This paper deals with how supervisory relationships contain, through the complex dynamics they often evoke, a strong therapeutic effect. It further explores how the “real relationship” between patient and therapist may actually presuppose the therapist’s supervision of the patient’s life. This supervisory dimension of the therapy is further discussed as both possible inhibitor and facilitator of the patient’s autonomy, as well as a possible outgrowth of the therapist’s own autonomous psychic process.