Handling Resistance

Resistance is when a supervisee does not agree with staff’s direction. It is disagreement or discord.

Resist the urge to immediately fix the supervisee (the righting reflex), instead invite the supervisee to share their perspective.
Avoid arguing with a supervisee about why they should change, because you place the supervisee in the position of arguing why they should not change.
View supervisee resistance as an indication that you need to change your strategy. Use a strategic response.
Avoid coercing and trying to control the supervisee. Use interactions that demonstrate the spirit of motivational interviewing: collaboration, acceptance, compassion, and evocation.
Look for opportunities to make sure the supervisee understands your role.