Received: April 28, 2019 Revised: June 15, 2019 Accepted: June 24, 2019
Abstract
In this qualitative research study, we explored the sustainability factors of therapists who received continuous counseling after qualification. We conducted individual, face-to face interviews with four therapists for two weeks between May and June 2018. The second and third data collection phases involved follow-up by phone or email when necessary. We applied topic analysis to our data and in the process arrived at four perspectives on the sustainability factors of supervision. The four themes were “Being helpful” “Being a good learning experience,” “Recognizing the need for a third party,” and “Discovering possibilities.” “Being helpful” is the factor of continuing the supervision and involves “Being psychologically stable,” “Knowing one’s limits” and “Deepening the understanding of clients.” We classified “Being a good learning experience” as “Reflecting on oneself,” “Learning through participation and observation” and “Understanding human beings.” We defined “Recognizing the need for a third party” as the ability of therapists to see their blind spots. The fourth persistent factor is “Discovering possibilities,” and applies equally to both the therapist and the client as they discover their potential.