An eight-eyed version of Hawkins and Shohet's clinical supervision model: the addition of the cognitive analytic therapy concept of the ‘observing eye/I’ as the ‘observing us’

Abstract

This paper proposes incorporating the concept of the ‘observing eye/I’, from cognitive analytic therapy (CAT), to Hawkins and Shohet's seven modes of supervision, comprising their transtheoretical model of supervision. Each mode is described alongside explicit examples relating to CAT. This modification using a key idea from CAT (in the form of the addition of a Mode 8 ‘observing us’) enhances the model's utility in supervisory practice. With this adaptation, the model could also be used, with greater breadth and depth, in therapies where the primary focus is not relational. The collaboratively reflexive ‘observing us’ ensures that the very process of supervision is effectively monitored and attended to. The inclusion of this eighth level leads to more formal emphasis on the meta communication and meta commentary levels in supervision.

Keywords:

• reflection
• learning
• therapy
• supervision
• CAT
• Hawkins and Shohet

Acknowledgements

Thanks are due to Debbie Pickvance who made comments on an earlier version of this paper.

Notes on contributors

Dr Jurai Darongkamas is a consultant clinical psychologist, both in the National Health Service (NHS) and in private practice. She is director of the W. Midlands CAT practitioner course, an accredited CAT practitioner, trainer and supervisor, CBT therapist and EMDR practitioner. She provides individual, couple and group therapy, consultation and supervision. Her psychology experience spans 23 years.

Dr. Christopher John is a chartered clinical psychologist working within an NHS adult community mental health team. He is interested in all aspects of mental health, with a particular focus on cognitive-behavioural and cognitive analytic therapies.

Mark J Walker is a CAT practitioner, trainer and supervisor and is a co-trainer on the Oxford CAT Practitioner Course. He works as a psychological therapist in the NHS and has a private practice offering individual psychotherapy, clinical supervision and consultancy.