Exploring East Asian International Doctoral Students’ Experiences in Clinical Supervision

Abstract

This dissertation explores the experiences of East Asian international doctoral students in clinical supervision within counselor education programs in the United States. With the increasing enrollment of international students in these programs, understanding their unique challenges and strategies for success in supervision is essential. Using a phenomenological lens and Bandura's human agency theory, this study examines the personal, proxy, and collective agency of 10 East Asian international students (N = 10) in navigating their supervision experiences. The study identifies several barriers that these students face, including linguistic, sociocultural, professional, and systemic barriers. Despite these challenges, the study reveals that East Asian international doctoral students employ self-initiated development strategies, supervisors, and support networks. The study offers significant implications for students, counselor educators, and administrators on enhancing the supervision experience and professional development of East Asian international doctoral students, ultimately contributing to the diversity and cultural competence of the counseling profession.