A Qualitative meta-analysis of supervisees' negative experiences in counseling and psychotherapy

The purpose of this study is to explore supervisees' negative experiences in counseling and psychotherapy in South Korea. To achieve this objective, a qualitative meta-analysis was conducted on qualitative research data in this field. A qualitative meta-analysis is a research method that synthesizes qualitative studies on a similar topic to provide new interpretations. Seven papers were selected for final analysis. Upon comparison and synthesis of the selected studies, the findings revealed three categories, nine theme clusters, and 24 themes. The theme clusters within each category are as follows. ‘Supervisors' impersonal attitudes’ include non-accepting attitudes, biased attitudes, indifferent attitudes, and punitive attitudes. ‘Supervisors' lack of professional competence’ includes inadequate intervention, irresponsible case management, and unprofessional qualities. ‘The oppressive structure and communication in ‘supervision’ include authoritative relationships and one-way communication. Based on these findings, explanations and discussions were provided. The results of this study had implications for the importance and content of supervisor education by revealing the characteristics of supervisors' negative experiences. Finally, the significance and limitations of the study were outlined, and suggestions for future research were proposed.