EXAMPLES
LOCATION OF SELF STATEMENTS FOR CLINICAL SUPERVISORS
UNIQUE PAGE COUNSELING AND CONSULTING
PORTLAND, OR
THE FORMAT
A. Identify Core Aspects of Identity:
Race/Ethnicity: Asian American
Gender: Non-binary
Sexual Orientation: Queer
Political Activism: Advocate for climate justice (CJ)
C.ReflectonImportanceandImpact:
Whyaretheyimportant?
B. Select Aspects for Disclosure:
Race/Ethnicity: Asian American
Political Activism: Advocate for CJ
Sexual Orientation: Queer
Race/Ethnicity:BeingAsianAmericanshapesmyperspectivesandexperiences, influencinghowIrelatetoothersandunderstandculturaldynamics.
PoliticalActivism:Myadvocacyforclimatejusticereflectsmycommitment toenvironmentalsustainabilityandsocialequity,valuescentraltomypersonal andprofessionalidentity.
SexualOrientation:Identifyingasqueerinformsmyunderstandingofdiverse sexualidentitiesandexperiences,whichIintegrateintomyapproachto therapy.
D.Howaretheyimportanttoyourroleasasupervisor?
Race/Ethnicity:Myracialidentityhelpsmebuildempathyandfosteraninclusive environmentforclientsfromvariousbackgrounds.Italsoshapesmyapproachto discussionsaboutraceandsystemicissues.
PoliticalActivism:MycommitmenttoclimatejusticeinfluenceshowIapproach conversationsaboutsystemicchallengesandresilience,encouragingaholistic viewofclients'socio-politicalcontexts
SexualOrientation:Beingqueerenablesmetosupportandvalidatediversesexual orientationsandidentities,creatingasafespaceforclientstoexploreand expresstheirownexperiences
E. Example of this Supervisor’s Location of Self
As a Japanese American, non-binary, queer supervisor, my identity is a vibrant tapestry that profoundly shapes my approach to supervision. My Japanese heritage enriches my understanding of cultural dynamics and fosters a deep empathy for the diverse experiences of others. My unwavering commitment to climate justice reflects my passion for environmental and social equity, guiding me in addressing systemic challenges and fostering resilience. Embracing my queer identity enables me to create a welcoming, affirming space where all clients can explore their sexual orientations and experiences with authenticity. Together, these elements of my identity inform and inspire my commitment to building an inclusive, compassionate, and transformative supervisory relationship.
COUNSELING + CONSULTING
A FEW MORE EXAMPLES
"As a queer, Black woman raised in a working-class community, my identity shapes the lens through which I approach supervision. My commitment to social justice, particularly in the areas of racial equity and LGBTQ+ rights, drives my desire to create an inclusive and affirming environment for all. I bring a deep understanding of the impact of systemic oppression on mental health and prioritize creating spaces where clients and supervisees feel seen and valued. My experiences with navigating marginalization have also taught me the importance of resilience and community, which I strive to embody in my supervisory relationships."
EXAMPLES
"Being a white, cisgender male who identifies as Christian and a strong advocate for environmental justice, I am aware of the privilege I carry and the responsibility it brings. I actively work to deconstruct my own biases and strive to use my position to amplify marginalized voices My faith informs my belief in the inherent worth of all individuals, and my commitment to environmental sustainability shapes my focus on the interconnectedness of all life. In supervision, I aim to foster growth that acknowledges these intersections, encouraging supervisees to consider their impact on both people and the planet."
"Identifying as a Latina, heterosexual woman who is passionate about Free Palestine and economic justice, I bring a perspective to supervision that emphasizes the importance of solidarity and collective action. My experiences with economic hardship and political activism have shaped my belief in the power of communities to create change. I encourage my supervisees to explore how their identities influence their work and to remain committed to principles of equity and justice. My goal is to support supervisees in developing a practice that is not only clinically effective but also socially responsible."
"As a first-generation immigrant from a Muslim background, with a disability, and a strong supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement, my identity deeply informs my work as a supervisor. My lived experiences with navigating multiple marginalized identities allow me to connect with clients and supervisees who face similar struggles. I am committed to challenging systemic inequities within the therapeutic space and advocating for those who are often silenced. My supervision is rooted in a belief that true healing involves addressing both personal and societal levels of harm, and I encourage my supervisees to engage in this work with both courage and compassion "
AND ANOTHER ONE
"As a gender non-conforming, neurodivergent, White person who aligns with the principles of transformative justice, I approach supervision with a focus on inclusivity, empathy, and accountability. My personal journey of self-discovery and acceptance has taught me the value of creating spaces where individuals can be their authentic selves. I am deeply committed to dismantling oppressive structures within the mental health field and supporting my supervisees in navigating their own identities and ethical dilemmas. However, I recognize that I am still growing in my understanding of the nuances within various political movements, especially those that intersect with experiences different from my own. This ongoing learning process is a key part of my supervisory approach, as I actively seek to expand my perspective and encourage my supervisees to do the same. My supervision style is collaborative and reflective, aiming to empower supervisees to challenge the status quo, advocate for their clients and themselves, and engage thoughtfully with the complexities of social justice work."
KEEP UPDATING PRACTICING
KEEP UP
LOCATION OF SELF
makes no
demand of perfection, only a willingness to stand in the heat of ugly, painful legacies in us and others, to persist into skillfulness and its variations, and to take heart in authentic showing-up.”
thandiwe Dee Watts-Jones, PhD, LMFT