Can I stop being empathetic

[Banana2621]

I feel stupid just writing this but I have for most of my 42 years being very empathetic and overly caring. It causes problems for me. I am rubbish at saying no because I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings. I take an awful lot too literally and personally. I overthink.
It can damage friendships, relationships. I don't want to pass it to my kids because it has had such a detrimental effect for me.
I have done counselling. I am aware this is something I need to sort myself. I just wonder if anyone can give any tips please.
I need to work out how to develop a thicker skin, work out boundaries and not care so blooming much. Advice gratefully received.
:(

Oh I have the opposite problem. Psychologist told me that I don't even know what empathy is. Not sure if that's totally right but I think I have it easier this way.

I would go back to counselling, and go in with a long term goal. No you can't stop being empathetic, it's a great thing as it helps us to strive for connection and understanding, but you can set boundaries and learn to look after yourself. You can do this, I would recommend the support of someone else as sometimes we are (all) very blind to our own traits.