February 2020 Clinical Supervision Topic: Empathy

For February, we’ll continue building our clinical foundation with the common factors by focusing on empathy. As you know, empathy is one of the primary predictors of positive outcomes. Your ability to understand your client’s worldview, feelings, needs, etc. leads them to feel safe with you, trust you, and get curious about how things can improve. It increases the chances of them coming back to you for services, and the longer a client is engaged in services, the more likely they will achieve their goals.

Carl Rogers is one of my favorite teachers when it comes to empathy. Here’s his seminal article on the topic (along with a few other core concepts of his) and here is a nice overview on empathy. We’ll be referencing the latter in our sessions for February. You can also check out podcasts. Here’s one by Dr. David Puder, a psychiatrist I really like, and here’s one by Dr. David Burns, the man who wrote Feeling Good. Listen, I realize all of these resources are by white guys. The mental health field has long been dominated by white men, many of whom have done good work. But it’s problematic as well. I’ve reached out to my network to find some additional resources, and will update this once I do. If you have some, let me know.

News: I have a new office. Starting in February, all my in-person appointments (EXCEPT my Monday evening group) will be at 1920 N. Killingsworth St. I will email you the building code. I will be here Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Any other appointments will be by video.

As a reminder, groups are currently:

2nd Mondays 5:30-7:30pm at Taborspace

2nd Sundays 3:30-5:30pm at Killingsworth

3rd Sundays 3:30-5:30pm at Killingsworth

3rd Thursdays 11am-1pm at Killingsworth

I really value the work we all do together. You are all growing and each time we meet I see increased critical thinking of modalities and frameworks, increased willingness to reflect on your work and take in feedback, and increased skillfulness in compassion, empathy and other foundational skills. The process of deliberate practice is quiet and can feel slow, but it matters a lot. And thank you as always for referrals- the number of you working with me over the last twelve months tripled! I think this is because you crave growth and knowledge and someone who sees your highest potential as a clinician and helps you get there. It’s incredible for me to do this along side you.

As always, reach out with questions, concerns or feedback.