Clinical psychologists' experiences of addressing spiritual issues in supervision: an interpretative phenomenological analysis

Abstract Background Psychological therapists have found spirituality a complex and confusing subject to work with in therapy and research (e.g. Jackson & Coyle, 2009). However, little is known about the role supervision may play in maintaining or resolving this situation (Miller, Korinek & Ivey, 2006). Aim To explore how clinical psychologists address spiritual issues in supervision, using the qualitative methodology of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA, Smith, 1996). Method Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of seven clinical psychologists who had addressed or attempted to address spiritual issues in supervision. Results Three superordinate themes emerged from data analysis: The Ineffable Nature of Spirituality: How and why spirituality is difficult to put into words; Struggles with Spirituality: Consequent interpersonal and intrapersonal tensions; Negotiating Struggles: How participants managed the difficulties faced. Conclusions Whereas previous literature has implied that spirituality itself can be the “elephant in the room”, this study suggests the “elephant” is the inherent struggle involved when addressing spirituality in therapy and supervision. Engaging with spirituality in supervision requires ongoing management of tensions related to spirituality. Making implicit processes in supervision explicit may facilitate this process