Empathy Circles

An Empathy Circle is a structured dialogue based on mutual active listening.

Empathy circle handout:

Basic Empathy Circle:

1. The first person selects who they will speak to;
2. they speak about whatever
comes up for them for a set time (typically 3-5 min);
3. the listener reflects back what
they are hearing until the speaker
feels heard and understood to their satisfaction.
4. Then it is the listener’s turn to select who they will speak to and for that new listener to reflect back what they are hearing.
5. Everyone helps hold the circle process by monitoring & sticking to the steps.

Center for building a culture of empathy

“Listening is an art that requires attention over talent, spirit over ego, others over self.” Dean Jackson