Semester Award Granted

Summer 2025

Submission Date

July 2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Kelly Emelianchik-Key

Abstract

This multi-manuscript dissertation illustrates the progression from theoretical development to practical intervention research in counselor supervision, introducing innovative supervisory practices in counselor education that balance well-being with academic rigor, addressing counselor trainees' common challenges such as anxiety, burnout, and limited self-efficacy. Following a literature review, this dissertation bridges theory and practice by offering counselor educators and supervisors a comprehensive, evidence-informed approach to developing resilient, competent, and psychologically well counseling professionals. The research progresses through three interconnected phases using qualitative and quantitative methods. Constructivist grounded theory (CGT) explores counselor trainees' supervisory experiences, highlighting the significance of responsive supervisory relationships and validation. The insights from CGT led to developing the relational-supportive supervision theory (RSST), emphasizing structured feedback, deliberate practice, and relationship as central. To operationalize RSST, the BRIDGE framework was developed, providing structured and actionable supervisory strategies. In the second phase, conceptual research synthesizes RSST and the BRIDGE framework with dialectical behavior therapy, resulting in the Dialectical Behavior Supervision (DBS) model, explicitly addressing trainees' well-being, self-efficacy, and competency needs. Finally, the third phase involves a quasi-experimental intervention study where master's-level counselor trainees (N=50) participated in DBS groups of 4-8 peers over an 8-week period concurrent with their field experience courses. Paired t-tests of pre- and post-intervention data demonstrated significant improvements in psychological well-being, self-efficacy, and clinical competency. These findings offer practical insights for counselor supervision, positioning DBS as a promising approach for supporting counselor growth and well-being. Future studies could strengthen the evidence for DBS by employing randomized controlled trials and exploring DBS in diverse settings

Download

Share

COinS