Dear Brutus: dealing with unresponsiveness through supervision

Psychotherapists often demonstrate unresponsiveness as a result of the influence of the psychotherapy subculture. Psychiatric residents and teachers in examining themselves may find this tendency which can be countered through psychotherapy supervision. The supervisor can help the resident to be more responsive by discussing the prevalence and dangers of unresponsiveness, and by showing example. The supervisor should make appropriate references to his own work as well as to some life experiences. Residents with a variety of backgrounds and interests in psychiatry, and teachers with varied experiences and eclectic orientations are less likely to encourage unresponsiveness than those with a predominating interest in psychotherapy alone. Teaching and supervision can encourage the developing psychotherapist toward a natural and appropriately responsive therapeutic style.