsistent Expectations and Moving Goalposts (00:07:18)

4. Overstepping Professional Boundaries and Dual Roles (00:09:49)

5. Chronic Unavailability and Power Imbalance (00:16:18)

6. Finding Support and Community Resources (00:20:32)

154 episodes

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