Navigating an Effective Relationship with your Supervisor

This interactive, student-centered workshop, co-facilitated by Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies and Counselling Services, is designed to help graduate students build strong, respectful, and productive relationships with their supervisors and committee members to help support their progress through their graduate programs.

Participants will gain practical tools for communicating expectations, setting boundaries, managing feedback, and navigating academic challenges. Through discussion and reflection, students will develop the confidence and skills to take an active role in their graduate journey and to cultivate collaborative mentorship dynamics.

Participants will be invited to share in chat, vocal, and small group/breakout room discussions. Please note this session won’t be recorded.

Facilitators

Karen Flood, PhD (she/her) is a Registered Psychologist with UBC Counselling Services. Her special interests include her work with graduate students, supporting individuals with the emotional impact of physical health concerns, and the clinical use of online resources such as Therapist Assistance Online (TAO). She is an alumnus of UBC’s Faculty of Education, Dept. of Educational and Counselling Psychology and Special Education.

Laura Reid, J.D. (she/her) is the Acting Associate Director, Student Academic Support in Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. She supports graduate students and faculty in navigating complex academic situations, often including challenges in the supervisory relationship. She holds a law degree from UBC and is currently completing a Certificate in Collaborative Conflict Resolution from the Justice Institute of BC.