Est. 2015
Specialised coaching and resources for therapists
and psychologists who are at risk of burnout
A very warm welcome, and thanks for dropping by. We’re currently preparing to release the second edition of Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) scheduled for publication in 2026. This updated edition will feature a new foreword by Meriel Stanton, an accomplished psychologist and psychotherapist, as well as a new introduction by Dr Bernice Sant, an experienced peak performance psychologist. The foreword to the first edition, written by medical doctor and wellness pioneer, Dr Barbara Mariposa, will also be included in the second edition.Please check back closer to the time for more details about the updated workbook, as well as upcoming specialised coaching offerings and retreats designed specifically for therapists and psychologists.In the meantime, for more information, or to claim your guided meditation audio recordings which were included in the first edition, email us today at [email protected]
Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP)
First Edition — Published in 2015
Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (First Edition)
featured in the HuffPost UK back in 2016
© Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP). All rights reserved 2026. UK & EU.
[email protected]
Est. 2015
About
Specialised coaching to prevent
burnout and restore clarity
Since its first publication and specialised coaching services back in 2015, we’ve always had health professionals in mind. Over time, our clarity has deepened, and our commitment to coaching therapists and psychologists has become increasingly focused and purposeful.Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) provides specialised coaching and resources to therapists and psychologists who are at risk of burnout and emotional exhaustion, helping them cultivate resilience and experience greater clarity.We understand and deeply appreciate the challenges that come with being a successful, in-demand therapist, counsellor, or psychologist. From nurturing your own mental and emotional health, to holding space for your clients, to the professional isolation that can often come with the role—all while navigating your own personal life—this work can be both rewarding and depleting.Burnout and exhaustion are common risks over the span of a long career in mental health or peak performance psychology. And recovering from extreme fatigue is rarely straightforward; it’s often a long, draining process. And so, it makes sense to invest in your future by establishing strong, sustainable support—carefully placed structures that help you avoid burnout, rather than facing a potential 9–12 month recovery period. In more severe cases, recovery can stretch to 14–16 months.The data around burnout in your profession is consistent, though the degree of risk varies. Psychotherapists working with eating disorders, psychologists trained in psychotherapy, and those in private addiction treatment settings are particularly vulnerable.With a structured coaching framework, a personalised support plan, and access to seasoned, mindfulness-based coaches, we offer a strong and reliable partnership for mental health professionals. Your privacy is treated with the utmost respect and discretion.
Founder
Christopher Dines is an author, a seasoned mindfulness practitioner, coach, and a former DJ. He has published eight books on mindfulness and addiction, including The Kindness Habit, which he co-authored with Dr. Barbara Mariposa, a distinguished medical doctor. Christopher’s books have featured forewords by renowned figures such as Rudolph E. Tanzi, PhD, of Harvard Medical School, and the late John Bradshaw—#1 New York Times bestselling author—at The Meadows, Arizona.Christopher founded and published Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) training and coaching in 2015, having already authored several books on mindfulness, goal manifestation, and deep meditation practices. He is particularly in sync with the therapeutic and psychological communities, having worked as part of clinical and therapeutic teams in private clinics, and through facilitating over 200 workshops.
Testimonials
“Christopher Dines gives you tools that will help you integrate your brain and ground yourself in your body through guided meditations, artistic expression and emotional training.”
— Rudolph E. Tazi, Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School."Christopher's excellent examples of ideas to help calm the mind and body, practice self-care and move through obstacles, is inspiring."
— Eileen Rockefeller, Author and Venture Capitalist“Christopher Dines' experiences and insight are shared in his book, 'Drug Addiction Recovery' for us all to learn from.”
— Peter Kyle MP, UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade“The Kindness Habit, co-authored by Christopher Dines and Dr Barbara Mariposa is the fruit of two very kind and courageous people. I have been lecturing on and writing about 'addictiveness' as the root of any addiction for many years. Now I have a book to recommend that illuminates the meaning and dynamics of 'addictiveness'.”
— John E. Bradshaw Snr, Three Times #1 New York Times Bestseller, and senior fellow at The Meadows, AZ“I have worked with Christopher Dines for many years. He was worked for Harbor London as a mindfulness practitioner. He brings peer leadership in this field supported by his many years in supporting people to manage their own self-care through the development of strategies centred in emotional development and regulation. Christopher is a consummate professional, team player and has always received excellent feedback. I highly recommend him.”
— Paul Flynn, CEO, Harbor London Clinic in Belgravia, SW1.
© Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP). All rights reserved 2026. UK & EU.
[email protected]
Est. 2015
Specialised Coaching
Coaching to cultivate clarity,
resilience, and tranquillity
One-on-One Coaching
In this 8-week Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) coaching package, Christopher Dines will both coach and guide you in preventing burnout and reconnecting with clarity, energy, and enthusiasm in your work.This specialised, strategic package includes eight one-on-one sessions over eight weeks, designed to help you build emotional resilience. You’ll receive personalised, holistic coaching to support lasting change and manifesting your goals.As with group coaching, this package draws on fresh insights and refined techniques from the forthcoming second edition of Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP).If you’d like to move forward, contact us today at [email protected]. We can then arrange a complimentary 20-minute introductory call.
Group Coaching
Specialised, tailored group coaching can be especially effective—particularly when everyone is in sync. In this 8-week Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) group coaching package, Christopher Dines will coach and guide your team in preventing burnout and reconnecting with clarity, energy, and enthusiasm in your work.This specialised, strategic package is designed to meet the immediate needs of the group. It includes eight one-on-one coaching sessions over eight weeks, each focused on building emotional resilience and clarity. A certificate will be provided upon completion.As with one-on-one coaching, this package draws on fresh insights and refined techniques from the forthcoming second edition of Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) scheduled for publication in February 2026.If you’d like to move forward, email [email protected]. We can then arrange a 20-minute introductory call.
© Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP). All rights reserved 2026. UK & EU.
[email protected]
Est. 2015
Community
Restoring and sustaining energy
and calm begins in a community
MBP Circle for Therapists & PsychologistsLaunching on Monday 6th April 2026
Therapeutic and psychological work is deeply meaningful and fulfilling, but it can also be emotionally demanding, isolating, and quietly depleting over time. Having a supportive community in place can make all the difference.MBP Circle is a monthly subscription community designed specifically for therapists and psychologists who are risk of burnout and emotional fatigue. This isn’t about pushing through or over-adapting to unsustainable pressure. It’s about recognising your own pace, restoring energy, cultivating calm, and creating an emotionally supportive foundation for long-term wellbeing.
So, what’s included?
Members will receive:• Christopher Dines will facilitate a monthly live Zoom gathering, coaching, and guided breathworks (75 mins)• A reflective space for nervous system regulation and burnout prevention• Weekly mindfulness-based reminders• Peer connection and community support• A private space where likeminded therapists, counsellors, and psychologists can exhale• Occasional guest conversations• Priority access to retreats and coaching (community members hear first)
This is for you if ...
• You feel emotionally stretched or overextended• Exhaustion is becoming all too familiar• You want to stay well and energised while continuing to serve others• You value mindfulness, emotional boundaries, and sustainable practice• You want to be in an environment that supports and encourages your personal and professional goals
Membership
£22 per month (founding rate, subject to availability). Join today to secure your place. No payment will be taken until Monday 30th March 2026. You may cancel anytime before 30th March and you won't be charged.The community officially begins on Monday 6th April 2026. For more information, email: [email protected]. Thank you.
© Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP). All rights reserved 2026. UK & EU.
[email protected]
Est. 2015
Insights
Essentially, mindfulness means having
a deeper awareness of what is
Clarity Precedes Progress
Published in January 2026
Happy New Year! I hope you had some time to rest and rejuvenate over the winter break. January often becomes a moment for setting new intentions, refining aspects of one’s lifestyle, or in some cases, making more significant changes.In the coming months, I’ll continue to share the personal experiences of therapists and psychologists around burnout prevention and self-care. We had some excellent contributors last year, and I’m keen to keep this dialogue alive.One pattern I’ve observed among clinicians working in mental health, since the first publication of Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) in 2015, and even earlier during my time working in clinics and organisations, is the tendency to over-adapt to environments that are unsustainable. While adaptability can be a strength, there are moments when it’s essential to pause and honestly assess whether continued compromise is worth the cost.Personally, I experienced burnout twice within four years while working in the electronic music industry until the mid-2000s. Later, during and after the Covid-19 period—once the heightened adrenaline of lockdowns had passed—I had to take self-care very seriously. Over-adapting, I’ve learned, can quietly erode well-being over time.On this theme, a remarkable human being and accomplished psychologist and psychotherapist based in Switzerland, Meriel Stanton, recently shared her reflections in the second foreword to the upcoming second edition of Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP), scheduled for publication later this year (more on that soon). Many skilled psychologists and therapists echo this experience—recognising, often in hindsight, that excessive compromise in both professional and personal life came at a significant cost, often requiring months to recover from burnout.At a recent New Year family gathering, I was asked what my intention for the year might be. My answer was simple: clarity. What comes to mind when you reflect on your intention for 2026?Have a good day, and a tranquil month ahead.All the best,
Christopher Dines
Therapist Mark Hambrook Retires
— MBP Salutes You
Published in October 2025
Mark Hambrook, a seasoned therapist and former head of a dual diagnosis service operating in East Anglia, England, has retired. It’s difficult to measure the positive impact he’s had on the hundreds of people he’s helped — through one-to-one work, workshops, and his dual-diagnosis initiatives. Over the years, Mark consulted with organisations including Norcas, Probation Services, CRI, Open Road, Stonham, and St Giles, always bringing a deep understanding of addiction and recovery.I first met Mark while running a mindfulness meditation support group in Suffolk, England, back in 2010. I was immediately struck by his empathy, humility, and genuine commitment to mindfulness-based approaches. We soon developed a mutual respect and went on to co-facilitate mindfulness workshops in both Suffolk and Covent Garden, London, for mental health professionals and the general public alike.Kindness, compassion, and empathy were constants in Mark’s private practice and community work. In hindsight, I can smile at moments when my younger self might have been a little brash — but Mark always met that energy with a glint of good humour in his eye.When I founded Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) in 2015, he was again generous with his time, offering thoughtful feedback drawn from both his clinical expertise and his personal mindfulness practice.Wishing Mark a joyful and serene retirement in the Philippines, and sincere gratitude for his years of service and care.All the best,
Christopher DinesP.S. I've included a video of Mark and me at ECR, Suffolk, in 2013. It was an excellent workshop.
Sustaining Calm and Enjoying Serenity
Published in September 2025
Therapists and psychologists committed to preventing burnout often engage in regular supervision, sometimes monthly or more, and connect with peers for mutual support. These practices not only benefit the professionals themselves but also improve outcomes for their clients. Sustaining boundaries, such as avoiding weekend work and seeking natural ways to feel calm and serene, is a sign of strength.Unfortunately, burnout remains a persistent issue among otherwise brilliant and accomplished therapists and psychologists. Certain professionals are at higher risk: for example, eating disorder psychotherapists and clinicians working full-time with substance misusers often face intense, emotionally taxing caseloads. Younger or newer trauma therapists, eager to prove themselves, may also take on gruelling workloads that jeopardise their own health, sometimes leading to early career exit.The good news is that burnout is preventable. It requires a structured support system, including supervision, specialised coaching, and peer group support. Prevention also demands deliberate action and clarity to identify pressure points in both professional and personal life. Mindfulness is particularly effective: it promotes clarity, self-awareness, neural connectivity, and helps reset the nervous system. As reported in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, a randomised clinical trial demonstrated that “practice of mindfulness meditation results in a decreased response to stress, and mindfulness-based interventions have been effective at reducing workplace stress and burnout.”A practical tool for cultivating a mindful, deliberate lifestyle is to regularly check in with yourself throughout the day. Ground yourself in the present by taking a long, deep breath, ensuring that your exhale is longer than your inhale. For added benefit, place both feet firmly on the ground while breathing. These simple practices help reset the nervous system and create moments of calm and serenity. Professionals who integrate mindfulness into their personal routines tend to experience more frequent calm, as mindfulness positively influences brain function. The more attention given to the breath, the stronger the prefrontal cortex becomes, supporting higher-order mental functions.A 2024 case study titled Neurobiological Changes Induced by Mindfulness and Meditation: A Systematic Review, published by the National Library of Medicine, highlights the neurobiological benefits of mindfulness: “Their study emphasized the interplay between gene expression pathways activated in stress responses, with an observed increase in neural activity in regions associated with emotional regulation. Bakshi and Srivastava (2024) explained the neurobiological understanding of yoga and mindfulness, and their effects on neuronal function, stress, and well-being. Their review showed that the impact of mindfulness and yoga on the brain areas responsible for regulating stress, emotional control, and cognitive processes is positive. Specifically, function is enhanced in areas such as the prefrontal cortex and amygdala, which substantiate emotional resilience and improve cognitive control.”By integrating mindfulness into your daily routine, sustaining calm and enjoying serenity is possible.All the best,
Christopher Dines
MBP 10-Year Anniversary (First Edition)
— Published in July 2015
Published in July 2025
It’s the 10-year anniversary of Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP), which was published in July 2015. At the time of writing the manuscript, many health professionals were warning that exhaustion, burnout, and mental illness would become endemic in many Western countries by 2020, including medical doctor and author Dr. Barbara Mariposa, who wrote the foreword to Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP). However, none of us could have foreseen Covid-19 and its grave impact in the years that followed. During the pandemic, both in the UK and globally, people were under incredible stress, and exhaustion became widespread, continuing into the post-Covid years.As a mindfulness coach and practitioner, I witnessed firsthand how both therapists and psychologists were deeply affected during the Covid-19 era and beyond, with a noticeable increase in reports of burnout. I, myself, struggled to navigate the post-Covid landscape, especially after the adrenalised period had passed.That’s why I’m delighted to announce that to mark the 10-year anniversary of Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP), I’m currently writing the second edition, specifically for therapists and psychologists who are at risk of burnout and emotional exhaustion, helping them cultivate resilience and experience greater clarity. This updated edition will feature a new foreword by Meriel Stanton, an accomplished psychologist and psychotherapist, as well as a new introduction by Dr Bernice Sant, an experienced peak performance psychologist. The foreword to the first edition, written by medical doctor and wellness pioneer, Dr Barbara Mariposa, will also be included in the second edition.I’d like to thank everyone who has supported my work, research, and services over the years.All the best,
Christopher Dines
Burnout Among Psychologists & Therapists
Published in June 2025
Being a therapist and/or psychologist can be life-changing for your clients. Whether you’re helping someone work through trauma, supporting a person with an addictive behaviour, or guiding a couple as they repair their marriage, the impact of your work is immense. There’s a deep sense of fulfilment when a client experiences a breakthrough, knowing you’ve played a role in their healing process. And as your experience grows, so does demand for your services (some clients will pay whatever you ask just to keep working with you).Balancing empathy with professional boundaries is a skill, one that’s far from easy, but the fact that you can do it leaves a lasting impression. Most clients respect and appreciate the boundaries set in therapy, even if they come in with high emotional demands.The challenge comes when burnout starts creeping in. While supervision with an experienced colleague serves an essential role, offering guidance and providing distance from the emotional weight of client work, many therapists will still experience exhaustion and burnout at some point in their careers. Some areas of psychology and therapy are particularly intense; for example, a therapist working in a private drug and alcohol rehabilitation clinic might burn out within two to three years because of the relentless nature of the environment. Even therapists in private practice, working from beautiful, spacious settings, aren’t immune to burnout.By the time a therapist and/or psychologist reaches the point of compassion fatigue and exhaustion—where the passion for the work starts to fade despite having built a dream career—it’s often a sign that burnout has set in. And without meaningful lifestyle changes, recovery can take up to a year (sometimes 16-18 months).So how do you prevent burnout? And how do you sustain a sense of enjoyment in your work? It may sound obvious, but prioritising self-care is essential. Regular, intentional rest—downtime with minimal activity—can make all the difference. This could mean reducing your client load, scheduling daily naps, or carving out non-negotiable time off. Travel, holidays, trips, and even short breaks from therapeutic conversations can help reset the mind and body.Incorporating mindfulness practices, whether meditation, breathwork like box breathing, or yoga techniques can reduce stress and build resilience. The key is self-awareness: tuning into your thoughts and emotions, listening to what your body is telling you, and, most importantly, respecting those signals.The good news is that burnout isn’t inevitable. And for those already recovering from burnout, sometimes a few small, deliberate adjustments—pulling a different lever here and there—can be enough to cultivate a more sustainable, tranquil life as a therapist or psychologists. Therapy and psychology are needed now more than ever. It’s a profound service with lasting effects.All the best,
Christopher Dines
Therapy and Psychology are Life-Changing
Published in April 2025
The work of therapists and psychologists is life-changing—especially in an increasingly uncertain and tumultuous world. As mental illness, trauma, and emotional distress continue to rise, the need for skilled therapists and psychologists has never been more vital. The impact of good therapy and psychology is truly life-changing.I’ve personally experienced the profound benefits of therapy and psychology—whether through talking therapy, EMDR, or deep feeling (inner child) work. Each approach has offered healing, relief, and much-needed closure. The strength and dedication it takes for an exceptional therapist or psychologist to hold space, listen deeply, mirror, guide, and respond with care are truly remarkable.I’ve spoken with dozens of people whose relationships and overall well-being have improved because of therapy or psychology. That’s why I believe it’s essential to create more spaces where therapists and psychologists can receive the same level of support they provide to others.A simple yet powerful practice for therapists and psychologists is to observe the natural flow of the breath throughout the day. Every hour, take a moment to ask yourself, “What’s my breathing like?” Then gently focus on its rhythm for a minute or so. This small act of mindfulness can anchor you in the present and create a sense of calm amidst the challenges of the day.All the best,
Christopher Dines
Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (First Edition) featured in the HuffPost UK back in 2016
Published in March 2025
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) deteriorating mental health will represent one of the most serious health challenges to Western society of the twenty-first century. The WHO report states, "In the World Health Report 2001 that we devote to mental health, we bring updated figures which show that four of the ten leading causes of disability worldwide are neuropsychiatric disorders, accounting for 30.8% of total disability and 12.3% of the total burden of disease. This latter figure is expected to rise to 15% by the year 2020."Similarly, Dr Barbara Mariposa refers to this report in her blog, "Stress, anxiety and depression are predicted to be the second biggest causes of ill health in Western countries by 2020."Overwhelming stress, anxiety and the effects of depression are taking their toll on people from all walks of life. All of us can "burn out" regardless of social or economic status but there is no doubt that financial concerns can place enormous additional strain on those already struggling to juggle the day-to-day pressures of everyday modern life.High achievers are not immune from professional burnout either. The founder of The Huffington Post, Arianna Huffington changed her lifestyle after a rude awakening. She suffered from burnout and exhaustion, "When I collapsed in April 2007, I was by our society's definition very successful, but by any sane definition of success, I was not ... As long as our culture defines success as money and power, we're stuck on a treadmill of stress, sleep deprivation, and burnout."Stress, anxiety and mild depression (also substance misuse) have in the past been very problematic for me. As a matter of fact, in summer 2004 I burnt out while DJing, which left me no choice but to seek help and change my lifestyle completely. It was a huge wake up call -- I had hit a dark rock bottom. While I have improved dramatically in the last twelve years, I am certainly not immune to stress and anxiety and I can still succumb to feelings of despondency from time to time. Nonetheless, I have found several invaluable tools which help me to take care of myself and reduce the risk of burnout re-occurring. Practising mindfulness in all areas of my life has been the most wonderful investment I have ever made into my mental, physical, spiritual and emotional well-being.Below are eight gentle suggestions which I put together in an eight-week course format, inspired by my book, Mindfulness Burnout Prevention: An 8-Week Course for Professionals. They are well worth exploring:• Present-Moment Awareness, Equanimity and Calmness-- Focusing on the present moment brings clarity with regard to our thought-life, emotional state, behaviour and immediate environment. Such clarity will reveal when we are neglecting our wellbeing. The more we practise present-moment awareness, the easier it is to see how futile it is to be attached to an outcome. We can begin to flow and demonstrate equanimity during life's vicissitudes. There are many different ways to practise present-moment awareness, however the simplest way is to get into the habit of watching the breath. Throughout the day pause on a regular basis and observe the breath flowing through your body. This is a good start.• Communicating Mindfully-- When I burnt out I was in a mild state of self-delusion. I thought that "I was fine" even though my body was giving me clear signals that I was exhausted. I pretended to be "super human", and so, I was being dishonest with myself and my fellows. Had I been able to communicate mindfully how I was truly feeling, I would have been able to slow down before it was too late. It's worth learning how to be honest with yourself and others by communicating with clarity. Ask yourself, "How am I really feeling?" "Am I mentally and/or emotionally overwhelmed?" "How often do I feel resentful towards my current circumstances?" "Am I dissatisfied or frustrated in my job/career?" "When was the last time I ate healthily or rested my body?" "How often do I take gentleness breaks?" "Am I communicating mindfully with my colleagues and family?"• Focus, Alertness and Concentration-- A lack of focus, alertness and concentration show that we are not anchoring ourselves in the present moment. Naturally, this will increase the likelihood of making mistakes and being less effective. Being able to focus on the task at hand releases stress and can be very fulfilling, even if it is something relatively mundane or "unimportant". Similarly being alert and aware of our mental commentary helps us to detach from mental noise and destructive thoughts. Note: being alert is very different from being "hyper-vigilant". The latter is emotionally draining and usually a symptom of PTSD or unresolved childhood trauma. Being alert is a calming emotional state and goes hand-in-hand with a dedicated daily mindfulness practice.• Mindfulness and Emotional Intelligence-- Mindfulness is a wonderful way to practise "being" instead of compulsively "doing". Mindfulness is consciously being aware of our thoughts, feelings, emotions and sensations and being aware of the external world with clarity. Practising mindfulness on a daily basis will boost mental and emotional wellbeing and lessen the impact of stress, anxiety and depression. It can also enhance our spiritual wellbeing. We can be mindful of our lifestyle and the company we keep. Rather than being on auto-pilot, we can pause and respond to events rather than reacting and being thrown off course by the slightest problem.Similarly, emotional intelligence helps us to monitor our emotions. We can feel our feelings (pain, sadness, fear, sorrow or joy), without being overwhelmed by them. We can learn to recognise that while it's important to validate our feelings, we are not our emotions (we have feelings but we are not our feelings).• Emotional Resilience-- Life is difficult. Building a successful career in a global economy is a tall order. Bringing up a family also brings many challenges. However, when we develop emotional resilience we can persist and progress in our affairs. Rather than trying to force our way through life (which is counterproductive and leads to grave resentment) it is much healthier to focus on our efforts instead of potential outcomes. The fruit is in our efforts. It's the process that makes life fulfilling, not just a result. Remember that there are over seven billion people who also have personal desires, thus no matter how hard you try to push, resistance will be close by. The next time you find yourself trying to force your way through life, breathe and emotionally let go.• Body Scan Awareness and Meditation Practices for StressBeing aware of the condition of our body is essential. If we can listen to the human body and be aware of its needs, we will reduce stress. We know that memories are stored inside the muscles of the human body (traumatic or joyful memories). The human body remembers everything. Similarly, the human body informs us through feelings, aches and sensations when it needs to be nurtured or requires time to rest. By scanning the body with various meditation techniques we can boost our emotional wellbeing and reduce stress. Ask yourself "How is my body feeling in this very moment?" "How often do I pay attention to my body?" "Do I give my body regular exercise?" "How often do I allow myself downtime?"• Self-CompassionLearning to direct compassion inwards is probably the kindest thing that we can do for ourselves. It's so easy to direct blame towards ourselves. When we are kind and compassionate towards ourselves, self-care becomes natural. If we nurture and take care of our mental, emotional, spiritual and physical wellbeing, we are far less likely to burn out. It was Jack Kornfield who said, "If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete." Therefore, ask yourself on a regular basis, "Am I directing compassion inwards?" "Do I put enough time aside to relax and unwind?" "Am I allowing myself to believe cruel things about myself?" "What can I do right now to be more compassionate and loving towards myself?"• Cultivating Gratitude and Appreciation in the WorkplaceRegularly reminding ourselves about things we cherish and appreciate will shield us from adopting a negative frame of mind. While we cannot be appreciative all of the time, we can pause once a day and reflect on the things we can be grateful for rather than focussing on what is "missing". Writing in a gratitude journal can be very helpful or talking to your spouse/partner or a friend about your thankfulness will amplify your emotional health.To read the full article visit HuffPost UK
© Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP). All rights reserved 2026. UK & EU.
[email protected]
Est. 2015
MBP Newsletter Archive
Remember to notice that you're breathing.
MBP newsletter featuring Madrid-based
psychotherapist, Nacho Gath
Published in February 2026
Mindfulness can certainly involve sitting still and noticing the breath, but to limit presence to this alone would be to miss its wider potential. Wherever we are, regardless of location, the opportunity to be grounded in presence is always available—whether in a park, a car, or on a mountain. The key is to notice what is happening around us, while also gently tuning into our thoughts, feelings, and emotional state.On the theme of presence, I recently had a conversation with Madrid-based licensed psychotherapist Nacho Gath, who is highly regarded among the expat community in Spain. We explored the importance of not over-adapting to unsustainable circumstances and environments, practical ways of anchoring ourselves in the present moment (such as working with the breath), and the emotional complexities of relocating abroad.Nacho Gath said: “Over time, I’ve come to see self-care not as something separate from clinical work, but as part of clinical responsibility itself. When supporting adults and families navigating migration, loss, and identity shifts, the emotional material is often subtle but cumulative. If we don’t pause to notice how this work is landing in our own bodies and minds, depletion can creep in quietly—often before we realise it.”He continued: “One of the biggest challenges in contemporary practice, particularly in online work, is learning how to step out of ‘therapist mode.’ Mindfulness doesn’t have to mean long meditations; it can be as simple as a brief grounding practice between sessions: a minute of slow breathing, feeling the feet on the floor, or intentionally closing the day with a short body scan.”“I often practise simple, repeatable rituals that support regulation: stepping outside after a block of sessions, moving the body without tracking performance, or eating without screens. These moments of presence are not indulgent, they are how attention and empathy stay clean. Mindfulness, in this sense, is less about calm and more about clarity.”Nacho ended by saying: “When we care for ourselves in this way, we protect the quality of our work. Offering steady, attuned support to people living through migration-related grief requires internal space. Creating that space—through awareness, rest, and intention—is not self-focus. It’s what allows us to keep showing up with integrity, over time.”Have a tranquil day and a good week ahead.All the best,Christopher DinesSeasoned Mindfulness Practitioner | Coach | Published AuthorTo read the newsletter in its original form, please visit here.
MBP newsletter - Happy New Year 2026
Published in January 2026
Happy New Year! I hope you had some time to rest and rejuvenate over the winter break. January often becomes a moment for setting new intentions, refining aspects of one’s lifestyle, or in some cases, making more significant changes.In the coming months, I’ll continue to share the personal experiences of therapists and psychologists around burnout prevention and self-care. We had some excellent contributors last year, and I’m keen to keep this dialogue alive.One pattern I’ve observed among clinicians working in mental health, since the first publication of Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) in 2015, and even earlier during my time working in clinics and organisations, is the tendency to over-adapt to environments that are unsustainable. While adaptability can be a strength, there are moments when it’s essential to pause and honestly assess whether continued compromise is worth the cost.Personally, I experienced burnout twice within four years while working in the electronic music industry until the mid-2000s. Later, during and after the Covid-19 period—once the heightened adrenaline of lockdowns had passed—I had to take self-care very seriously. Over-adapting, I’ve learned, can quietly erode well-being over time.On this theme, a remarkable human being and accomplished psychologist and psychotherapist based in Switzerland, Meriel Stanton, recently shared her reflections in the second foreword to the upcoming second edition of Mindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP), scheduled for publication later this year (more on that soon). Many skilled psychologists and therapists echo this experience—recognising, often in hindsight, that excessive compromise in both professional and personal life came at a significant cost, often requiring months to recover from burnout.At a recent New Year family gathering, I was asked what my intention for the year might be. My answer was simple: clarity. What comes to mind when you reflect on your intention for 2026?Have a good day, and a tranquil week ahead.Warm regards,
Christopher DinesSeasoned Mindfulness Practitioner | Coach | Published AuthorTo read the newsletter in its original form, please visit here.
MBP newsletter featuring clinical psychologist
and trauma specialist, Dr Julia A. Andre
Published in December 2025
It’s the beginning of December—a time when some are winding down their practice for a well-deserved winter break, while others are feeling energised as summer arrives in their part of the world. As we move steadily toward the New Year, with fresh expectations and plans often taking shape, the topic of burnout prevention feels especially timely.I recently spoke with Dr Julia A. Andre, an experienced clinical psychologist based in Hong Kong, a trauma specialist, and co-founder of the first global vetted Trauma Directory—about how she personally navigates burnout prevention and integrates self-care into her life. We also explored some of her work on understanding omission trauma among psychologists, therapists, and counsellors, and how this can contribute to longer-term health challenges.Dr Andre shared the following: “In trauma work, we often focus on what happened: the moments of violation, loss, or danger that left visible scars. Yet, for many clients (and therapists), it is what did not happen that quietly shapes the deepest layers of distress. This is the essence of omission trauma, the pain of absence, neglect, or emotional unavailability.”“Omission trauma is subtle. There are no dramatic events to point to, no crisis to name. Instead, there is an ache: the unmet gaze, the unspoken comfort, the support that never came.”“For therapists, especially those who have built their identity around care and competence, omission trauma often manifests as chronic self-neglect: overgiving, overfunctioning, and confusing exhaustion for purpose.”She continued: “In mindfulness-based reflection, omission trauma invites us to notice the spaces between things, the pauses where attunement should have been. It asks us to feel into our own history of “not enough” and how that plays out in our work.”“The therapist who never learned that rest is safe may find it impossible to stop holding others. The clinician who grew up without emotional validation may over-attune to every client’s distress, forgetting their own boundaries in the process.”“When unaddressed, omission trauma becomes fertile ground for burnout, not because of the clients we see but because of the parts of us that keep trying to earn the care we never received.”“Healing begins when we pause, not to fix, but to feel. Through mindful awareness, compassion practices, and relational repair, both in supervision and therapy, we start to internalise what was missing: safety, rest, and the permission to matter.”“For trauma therapists, the work is twofold: to hold space for the wounds of absence in our clients, and to tend gently to our own. Mindfulness offers a doorway back to presence, reminding us that healing is not only about what we process, but also about what we allow ourselves to receive.”Lastly, Dr Andre ended by saying: “On a personal note, protecting myself from burnout has become an essential part of my clinical discipline. I regularly check in with the younger parts of me that still try to earn worth through overworking. I build spacious pauses between sessions, block out non-clinical days and practise saying no before my body says it for me. I spend intentional time in nature to remind my system that slowness is safe. These simple but consistent practices help me stay connected, grounded and able to show up with presence.”Wishing you a tranquil day, and a serene month ahead.Warm regards,
Christopher DinesMindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) Coach for Therapists and Psychologists | Published AuthorTo read the newsletter in its original form, please visit here.
MBP newsletter featuring Manchester-based
therapist, Khadra Yassein
Published in November 2025
Being fully present in the moment while attending to daily obligations and responsibilities is what it truly means to live fully. Greater clarity often emerges when attention rests in the present, as repetitive, unhelpful thoughts begin to lose their grip, allowing space for moments of genuine serenity.I recently had the pleasure of asking Manchester-based mental health counsellor and therapist Khadra Yassein how she practises mindfulness and protects herself from burnout. She generously shared the following:“I’ve found that tending to my own wellbeing is not just essential for preventing burnout, it is what allows me to show up fully and presently for my clients. One practice that has become central to my self-care is rooted in my Somali heritage: the burning of resins such as frankincense and myrrh, known as uunsi.”“What may look like simple incense is, in truth, a 7,000-year-old ritual for grounding and renewal. Growing up, I saw uunsi fill our home with comfort during gatherings and moments of stillness. Today, as I navigate the demands of therapeutic work, I turn to this ritual for myself. The smoky aroma and gentle curl of the incense invite me to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with presence—a much-needed pause between sessions. Often, I combine this with a few minutes of meditation, allowing the scent to anchor me as I return to stillness and clarity.”She continued: “Incorporating aromatherapy has further deepened this ritual. Essential oils like sandalwood, rose, and vetiver help balance my energy and restore calm. And I’ve learned that self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate—even something as simple as lighting a candle can become a ritual of presence, a small but powerful act of mindfulness.”Lastly, Khadra ended by saying: “For me, these grounding practices—burning uunsi, mindful breathing, meditation, and even the gentle glow of a candle are more than self-care; they are anchors. They remind me that wellness isn’t about doing more, it’s about creating space to return to ourselves, so we can meet both life and our clients with clarity and compassion.”Warm regards,Christopher DinesMindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) Coach for Therapists and Psychologists | Published AuthorTo read the newsletter in its original form, please visit here.
MBP newsletter featuring Dublin-based
psychotherapist and art therapist, Ciara McKeown
Published in October 2025
Forgetting to notice the present moment is easily done. Yet when we do manage it—even briefly—clarity tends to emerge. And with that clarity often come solutions and a renewed appreciation for life. When I asked Dublin-based psychotherapist and art therapist Ciara McKeown how she practises mindfulness and self-care, she kindly shared the following:“Sometimes, when I walk in my local park, and when no one is looking, I hold my arms up in the air and imagine that I am being helped out of my jumper of stress by the tall trees lining the path. Much like a tired child at bedtime raises their arms upwards, letting Mum do the rest. I trust in nature to transform that stressed energy into something beautiful. This creative process unburdens me of the weight of any client energy I may be carrying.”Ciara continued: “I also stop at particular trees, who are dear friends now, and place one hand on my heart and the other on the tree, and I allow the healing energy of the tree to revitalise me. On energetic days, I transmit my joyful energy into the tree. Well, fair is fair!”“Sometimes I don’t realise I’m burnt out until it’s too late—or maybe I chose to push on through as there were bills and kids’ activities and events to pay for. And then when I stop, I finally acknowledge that my body aches with fatigue. And I know all it is asking of me is to be noticed. Felt. Not escaped from.”“As an art therapist, I have learnt to tune into the sensations within and create the image of what I notice. Generally, these are abstract images—not pictures of an anatomically correct body—more a thick blob or scribble, a tangled looking mess. Yup. That about sums up my inner state of burnout. I look at the image and as words arise I write them around the edges of the page. Heavy. Exhausted. Empty. Blank. Dull. Flat. Lifeless... Afterwards, I’ll draw a golden or pink haze around the blob, as if bringing love and kindness to this heavy place I find myself in.”Ciara ended by reflecting on reconnecting with herself: “It awakens in my unconscious healing energy directed towards my loyal friend Self, who has been waiting patiently in the background for a little love.”Have a tranquil day.Warm regards,
Christopher DinesMindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) Coach for Therapists and Psychologists | Published AuthorTo read the newsletter in its original form, please visit here.
MBP newsletter featuring psychotherapist
and psychologist, Dr Chris Cleave
Published in September 2025
I recently got in touch with Dr Chris Cleeve, an experienced psychologist, psychotherapist, and renowned writer, to learn about how he personally practises self-care.Dr Cleave said to me: “For me as a therapist and a writer, self-care is about remembering to offer the same approach to myself that I offer to my visitors and my readers. For both of those groups, I try to be an honest and loving presence, and I trust that the details will work themselves out. So that’s what my self-care is based on, too: honesty and love, rather than any detailed prescription.”“Honesty and love show up in different ways in therapy and in writing. In therapy I think honesty means naming the difficult stuff I’m noticing, and love means doing so at the right speed and in the right way for the particular visitor. And when I’m writing, honesty means naming life’s difficult stuff, while love means doing so in a way that makes the reader laugh twice and think once.”He continued: “Self-care just means applying those principles to my own case. I try to be honest about my struggles with the work and the world. And I try to laugh at myself twice and think once. Really it is an amazing thing, to be alive – and none of us have time to get good at it before we die – so it’s important to laugh kindly at our own mistakes before we get down to the important business of understanding and learning from them.”“This is self-care for me, then: just trying to treat myself as I would a reader, or a visitor in therapy – with honesty and love. And when I say ‘myself’, I mean mind and body. Francis of Assisi called his body ‘frater asinus’ – brother donkey – and he considered his body a partner. Our partner is this four-billion-year-old, highly evolved creature that we happen to be co-existing with for a few short decades.”“My body has already experienced this business of living, many tens of thousands of times, while my mind is still on its first go around. So, I try to listen to my body’s wisdom and defer to its judgement. It’s good at reading a room, or knowing what is actually being said. It understands a person’s energy – including my own. So, self-care includes letting my body care for me.”Lastly, Dr Cleave said: “Sending gratitude to all the therapists, coaches and carers out there who are meeting this troubled world with love. If people would like to connect, I write a weekly light-hearted piece at chriscleave.substack.com and I’m on Instagram @chriscleave.”Have a tranquil day, and a relaxing weekend.Warm wishes,
Christopher DinesMindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) Coach for Therapists and Psychologists | Published AuthorTo read the newsletter in its original form, please visit here.
MBP newsletter featuring
psychotherapist, Andrea Taylor
Published in August 2025
I recently spoke with Andrea Taylor an accomplished trauma, addictions, and couples therapist based in Essex, England, about how she weaves mindfulness and rest into her self-care practice.Andrea said: “In the early days of my career, as a therapist, manager and director, I often found myself caught in a cycle of overcommitment. I prided myself on being the “good girl,” constantly striving to prove my worth by taking on more responsibilities than I could handle. This drive, deeply rooted in my past experiences, led me to work long hours, tackle endless paperwork, and always be on call. I would tell my team to prioritise their well-being, but I struggled to practice this myself. Guilt would wash over me whenever I took time for myself, and the pressure to keep up left me feeling exhausted and overwhelmed.”She continued: “I knew that I needed to make a change. Leaving my job to start a private practice was a daunting decision, and I was terrified about paying the bills. However, my practice began to flourish. As a couples, addiction, and trauma therapist, I found a new sense of purpose and fulfilment. I also embraced exciting opportunities, such as becoming a UK outreach facilitator for a treatment centre and co-facilitating the Voyage Trauma training program. This training not only enhanced my skills but also helped me understand the roots of my drive for success and the importance of nurturing my own well-being.”“Today, I prioritise self-care as a vital part of my life. I’ve created a practice that allows me to work on my terms, fitting in yoga, meditation, mindful practice and gym sessions that energise me. Sleep has become a non-negotiable priority; I’ve learned that without it, I can’t show up as my best self for my clients. Setting boundaries around my client load has been essential, and I regularly engage in supervision—both in groups and one-on-one—to ensure I stay grounded and supported.”Andrea continued: “Nutrition, exercise, and journaling are now staples in my daily routine. I also cherish the connections I make through networking and consultancy work, as they allow me to engage with others and share experiences. Weekends are sacred; I dedicate them to family and friends, savouring the joy of life outside of work. After relocating to Essex, I’ve found solace in nature, with trees and the sea just a stone's throw away. Regular walks have become a cherished ritual.”Lastly, she said: “I’ve come to understand that self-care isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. By prioritising my own well-being, I’ve become more effective in my professional role and cultivated a richer, more fulfilling personal life. I knew self-care was essential, but I found it difficult to manage expectations and although my trauma got me far in my career, I now have compassion for what drives me and can set limits and enjoy balance.”Have a tranquil day, and a relaxing weekend.Warm wishes,
Christopher DinesMindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) Coach for Therapists and Psychologists | Published Author
MBP newsletter featuring
clinical psychologist, Anne Huntress
Published in July 2025
On the theme of clarity, I spoke with Ann Huntress, a seasoned clinical psychologist in NSW, Australia, about mindfulness and self-care. Ann said to me: “I am now in my 18th year of private psychology practice, and clients have often asked me whether I practice the strategies that I teach them, for example, mindfulness. My answer was “I try to” until it finally occurred to me that I really wasn’t doing enough to “practice what I preach.” I am not immune to the stresses of life just because I have developed an in-depth understanding of human behaviour! My answer when asked this question now is “absolutely!”“The beauty of mindfulness practice is that one does not actually have to carve out time for it, so “I don’t have time” doesn’t cut it! So, you don’t have time to shower, do the dishes, eat, or drive your car?” It doesn’t matter what activity you are doing, you can simultaneously practice mindfulness. It doesn’t cost a cent, and you don’t need to search the cupboards for it. It’s right there where you are!”She continued: “My absolute go-to is the breath. Simply slowing your breathing is a wonderful way to reduce your nervous system arousal, slow your heart rate, and take in more oxygen. My second go-to is the pause. This entails noticing an activation in my body, then pausing and witnessing this without judgement, after which I am able to respond rather than react. Further to this I spend a lot of time in nature, and do a guided meditation each night before I go to sleep.”Lastly, she said: “I recently read this quote which I think is very accurate: “Worry pulls you into a future you can’t control. Regret drags you back to a past you can’t change. Your breath grounds you right in the now – where there’s so much to enjoy if you could just stop trying to control and change everything” (author unknown). I love Eckart Tolle's teachings including accepting the “isness” of the present moment. Pause, breathe, let go, and be present.”All the best,
Christopher DinesMindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) Coach for Therapists and Psychologists | Published Author
MBP newsletter featuring chartered
psychologist, Dr Aneesh Shravat
Published in June 2025
Dr Aneesh Shravat, an experienced psychologist based in Cambridge and London, UK, was happy to share his personal experience of integrating mindfulness into his routine to navigate anxiety. Dr Shravat said: “As a psychologist, self-care isn’t just something I recommend to others—it’s a vital part of how I stay grounded and present in both my personal and professional life. I always say to my clients that I won't ask you to do something that I don't practice. For me, nature, movement, and mindfulness form the foundations of my wellbeing.”“Spending time outdoors—particularly walking with my dogs—is a daily reminder to slow down and connect with the world around me. Exercise helps me regulate my energy and mood, while mindfulness meditation gives me the space to check in with myself more intentionally.”He continued: “Most mornings begin with a body scan meditation, which helps me meet the day with greater awareness and calm. Anxiety and worry often show up physically for me, so this grounding practice allows me to notice and soften those sensations before the day gets going.”“Throughout the day, I try to return to mindful awareness in small but meaningful ways. A moment of quiet on the train platform, a few deep breaths before opening my emails, or immersing myself in a paperback book during the commute all help to create gentle pauses in the rush.”“Like many of us, I can be drawn into doomscrolling on my phone, so I set the intention each day to stay off screens until I arrive at work. It’s not always perfect—but the intention matters.”Lastly, he said: “Ultimately, self-care for me is about noticing when I’m being self-critical and gently taking a step back. These moments of mindfulness—however brief—help me show up more fully, both for myself and for those I support.”All the best,
Christopher DinesMindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) Coach for Therapists and Psychologists | Published Author
MBP newsletter featuring psychotherapist
and author, Fran Roberts
Published in May 2025
I recently asked seasoned psychotherapist and author Fran Roberts, based in London’s King’s Cross, how she weaves self-care into her everyday life. Self-care is deeply personal, yet most would agree on the value of regular downtime, a pleasant stroll, connecting with loved ones, moving the body, being positively visible, nurturing the brain, and taking deep breaths. Ultimately, it depends on the stage of life we’re in and what’s actually manageable.Fran Roberts said to me: “Self-care is an essential part of my daily life, and I am lucky that I have the space and time to commit to it. Having spent the past 15 years working as a psychotherapist and self-care expert, I have a variety of tools I use. I usually start my day with a short meditation, and if there is time, a quick workout. I have a cold water dip twice a week, more if there is time, and I usually end the day doing a jigsaw, listening to music or a podcast. I find a jigsaw is a lovely way to unwind and find quiet focus.”She continued: “Journaling is an amazing tool to help release repetitive negative thinking, and it also allows me to process difficult experiences, often parking difficult thoughts and stopping rumination.”Fran said: “I end my day, before I turn my light out, listing 3 things I am grateful for that day. There are so many self-care tools out there. When things are going well, I keep a steady flow, but when things are tough, I try and increase my self-care to help rebuild my resilience and replenish my coping cup.”Warm regards,
Christopher DinesMindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) Coach for Therapists and Psychologists | Published Author
MBP newsletter featuring clinical psychologist, psychotherapist, and author, Sibel Ozer
Published in April 2025
Sibel Ozer, an experienced psychotherapist in Cincinnati, OH, and author of Stories of My Art, was happy to share her approach to feeling more serene and appreciative with you. This is what Sibel said: “I wake up remembering this prayer of gratitude that says I got two gifts today: my right eye and my left eye. I smile that my practice of mindfulness, after two decades, makes it so much easier than the early days. I continue my gratitude for my health and family, for the sunshine peeking through the blinds, for a day full of time between responsibilities to do as I please, to remember to cherish those precious moments of freedom and choice.”She continued: “That is the heart of mindfulness after all, giving us choice in all manner of things. Creating space between stimulus and response so that we exercise the only real control we have in the face of fate, which is how we respond to fate.”Lastly, Sibel shared: “I am reminded of the many poems of Mary Oliver on letting go of worry, on opening my eyes to the wonders of nature around me, on slowing down, and simply being, thanking the heavens for the many poems she left behind. Wishing you all happy memories.”Warm wishes,
Christopher DinesMindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) Coach for Therapists and Psychologists | Published Author
MBP newsletter featuring
psychotherapist, Beryll Camplin
Published in March 2025
When I asked Beryll Camplinhow she navigates exhaustion, both preventively and when it arises, she said: “I came to therapy and counselling later in life, when mindfulness was just beginning to become ‘a thing’. A more knowledgeable colleague on my training course once said: ‘It’s about chewing your apple or eating a handful of raisins really slowly.’ Well, I thought, munching a piece of toast takes me half an hour or more, so I must be doing this mindfulness stuff already.”“I thought I knew everything — but in truth, I had so much to learn. How to decompress, regulate wildly fluctuating emotions, tolerate overwhelm, and manage the pulsing anxiety that sneaks in during the early hours and refuses (still does) to leave. And that was before holding the bundle of worries, hurts and traumas from those who came to trust me. But this is my work — and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”Beryll continued: “We all have our own ways of nourishing a weary soul and calming the monkey mind. Based on childhood patterns of self-soothing, here are mine: I’m a routine person when I set my mind to it, so I begin with yoga. Breath is essential — always the breath. Gentle guided stretching (with gentle YouTube teachers) for 5–10 minutes each morning helps me step away from the previous night’s worries and the new day’s to-do list. Therapy in motion.”She ended by saying: “Music — anytime, anywhere. The radio, playlists. Being outside — walking alone, with or without AirPods. Reading fiction, or non-fiction. And best of all: a walk, a talk, and good coffee with a wise friend. That’s the double cream of self-care. Meditation is still a work in progress…”All the best,
Christopher DinesMindfulness Burnout Prevention (MBP) Coach for Therapists and Psychologists | Published Author
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