Reflecting on Supervision
Professional supervision is a significant investment of time and money. But is it working for you? The new year is an excellent time to reflect on what you need this year, and to review your supervision.
6 Red Flags
Do any of these apply to you...?
I like my supervisor, but to be honest, supervison has got boring and predictable.
My supervisor is nice, but somehow we don’t get to talking about the things I am really struggling with.
I sometimes wonder who it’s for, as my supervisor spends most of the time sharing about him/herself.
It is a logistically hassle to find time and then travel to get there – I cancelled several times last year.
My supervisor only seems interested in problems, which can feel depressing.
I wish I could find a Christian supervisor who could relate to the spiritual challenges of ministry.
Then what??
If you are feeling underwhelmed or frustrated with your supervision, first talk this over with your supervisor. The whole point of supervision is to be safe space where you can grow in your leadership and ministry. So it is the ideal place to practice a courageous conversation, in which you articulate what you want and need. A good supervisor will be open to reviewing how the relationship is working for you.
If you are still not happy after talking it through, you are free to decide to end the supervision relationship. Hopefully this process has clarified for you what you are looking for in a new supervisor. If you are open to trying online supervision, you have a wide range of possible people to choose from. Consult directories and ask around. Pray about it.
The point is...
Christian ministry springs from the place where Jesus hears his Father say: “You are my Son, my beloved, in whom I am well pleased.” Ministry supervision is a vital space where you can reconnect again with God’s favour and affection for you, and explore how this is expressed in your work. 2023 will no doubt bring many challenges and demands. As you give out to others and lead in the church, may supervision sustain you and encourage you, sharpen your skills and grow your confidence.
Rev. Silvia Purdie is a counsellor and supervisor, based in Upper Hutt. You can contact her at silvia.purdie@gmail.com, phone 027 242 1113 or www.conversationscounselling.nz
