A Lifetime of Mindfulness with Carl Hampton

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Carl Hampton is a seasoned psychotherapist, community leader, and supervisor at the Family Institute at Northwestern University. With over four decades of experience spanning criminal justice, rehabilitation, mental health, and private practice, Carl brings a deep well of wisdom, humility, and presence to his work. He is known for his lifelong commitment to mindfulness, relational attunement, and fostering authentic human connection, both in therapy rooms and supervision spaces.

In this episode, Carl shares stories from his early days working in prisons and victim advocacy to his current work as a therapist and supervisor. He talks about the foundational role of mindfulness in his life and clinical practice—starting with a strawberry-scented mantra at age 14—and how humility, curiosity, and trust are essential tools in therapeutic relationships. Together, we explore how mindfulness isn’t just a technique, but a way of being present with others, with ourselves, and with the unpredictable flow of life and learning.

For more about Carl, visit About Carl — Phoenix Clinic.

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Co-Hosted by Corina Teofilo Mattson and Mariana Reyes Daza. Show art by Jae Avilez and Corina. Music by Brandon Acosta.