Recent studies in counselor training have focused on the trainee/supervisor relationship, with little empirical research on the supervisor and trainee qualities that may contribute to a successful experience. To explore the supervisor and trainee characteristics that may contribute to high quality training, 40 pairs of trainees and supervisors in the clinical psychology internship program from New York University-Bellevue Medical Center, completed separate evaluation forms designed to rate supervisor and trainee characteristics. Each form contained an overall rating, ratings on three dimensions related to skill level in academic and clinical issues, and ratings on three dimensions related to relationship issues. An analysis of the results showed that supervisors who were responsive to the trainee's interests and needs, were available, and were highly skilled in conceptual issues, were rated most highly. Guiding trainees to relevant clinical literature was negatively correlated with the rating of the supervisor. Trainees who were rated most highly were those who were aware of and willing to discuss reactions to the patients. Trainees' skills in conceptualization and treatment of patients were rated as less important than the relationship. Overall, trainees preferred purist supervisors and supervisors preferred flexible trainees. (BL)