Reflecting on the past, in the present, in order to improve the future turns history into learning.

Paterson & Rose, 2014

Pastoral Supervision offers a regular, intentional and boundaried space within which a person can explore their professional practice with the aim of continually growing in their work. It is based upon reflective practice and situated within a relationship built upon trust, respect, confidentiality, openness and support. It can be offered one-to-one or in a group setting.

Within the context of ministry, there is theological under-pinning as well as an appreciation of psychology and the importance of context. It differs from both spiritual direction and counselling in that it is focused on the professional working role of the supervisee, but there will be elements of overlap. Ultimately the supervisor seeks to help the supervisee to grow in their ministry, accountability and self-awareness, whilst reducing the burdensome weight that often is associated with the role.

Who would benefit from Pastoral Supervision?

In many ways, the whole church, as whilst it is often accessed by those in a leadership position or offering pastoral or spiritual care, good supervision indirectly impacts each person around the supervisee. Supervision is mandatory in several caring roles, such as counselling, whereby someone is “bringing themselves” as much as their training and experience. This professional oversight helps, ultimately, to protect those receiving support and care.

Within the church, the sort of people who would benefit from Pastoral Supervision are those who are in recognised ministries, leading a team, engaged in significant listening roles, working with young or marginalised people, or are aware that, whatever their role, their work is impacted by their own emotional and spiritual life.

Supervision can help such people cope better with the demands on their time and energy, become aware of hidden dynamics in their working relationships, and seek where further training or support might be needed. The benefit comes from a range of issues, including but not limited to:

• We feel our own “buttons pressed” when dealing with a particular issue, person or group.
• We are aware that we might be close to (or have) crossed professional boundaries.
• We are encountering resistance or conflict, within ourselves or with others.
• We find ourselves carrying other people’s stories and troubles for too long.
• We feel we have done something well and wish to capture the experience and learning.
• We find ourselves stuck or struggling with perspective.
• We are uneasy around something and are just not sure why.
• We have had a difficult encounter and want to improve for the future.

What are the practicalities?

Supervision can be offered on an individual basis or in a group setting. The group setting may be from your work e.g. if you work as part of a team ministry, or a group of people in a similar role. Meeting happening every 6-8 weeks or so, and cost around £30-£50 per session. Many supervisors now offer online sessions as well as in-person. Pastoral Supervisors do not need to be accredited but many are, usually via the Association for Pastoral Supervision and Education (APSE).

How do I find a Supervisor?

You might know someone who offers Pastoral Supervision (perhaps from a different professional background) and you may wish to approach them in the first instance. If this person is a good friend or you already have some sort of working relationship, you may wish to be cautious when discerning this relationship as it may alter any equilibrium you already have. If the person you know is not suitable – for whatever reason – they may be able to offer some names. Your priest or rector may be able to do likewise.

Thereafter, APSE have a comprehensive list of supervisors who are accredited by them, whilst a slightly different list is held on the Church of Scotland’s Ascent portal.