The Three-Legged Stool of Supervision

Pastoral work is deeply rewarding—but it can also be challenging, isolating, and emotionally demanding. Supervision offers a space to reflect, grow, and recharge, ensuring you don’t just survive in ministry, but truly thrive. One of the best ways to understand the core benefits of supervision is through the metaphor of a Three-Legged Stool.

This model highlights the three essential functions that supervision provides to keep you and your work in balance:

Normative (Accountability & Ethics) – Supervision helps you stay grounded in professional, theological, and ethical standards. Without this, supervision risks becoming too informal, potentially leading to ethical missteps. By regularly engaging in accountability, you gain clarity and confidence in your decision-making.

Formative (Learning & Growth) – Supervision is about continuous learning and skill-building. It sharpens your self-awareness, strengthens your pastoral identity, and deepens your reflective practice. In short, it ensures you’re not just going through the motions, but growing in your conviction and calling.

Restorative (Well-being & Support) – Ministry can be emotionally and spiritually draining. Supervision provides a safe, confidential space to process challenges, receive encouragement, and prevent burnout. Without this support, it’s easy to experience compassion fatigue and reduced effectiveness in your role.

Why This Matters for You

Think of a three-legged stool—if one leg is missing or weak, it collapses. The same is true for pastoral supervision.

🔸 Too much focus on well-being? You might feel supported but lack the accountability to grow.
🔸 Over-emphasis on rules and standards? Supervision can feel rigid and unsupportive.
🔸 All about learning and skills? You may push yourself too hard without prioritising your emotional health.

By balancing all three, supervision creates a sustainable, ethical, and empowering environment that supports your development, well-being, and professional integrity.

If you’re looking for a space where you can reflect, grow, and be supported in your work, supervision is a powerful tool to help you stay grounded, inspired, and effective. Are you ready to invest in your well-being and professional growth? Book a session here or fill out the form below with your question and I’ll be in touch as soon as I can.