In this follow-up to our episode on empathy, Aaron and Nathan shift the focus to compassion—what it is, how it’s different from empathy, and why it can be a more sustainable way of helping others without burning out.

Compassion isn’t about getting swept up in someone else’s emotions or rushing them toward change. It’s about feeling for someone while staying grounded, holding both care and perspective at the same time. Using clinical examples, metaphors (including quicksand), and real therapy moments, this episode explores how compassion allows you to stay present, patient, and effective—without fusing, pushing, or losing yourself.

You’ll hear:

The core difference between feeling with someone (empathy) and feeling for someone (compassion)

Why compassion includes intention, pacing, and respect for what someone can tolerate

How helpers can accidentally rush healing—or want change more than the other person

The role of boundaries, groundedness, and patience in real compassion

Why compassion is often quieter, steadier, and more sustainable than empathy

This episode is especially relevant for therapists, helpers, and caregivers—but it’s just as valuable for anyone who wants to support others well without overfunctioning or burning out.

Aaron Potratz & Nathan Hawkins are behavioral health experts, licensed counselors, and clinical supervisors with over 35 years of experience. They each own a private group therapy practice and co-own a third one together. Aaron is also a business consultant for therapists in private practice wanting to start, grow, or expand their business.

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