What does it truly mean to be empathetic in a clinical setting? In this episode, host Dr. Jonathan Douglas sits down with APA author Dr. Douglas Flemons, PhD, LMFT, Professor Emeritus of Family Therapy, to explore the nuance of empathy within psychotherapy. Dr. Flemons discusses the concept of "feeling into" a client’s experience through curiosity and imagination. They dive into the practical application of these skills, the importance of clinical humility, and the powerful role of refraction over mirroring. This conversation offers a profound look at how we bridge the gap between two internal worlds, whether you are a seasoned clinician, a student in training, or simply interested in the mechanics of human connection. Key Topics Covered: The etymological and practical differences between empathy, sympathy, and compassion.Why claiming to fully understand a client can actually hinder the therapeutic process.Using "clinical curiosity" to navigate difficult client histories.The role of the therapist’s own physical and emotional responses in informing treatment.Insights into Dr. Flemons’ latest book, Empathic Engagement in Clinical Practice – an APA published work. About Dr. Douglas Flemons, PhD, LMFT Douglas Flemons, PhD, is Professor Emeritus of Family Therapy at Nova Southeastern University, where he taught and supervised clinical graduate students for 30 years. During his academic career, Dr. Flemons directed his program’s training clinic, created and directed the university’s Student Counseling Center, and was co-director of the university’s Office of Suicide and Violence Prevention. He is the author of six books and sixty articles and book chapters that illuminate a relational approach to psychotherapy, clinical hypnosis, suicide assessment, and empathy. His most recent book, Empathic Engagement in Clinical Practice, and its companion video, Empathy in Therapy, were published in 2026 by the American Psychological Association. Douglas and his wife, with whom he co-edited three editions of Quickies: The Handbook of Brief Sex Therapy, currently co-direct their private practice and training institute, Context Consultants, from their home in North Carolina.
