Duane Osterlind, LMFT
Duane Osterlind, LMFT
356: Sacrificial Helpers Syndrome with Katie Vernoy
356: Sacrificial Helpers Syndrome with Katie Vernoy
356: Sacrificial Helpers Syndrome with Katie Vernoy
Monday 20th October 2025
Explore Sacrificial Helpers Syndrome with Katie Vernoy, offering insights into self-care for those in helping professions.
29 minutes
Informative
Compassionate
Supportive
Encouraging
Inspiring
About this podcast
Author:
Duane Osterlind, LMFT
Overview:
Categories:
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Sobriety Toolkit
Recovery from Trauma
Family Recovery from Addiction
Navigating Intimate Relationships
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Episodes:
492 (View all)
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Episode Overview
- Sacrificial Helpers Syndrome involves giving more than one can afford.
- Helpers often neglect their own needs due to past traumas.
- Setting boundaries is crucial for preventing burnout.
- Self-awareness helps identify when you're giving too much.
- Balancing passion for helping with personal well-being is essential.
You are so valuable, and you have to treat yourself with the care and respect and love that you do for all the people you help.
How do people find strength in their journey to sobriety? In this engaging episode of The Addicted Mind Podcast, host Duane Osterlind sits down with Katie Vernoy, a licensed family therapist and consultant, to discuss the intriguing concept of 'Sacrificial Helpers Syndrome.' This syndrome often affects those in helping professions, who find themselves giving more than they have to offer, often at the expense of their own well-being.
Katie shares her personal experiences and provides valuable insights into how this phenomenon can lead to burnout and compassion fatigue. Katie explains how many helpers, driven by past traumas or a deep desire to make a difference, may neglect their own needs while trying to save others. She shares practical advice on setting boundaries and prioritising self-care, highlighting the importance of recognising when one is giving too much.
Through humour and honesty, Katie encourages helpers to find balance in their professional and personal lives, ensuring they can continue their important work without burning out. The conversation also touches on the role of imposter syndrome in the lives of helpers, as they struggle with feelings of inadequacy despite their capabilities. Duane and Katie explore how helpers can maintain their passion for aiding others while taking care of themselves.
If you've ever felt overwhelmed by your desire to help others, this episode offers a compassionate and supportive guide to finding equilibrium in your life. So, what steps will you take to ensure you're helping others without losing yourself?