The Practitioner's Heart
The Practitioner’s Heart offers practical Buddhist wisdom to help therapists and healthcare workers stay grounded, open, and connected in their work and daily lives. Hosted by psychologist and Buddhist practitioner Poh Gan, this podcast explores how to integrate mindfulness, compassion, and awareness into real‑world clinical practice—beyond theory and into lived experience. Each episode includes gentle reflections, sharing of buddhist teachings, and conversations with fellow practitioners walking a similar spiritual path. Whether you’re seeking to calm a busy mind, deepen your inner resources, or reconnect with purpose, this is a space to feel supported, inspired, and part of a community of helpers cultivating clarity and an open heart.
The Practitioner's Heart
The Invisible Emotional Load of a Therapist: How to Hold Space Without Being Consumed
In this episode of the Practitioner's Heart podcast, host Poh Gan explores the 'invisible emotional load' that therapists often carry. Drawing on Mahayana Buddhist psychology, Poh shares insights into how thoughts and emotions are like dust on a mirror—transient and not defining who we are. The episode discusses practical techniques for therapists to manage stress and emotional weight, offering a blend of theory and actionable advice. Poh also emphasizes the importance of recognizing and releasing emotions, ultimately fostering a practice of compassion without being overwhelmed. The episode includes practical examples, insights into handling empathy and compassion fatigue, and guidance on maintaining emotional clarity and balance.
00:00 Introduction to the Practitioner's Heart
02:21 The Emotional Load of a Therapist
04:15 Understanding Emotions Through a Buddhist Lens
06:42 The Concept of Emptiness in Buddhism
09:14 Practical Applications in Therapy
12:43 Managing Emotional Reactions
15:55 Therapeutic Presence and Compassion
22:28 Concluding Thoughts and Practices
25:26 Closing Remarks