ABSTRACT
In this chapter the author’s definition of compassion is provided along with further description of how to enact this. Compassion invites a reflection about the daily world of a person and shows a commitment to understanding and connection. This includes the conveying of hope and belief that people are capable of change and taking action to reduce suffering and strengthen safety. Overall, compassion can contribute to a sense of rewarding professional fulfilment and connection, reducing emotional labour.
Supervisors can also help workers practice self-compassion which can reduce stress and promote wellness. The concepts of self-compassion and self-forgiveness are also explored to help supervisees manage practice mistakes and reduce rumination, recrimination, and regret. Practicing self-compassion reduces harsh or self-criticising comments, decreases negative self-bias, identifies the inner critic, and replaces it all with kind gentler reframes (self-kindness). This supports emotional regulation promoting calm and contentment, increases self-soothing when stressed. An ability to do this gives greater capacity to act compassionately in other contexts.
