CROSS-CULTURAL SUPERVISION: CLINICAL SUPERVISORS’ PERCEPTION OF WORKING WITH INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Abstract

Supervision theories or models have traditionally not been centered on cross-cultural supervision (e.g., American clinical supervisors working with international trainees). To this end, this qualitative study sought to explore cross-cultural supervision from the perspective of clinical supervisors. A total number of 10 supervisors participated in the current study. Three themes emerged from the supervisors’ data: (1) systemic issues, acculturation, and power differential; (2) reciprocal learning and supervisory relationship; and (3) effective supervision strategies. Findings may help advance clinical supervision with international students, enable mental health professionals and training programs better understand the cross-cultural supervision process with international trainees