Dissertation Defense

Experience of Role Discernment and Disclosure in Triadic Supervision:

A Phenomenological Study of Counseling Students

Marlise R. Lonn, MS, LPC-S, NCC

Doctoral Candidate, Department of Counseling

Date & Time: Thursday, April 9, 2015 at 10:00 a.m.

Location: BV 1.338

Dissertation Chair: Gerald Juhnke, Ph.D.

Dissertation Committee Members:  Michael Moyer, Ph.D., Janeé Avent, Ph.D. &

Hope Bell, Ph.D.

Triadic supervision is frequently utilized in counseling programs.  However there is a paucity of research on the experiences of student counselors’ triadic supervision experiences. This phenomenological study focused on the experience of student counselors engaged in triadic supervision during practicum.  The purpose was to understand two aspects of participants’ triadic supervision experience - role discernment and relevant disclosure.  Ten ethnically diverse female participants were interviewed for this project.  Interviews allowed participants to explore their experiences and understanding of role discernment and disclosure as a new supervisee in the triadic supervision setting.   Transcendental phenomenological analysis revealed results for each area of inquiry. Results yielded three subsequent themes related to role discernment: the experience of newness, dependence on supervisor, and impact of supervision.  The essence of participant’s role discernment experience was changed perception of self and other.  Inquiry into disclosure experiences yielded the following themes: relationships, presence of peer, and sharing time.  The essence of participants’ disclosure experience was identified as heightened awareness.  Specific implications for supervisors and counselor educators related to facilitating effective triadic supervision are explored and student counselors’ need for pre-supervision preparation is addressed.