Repeated exposure to chronically difficult stories can strain our sense of empathy for others: We can become hardened and desensitized to suffering – or conversely, we can feel easily swallowed up by pain and suffering. This erosion can be further magnified by limited resources, chronic exposure and “red tape.”  Professionals and individuals working in high-stress environments can learn how to shield themselves while remaining able to experience compassion for those who turn to them for support and resources. This “sweet spot” has been described by some experts as “exquisite empathy”: caring just the right amount. Inspired by Françoise Mathieu’s recent Tedx Talk, this keynote explores the tools required to develop exquisite empathy and the ability to rapidly return to a healthy baseline while working in challenging, high volume environments

About Francoise:
Françoise is a Registered Psychotherapist and a compassion fatigue specialist. Her experience stems from over 20+ years as a mental health professional, working as crisis counsellor and trauma specialist in hospital, university counselling, military, law enforcement and other community mental health environments. Françoise is co-executive director of TEND, whose aim is to offer consulting and training to helpers on topics related to secondary trauma, compassion fatigue, burnout, self-care, wellness and organizational health.