Event Detail



Institute Sypmposium

 

Wednesday May 27th, 1pm to 2pm 2026

Goodness of Fit: A Relational Approach to Field Instruction

Ornstein, Eric D.; Moses, Helene

Journal of Teaching in Social Work, v30 n1 p101-114 2010

This article uses the metaphor of "goodness of fit" to highlight the core features of a relational approach to field instruction (supervision). The distinctive attributes of this approach are contrasted with a traditional model of field instruction. The "teach or treat" dilemma is discussed to demonstrate the necessity for field instructors to maintain the delicate balance between a therapeutic and an educational stance in their work with students. The most compelling contribution of a relational approach to field instruction is when the fit between a field instructor and a student is problematic. At these difficult moments, a relational approach offers alternatives that might not be possible in other approaches to supervision. Vignettes are offered throughout the article to illustrate these points.

 Eric Ornstein is an experienced therapist and researcher with over 15 published articles in the areas of community group treatment, supervision, relational theory and practice, parallel processes, regression and self disclosure and field work. Experienced Clinician and Social Work Educator. Eric is also a Leader of Social Work / Psychotherapy Consultation Group, Individual and Group Supervision, and Teacher.

Participants are asked to be aware of the need for privacy and confidentiality throughout the program. The Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute maintains responsibility for this program and its content. CPI is licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to sponsor continuing education credits for (license numbers in parentheses): Social Workers (159.000122), Professional Counselors (197.000202), Marriage and Family Therapy Therapists (168.00204), and Clinical Psychologists (268.000091). 

Eligible professionals will receive 1.0 continuing education credits for attending the entire program. To receive these credits an evaluation form must be completed online. Learners must claim the amount of time spent in the educational activity and that will be the amount of credit they will earn. 

Continuing Education credits (CMEs) are not available for physicians for this program.