ABSTRACT

The strengths-based model inspired a unique stance to family therapist's interactions with professors, peers, and clients. The strengths-based perspective invites supervisors and supervisees to co-create an environment in which strengths can be shared, observed, and learned from one another. The variety of training levels in each team was a phenomenal approach to encourage learning from each other. Conversations in these teams took on multiple important topics including professional development, case conceptualization, systemic factors, and good old-fashioned brainstorming. Clients were made aware of strengths-based approach and often enjoyed the feedback from the multiple perspectives on the team that the co-therapists took back to them when returning to the therapy room for the remainder of the therapy hour. To expand the boundaries of traditional mental health in supervision practice, we recommend beginning with incorporating biopsychosocial models to promote whole person care.