Empathy is an essential skill for professional students and practitioners in the helping professions. Advances in brain science have expanded our knowledge of the mechanics of empathy. To function effectively in diverse and emotionally complex environments, practitioners need to have a good understanding of the cognitive and affective aspects of empathy in order to self regulate empathic overload and engage proactively to prevent burnout. Journaling is one meditative practice that allows for reflection and self monitoring through critical emotional praxis.