The development of the Psychotherapists' Supervision Preferences Questionnaire—Derived from the Proctor Model

Abstract

Background

The Proctor Model describes three core functions of clinical supervision: formative, restorative and normative. While having high face validity as a tool for measuring supervision preferences that can facilitate the formulation of the supervision contract, its construct validity is unclear, and the literature suggests a more all-encompassing model by including a reflective component.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the construct validity of the Proctor Model and use these results to develop a short instrument that can facilitate the formulation of the supervision contract.

Method

Through a literature review and expert discussions, a 28-item inventory was created. After pilot-testing and revisions, the inventory was administered to 204 psychotherapists. These data were analysed with factor analysis, leading to a revised version that was enrolled in a second sample of 125 psychotherapists.

Results

Factor analysis of the first sample suggested a five-factor solution as the formative function consisted of two separate constructs: conceptual (receiving role of the therapist and theoretical focus) and experiential (active role of the therapist, skill-based and feedback-oriented). The restorative function composed of sharing thoughts and feelings and being validated and recognised. Pre-theorised restorative items describe an active handling of distressing feelings loaded on the reflective function. Analysis of the second sample confirmed the suggested five-factor structure and gave support for overall replicated psychometric properties. Regression and correlation analyses showed preliminary evidence for convergent and divergent validity.

Conclusion

The results provide a more nuanced understanding of the Proctor Model and provide the field with a psychometrically sound instrument for the formulation of the supervision contract.