The Stories of Gay Men in Social Work Supervision: A Qualitative Exploration

Abstract

This qualitative study is the first to examine the post-graduate clinical supervision experiences of 13 self-identified gay men. In the interviews, five main themes emerged: limited or assigned supervisors, coming out philosophies, educating the educator, the supervisory relationship and client outcomes, and no community. The findings of this research begin a discussion on the barriers that gay supervisees face when locating a good fit supervisor. Alarmingly, there are still homophobic supervisors to whom some gay supervisees were assigned, which negatively impacted supervisee well-being and perceived client outcomes. Additionally, the study illuminates the mental calculus gay supervisees often face when coming out to supervisors and clients, highlighting the importance of supervisor cultural humility and competence when working with queer supervisees. Also concerning is the shortage of conversation about coming out and queer culture in supervision. Although the study examined social work supervision, this research is important for all behavioral health fields. Recommendations for theory, research, and supervision are discussed.

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