Hierarchical Privilege and Power in Structural Supervision

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper discusses supervision through a structural family therapy (SFT) lens. SFT aims to alter dysfunctional patterns in exchange for healthy interactions by creating clear hierarchies and boundaries. Families are organized by hierarchies; within this structure, it is common for parents and older adults to be at the top. This mirrors supervision as traditionally the more experienced and higher licensed clinicians are at the top. This paper conveys how clinical supervisors can train, educate, and support while establishing a hierarchical position allowing for isomorphic and bidirectional growth. Additionally, this paper introduces an intervention utilizing hierarchies to address privilege and power.