Are you allowed to supervise a close relative or friend?

• A. Yes
• B. Only with consent
• C. Only with board approval
• D. No

Answer: (D)

Maintaining professional boundaries in supervision is essential. Supervisors must evaluate and guide a supervisee in a way that protects client welfare and ensures objective, unbiased feedback.

Supervising a close relative or friend creates a dual relationship and a power dynamic that can bias judgments, compromise confidentiality, and undermine the supervisee’s ability to receive candid feedback. Even with good intentions or mutual consent, this setup makes it hard to separate personal loyalties from professional responsibilities, risking harm to clients and the integrity of the supervision process. Therefore, this arrangement is not permitted. If you find yourself in this situation, seek supervision from someone who does not have a close personal relationship with you.