Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision
Author ORCID Identifier
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0826-0379
Document Type
Article
Keywords
feminist, imposter phenomenon, imposter syndrome, mentorship
Subject Area
Clinical Supervision, Counselor Education
Abstract
Impostor Phenomenon (IP) is known to affect new professionals in health professions, yet there is little to no academic literature available on how it affects early career counselors and how it can be addressed. Novice counselors (NC) frequently experience extreme anxiety and feelings of fraudulence around their professional performance. Feminist mentorship and interventions can help alleviate IP and foster self-efficacy and confidence in new counseling professionals. The Feminist Impostor Phenomenon Approach (FIPA) consists of a three-hour workshop educating participants through a feminist lens about IP and relevant coping strategies, and subsequent weekly consciousness-raising groups where coping strategies are reinforced, and participants are empowered to be self-efficacious when dealing with feelings of impostorism. A case example is provided.
Public Significance Statement
This study introduces an innovative approach to address Impostor Phenomenon in novice counselors, a critical issue affecting early career professionals' confidence and performance. The Feminist Impostor Phenomenon Approach (FIPA) combines educational workshops with ongoing support groups, potentially enhancing self-efficacy and reducing feelings of fraudulence among new counseling professionals. These findings may improve counselor education and supervision practices, ultimately benefiting client care.
Recommended Citation
Springer, I. & Emelianchik-Key, K. (2026). The feminist impostor phenomenon approach (FIPA): A feminist approach to addressing impostor phenomenon in novice counselors. Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision, 20(1), 1-18.
Third Revision_8_11_25
