Compassion Focused Therapy

What is Compassion Focused Therapy Approach?

Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) is an approach designed to help people who struggle with self-criticism, shame, or feelings of inadequacy. It focuses on developing self-compassion as a way to improve mental well-being and emotional resilience. CFT teaches you how to soothe your inner critic, build a more supportive relationship with yourself, and approach life’s challenges with kindness and courage.

The three pillars of Compassion Focused Therapy are:

1. Self-Compassion: Learning to treat yourself with the same kindness, understanding, and support you’d offer a friend.

2. Compassion for Others: Developing empathy and care for others, improving connection and relationships.

3. Receiving Compassion: Opening yourself up to kindness and support from others without fear or self-doubt.

CFT helps create balance by fostering warmth and understanding in how you view yourself and the world around you.

Book a free 20 minute phone consultation with a CFT therapist now

How does Compassion Focused Therapy Work?

CFT helps clients to explore and transform self-critical thoughts and behaviours, which can lead to feelings of safety and self-acceptance.

By fostering a compassionate mindset, individuals can develop a kinder and more understanding relationship with themselves, leading to improved mental health and emotional well-being.

Through guided exercises and therapeutic interventions, individuals learn to harness the power of compassion to foster healing and personal growth.

Who can CFT help?

Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) is especially helpful for people who struggle with:

• Self-Criticism: Constantly feeling “not good enough” or battling an inner critic.

• Shame and Guilt: Feeling unworthy, flawed, or overly burdened by past mistakes.

• Low Self-Esteem: Struggling with self-doubt and negative self-perception.

• Perfectionism: Feeling trapped by unrealistic expectations and fear of failure.

• Anxiety and Depression: Experiencing overwhelming worry, sadness, or feelings of hopelessness.

• Trauma: Working through the emotional wounds of past experiences.

CFT is for anyone looking to build self-compassion, reduce shame, and foster a kinder, more balanced relationship with themselves and others. It’s particularly valuable for those seeking to replace self-judgment with self-acceptance and inner peace.

Book a free 20 minute phone consultation with an CFT therapist now

Find a Therapist

Supports Couples, Teens (12+), Adults

Supports Couples, Teens (9+), Adults, Families

Supports Adults and Teens (16+)

Supports Adults and Couples

Frequently asked questions

What is compassion-focused therapy, and how does it work?

Compassion-focused therapy helps build a more compassionate and understanding relationship with yourself. Self-criticism or shame is something that many struggle with, and this therapy teaches you to respond with self-compassion instead. You get to learn simple tools that allow you to relax your mind, think less, and feel more at ease with yourself.

What are the benefits of compassion-focused therapy?

The benefits of compassion-focused therapy are reduced stress, improved self-esteem, and emotional balance. It can make you less cruel to yourself and more tolerant of your experiences. This can eventually improve your relationships and help you handle tough situations more easily, without feeling overwhelmed.

How do I find a compassion-focused therapist near me?

If you are seeking a compassion-focused therapist in your area, start by searching for licensed therapists who offer this approach. You should pick the person with whom you feel comfortable, because a safe, supportive environment will help you open up and grow.

Is compassion-focused therapy available online?

Yes, many therapists offer compassion-focused therapy online. Online sessions may be helpful if you are busy or prefer to be in your own space. Even in an online environment, a therapist can help you through the same process and assist in your growth.

“Unlike self-criticism, which asks if you’re good enough, self-compassion asks what’s good for you? Self-compassion taps into your inner desire to be healthy and happy. If you care about yourself, you’ll do what you need to do to in order to learn and grow. You’ll want to change unhelpful patterns of behaviour, even if that means giving up certain things you like for a while.”

Kristin Neff