Sacred Space: Student Supervisees' Experiences of Spiritual Issues

Abstract

In this phenomenological study, we explored student supervisees’ experiences of spiritual issues during practicum. Six participants from programs accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs completed a demographic questionnaire and a semistructured interview. Participants reported experiences of internal tension due to spiritual issues and expressed hesitation in discussing spiritual issues with supervisors, prior to seeking resolution through reflecting on their counselor training, engaging in discussion with their supervisor depending on the comfort level in the relationship, and seeking outside support. Recommendations for counselor educators and supervisors are provided.