The supervisory relationship in psychotherapy over time

This study investigated changes in the supervisors' and supervisees' perceptions of the supervisory relationship and the extent to which their perceptions were congruent. Salient dimensions of supervision were identified which predict the quality of the relationship. Twelve supervisory dyads involved in predominantly ongoing supervisory relationships completed an adapted Vanderbilt Psychotherapy Process Scale after each supervisory session for 10 consecutive weeks. The participants' perceptions of the supervisory relationships were relatively stable and positive. However, supervisees felt less dependent over time. With that exception, agreement among participants did not change significantly. Supervisors viewed supervisees' participation and increased assertiveness as significant positive elements in assessing the quality of the relationship. Supervisees' greater exploration and dependency was associated with negative ratings by supervisors. Since supervisors selected the supervisees for the study, the results primarily validate their judgments of the components of a positive continuing supervisory relationship.