Toward Discursive Presence

Abstract

Many approaches to self-supervision are conducted within a liberal humanist framework which configures the individual as an autonomous unitary being. From this perspective, the self is located within an individualistic framework, dislocated from the socio-cultural and socio-historical context. As a result, the impact of culture on the self-supervisor can sometimes be ignored or underestimated leading to culturally inappropriate actions with clients. This article introduces a social constructionist metaphor, demonstrates its relevance to the field of self-supervision, and highlights its value as an orientation to enhance the cultural sensitivity of therapy. In addition, a social constructionist metaphor offers a new range of self-supervision practices that pay special attention to the multiplicity, contextuality, and active construction of meaning. a series of practical tools are presented to assist therapists to become more critical, intentional, reflexive and socially just in their work. [Article copies available for a fee from the haworth document delivery service: 1-800-HAWORTH. E-mail address: <docdelivery@haworthpress.com> Website: <http://www.HaworthPress.com>