The Doctoral Student as University Supervisor: Challenges in Fulfilling the Gatekeeping Role

Doctoral students in counselor education programs play a crucial role in the observation and evaluation of master’s students. Transparency and more explicit training for doctoral students in evaluation, remediation, and gatekeeping practices could prevent gate slippage. To evidence this, we explore literature related to gatekeeping practices and doctoral students as novice university supervisors. A case example illustrates issues facing doctoral students serving as gatekeeper in clinical supervision of master’s-level counseling students with suggestions for programs.