ABSTRACT
This chapter offers an exposition of an attachment narrative framework in individual clinical supervision and for personal and professional development. In both therapeutic work and supervision, curiosity and creative problem-solving require trust and the ability to rely on the accessibility and responsiveness of the other. supervisory relationship provides a secure base for exploration and a safe haven when reassurance is needed; it provides a structure with clear roles and boundaries; it requires a commitment from both participants; the supervisor can be a role model, as can the supervisee in the context of reflexive education; and formative feedback can ground a developing sense of competence and confidence in an ever-emergent professional identity. A secure emotional connection in the supervision relationship promotes positive threat mediation. The systemic and narrative traditions of therapeutic practice share some ideas and approaches that can be useful in the supervision process.
