Abstract An analysis was made of 22 supervision groups in two psychotherapy training programmes at different levels. Its main focus concerned role patterns based on self-image ratings and changes over time. The results showed no significant differences between the two categories of supervisees, whereas the differences between the supervisors and the supervisees, independent of level of training, were highly significant. The results indicate that it is just as difficult to find one's voice and role in a supervision group at an advanced as at a basic level. For the supervisors the result was interpreted in terms of their roles in relation to the supervisees and the aim of the supervision.