The Use of Metaphor in Intersubjective Supervision

In contemporary psychotherapy education, psychotherapy supervision holds immense power and importance regarding preparation and training of psychotherapists (Watkins, 2012). While there is current literature addressing the use of metaphor in psychotherapy (Amundson & Thrift, 2008; Lyddon, Clay, & Sparks, 2001), there is limited literature addressing its use in supervision (Edwards, 2010; Guiffrida, et al., 2012; Sommer & Cox, 2003; Valadex & Garcia, 1998). Moreover, while Breyer (2013) has discussed the use of metaphor in intersubjective therapy, there is no available literature specifically addressing the use of metaphor in intersubjective supervision. This paper aims to introduce and articulate how the exploration and use of metaphor models and supports intersubjective theory and practice. Specific examples are offered related to the use of metaphor and intersubjective methods and interventions such as unknowingness, cotransferences, illumination, co-construction, developmental narratives, charged words/phrases, and creativity and play (co-regulation)