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Photo of Domenique Mirra | Relationship Anxiety | Breakups | Trauma | Neurodiversity, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ancaster, ON
Domenique Mirra | Relationship Anxiety | Breakups | Trauma | Neurodiversity
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RPQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8T  (Online Only)
So...you're attracted to emotionally unavailable partners. You overgive, overcompromise, and people-please. You feel anxious when your partner isn’t with you, checking your phone every few minutes to see if they've texted. You're on an emotional roller coaster, feeling terrified of abandonment, panicked during conflict, and at other times, resentful. You struggle setting boundaries and holding them. Maybe your partner (or ex) is full of red flags you missed. Or maybe your new partner is a total green flag, but your anxiety remains. You feel too "needy" and too sensitive, and you try not to show it - but sometimes you can't help it
So...you're attracted to emotionally unavailable partners. You overgive, overcompromise, and people-please. You feel anxious when your partner isn’t with you, checking your phone every few minutes to see if they've texted. You're on an emotional roller coaster, feeling terrified of abandonment, panicked during conflict, and at other times, resentful. You struggle setting boundaries and holding them. Maybe your partner (or ex) is full of red flags you missed. Or maybe your new partner is a total green flag, but your anxiety remains. You feel too "needy" and too sensitive, and you try not to show it - but sometimes you can't help it
(289) 312-2092 View (289) 312-2092
Photo of Andrew Youssef (Phd Candidate), Pastoral Counsellor in Ancaster, ON
Andrew Youssef (Phd Candidate)
Pastoral Counsellor, MTS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8N
**See our website for other therapists accepting new clients** I am mental health therapist as well as a multi-faith spiritual and religious care provider (also known as a chaplain). My strength is working with anyone's faith and spirituality to help them with their mental health and spiritual journey. I work with all faiths and religious. In my practice, I see each client as a complex and unique person with stories, worldviews, and challenges. My goal is to aid you in accessing your inner resources such as the experiences you cultivate from your stories and the beliefs that find root in your worldviews to cope with challenges.
**See our website for other therapists accepting new clients** I am mental health therapist as well as a multi-faith spiritual and religious care provider (also known as a chaplain). My strength is working with anyone's faith and spirituality to help them with their mental health and spiritual journey. I work with all faiths and religious. In my practice, I see each client as a complex and unique person with stories, worldviews, and challenges. My goal is to aid you in accessing your inner resources such as the experiences you cultivate from your stories and the beliefs that find root in your worldviews to cope with challenges.
(289) 207-6729 View (289) 207-6729
Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Ancaster, ON
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9C
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 210-5106 View (289) 210-5106
Photo of Melanie Williamson, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ancaster, ON
Melanie Williamson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8S
Imagine a space where science and art harmonize, meeting you with understanding and creativity: this is the heart (and brain) of my therapy practice. I invite you on an exploration as unique as you are, where empathy lights the way. You are not alone, and I am so proud of you for taking this step! My own journey, where I overcame being unable to read until the 3rd grade, testifies that no obstacle is insurmountable with creativity, commitment, and support. I believe that for everyone, regardless of the cards dealt, there exist many paths to a fulfilling life—let’s discover together how your own path might unfold most vibrantly.
Imagine a space where science and art harmonize, meeting you with understanding and creativity: this is the heart (and brain) of my therapy practice. I invite you on an exploration as unique as you are, where empathy lights the way. You are not alone, and I am so proud of you for taking this step! My own journey, where I overcame being unable to read until the 3rd grade, testifies that no obstacle is insurmountable with creativity, commitment, and support. I believe that for everyone, regardless of the cards dealt, there exist many paths to a fulfilling life—let’s discover together how your own path might unfold most vibrantly.
(289) 274-5578 View (289) 274-5578
Photo of Lorna Anderson, Registered Psychotherapist in Ancaster, ON
Lorna Anderson
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P  (Online Only)
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** It’s a privilege and honour to be doing this work, and to walk alongside clients on their respective healing journeys. I believe that everyone is the expert of their own lives and life experiences. By working collaboratively and through meaning-making, I aim to support clients in connecting with their needs, dreams, hopes, as well as to the answers I believe each person has inside them. My approach is trauma-informed, non-directive, strength-based, and client-centered. Healing, the discovery of possibilities, one’s resilience, and one's gifts can all be part of the therapy process.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** It’s a privilege and honour to be doing this work, and to walk alongside clients on their respective healing journeys. I believe that everyone is the expert of their own lives and life experiences. By working collaboratively and through meaning-making, I aim to support clients in connecting with their needs, dreams, hopes, as well as to the answers I believe each person has inside them. My approach is trauma-informed, non-directive, strength-based, and client-centered. Healing, the discovery of possibilities, one’s resilience, and one's gifts can all be part of the therapy process.
(289) 272-7293 View (289) 272-7293
Photo of Dina Dawod, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ancaster, ON
Dina Dawod
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8H
I am committed to making a positive impact on people's lives. I am a firm believer in the power of empathy and active listening and I am dedicated to creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions. I believe that the most profound human connections are built upon empathy, trust, and a sincere desire to help others. My approach to therapy is integrative, drawing from various techniques to tailor treatment plans to the specific needs of each client. I have witnessed the transformative impact of a therapeutic relationship built on trust and mutual respect, as both a therapist and a client.
I am committed to making a positive impact on people's lives. I am a firm believer in the power of empathy and active listening and I am dedicated to creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions. I believe that the most profound human connections are built upon empathy, trust, and a sincere desire to help others. My approach to therapy is integrative, drawing from various techniques to tailor treatment plans to the specific needs of each client. I have witnessed the transformative impact of a therapeutic relationship built on trust and mutual respect, as both a therapist and a client.
(289) 302-7374 View (289) 302-7374
Photo of Krystina Di Matteo, Registered Psychotherapist in Ancaster, ON
Krystina Di Matteo
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9A  (Online Only)
Welcome! I understand how uncomfortable and difficult it can be to reach out for help, and you have taken the most difficult step already. I’m happy to support you in your healing journey – you don’t have to do this alone. I support youth and adults around issues with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, and relationship issues. I’m also a proud ally of the LGBTQ2S+ community.
Welcome! I understand how uncomfortable and difficult it can be to reach out for help, and you have taken the most difficult step already. I’m happy to support you in your healing journey – you don’t have to do this alone. I support youth and adults around issues with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, and relationship issues. I’m also a proud ally of the LGBTQ2S+ community.
(289) 216-6653 View (289) 216-6653
Photo of Kathleen McLean, Registered Social Worker in Ancaster, ON
Kathleen McLean
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8N  (Online Only)
I believe that challenges can be beautiful, albeit deeply painful, opportunities to create a life you feel inspired to live There is hope in every situation, and often life’s greatest lessons are learned during its biggest obstacles. Life's not always easy. Hardships and transitions can blindside you and leave you feeling like you’re just trying to survive, and on autopilot. And then the questions come: Who am I? How did I get here? The life you have doesn’t reflect the one you imagined. While we can not change the past, we can choose to create meaning in our experiences, and determine how its legacy comes forward with us.
I believe that challenges can be beautiful, albeit deeply painful, opportunities to create a life you feel inspired to live There is hope in every situation, and often life’s greatest lessons are learned during its biggest obstacles. Life's not always easy. Hardships and transitions can blindside you and leave you feeling like you’re just trying to survive, and on autopilot. And then the questions come: Who am I? How did I get here? The life you have doesn’t reflect the one you imagined. While we can not change the past, we can choose to create meaning in our experiences, and determine how its legacy comes forward with us.
(289) 302-7151 View (289) 302-7151

Online Therapists

Photo of Debra Barran, Registered Psychotherapist in Ancaster, ON
Debra Barran
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
****NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS IN VAUGHAN/MISSISSAUGA AND PHONE/VIDEO**** "I am not what has happened to me; I am what I choose to become" -Carl Jung. If you are stuck in the “I wish things had been different” mode,” and feel like there is little hope for change in your life; therapy provides an avenue to be heard, to grieve, to discover acceptance, and create a new future right now, as we work together to formulate small but consistent steps in the present. I believe that each person is unique and brings individualized strengths and skills to forge new paths in their lives and in their relationships. Together, we can reach your goals.
****NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS IN VAUGHAN/MISSISSAUGA AND PHONE/VIDEO**** "I am not what has happened to me; I am what I choose to become" -Carl Jung. If you are stuck in the “I wish things had been different” mode,” and feel like there is little hope for change in your life; therapy provides an avenue to be heard, to grieve, to discover acceptance, and create a new future right now, as we work together to formulate small but consistent steps in the present. I believe that each person is unique and brings individualized strengths and skills to forge new paths in their lives and in their relationships. Together, we can reach your goals.
(289) 512-2469 View (289) 512-2469
Photo of Taran Ranu, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ancaster, ON
Taran Ranu
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), MACP, CRPO
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5V  (Online Only)
My commitment as a therapist lies in fostering empathy, and compassion. I prioritize active listening to understand and address my clients' concerns. I also focus on personalizing the therapy session to my client’s needs while building a warm, inclusive, and validating safe space that is culturally responsive and socially just. In practice, I bring an inclusive space catered to individuals from diverse populations and socioeconomic backgrounds that advocate for women and men from various unique life experiences to feel empowered and understood.
My commitment as a therapist lies in fostering empathy, and compassion. I prioritize active listening to understand and address my clients' concerns. I also focus on personalizing the therapy session to my client’s needs while building a warm, inclusive, and validating safe space that is culturally responsive and socially just. In practice, I bring an inclusive space catered to individuals from diverse populations and socioeconomic backgrounds that advocate for women and men from various unique life experiences to feel empowered and understood.
(437) 292-3981 View (437) 292-3981
Photo of Morgan Fancy, Registered Psychotherapist in Ancaster, ON
Morgan Fancy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2K
Navigating the perinatal period can be both exciting and challenging. During this time, it's common to experience a wide range of emotions and adjustments. From the anticipation of a new arrival to the physical and emotional changes, the perinatal period is a unique and transformative journey. As you prepare to welcome your child, it's important to prioritize your mental well-being. Understanding the psychological aspects of this phase can help in coping with the changes and seeking support when needed. I believe in building a lasting connection with a therapist to support you through this life-changing process.
Navigating the perinatal period can be both exciting and challenging. During this time, it's common to experience a wide range of emotions and adjustments. From the anticipation of a new arrival to the physical and emotional changes, the perinatal period is a unique and transformative journey. As you prepare to welcome your child, it's important to prioritize your mental well-being. Understanding the psychological aspects of this phase can help in coping with the changes and seeking support when needed. I believe in building a lasting connection with a therapist to support you through this life-changing process.
(226) 270-7432 View (226) 270-7432
Photo of Fancy Therapy Services, Registered Psychotherapist in Ancaster, ON
Fancy Therapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2K
Imagine if... You weren’t constantly worried. You were confident in your abilities at home and work. Your past was only a distant memory instead of a ghost in your present. You had a space where you felt safe to talk about anything that is troubling you. You had someone you could talk to without fear of judgement or inadequacy. Stop feeling exhausted and start feeling stable. The use of psychotherapy can help you find yourself again, we understand you don’t want to feel this way forever. Our therapists are highly trained in a variety of issues and approaches. Let’s find the perfect therapist for you!
Imagine if... You weren’t constantly worried. You were confident in your abilities at home and work. Your past was only a distant memory instead of a ghost in your present. You had a space where you felt safe to talk about anything that is troubling you. You had someone you could talk to without fear of judgement or inadequacy. Stop feeling exhausted and start feeling stable. The use of psychotherapy can help you find yourself again, we understand you don’t want to feel this way forever. Our therapists are highly trained in a variety of issues and approaches. Let’s find the perfect therapist for you!
(226) 779-3684 View (226) 779-3684
Photo of Charlotte MacLean, Registered Psychotherapist in Ancaster, ON
Charlotte MacLean
Registered Psychotherapist, CCC, ADMH
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1G  (Online Only)
Welcome! Are you feeling lost, disconnected, exhausted or burnt out? Do you feel alone or a sense of disconnect for yourself or partner? Whatever your concern is, know you are not alone! I specialize in helping couples, families, and individuals through life's changes and conflicts. Relationships can be hard, but I'm here to meet you where you are. Together, we'll create a safe space for growth, discovery, and healing. My hope is that through our work you will gain a deeper perspective and apply tools beyond the therapeutic setting. I look forward to working with you as you embark on your therapeutic journey.
Welcome! Are you feeling lost, disconnected, exhausted or burnt out? Do you feel alone or a sense of disconnect for yourself or partner? Whatever your concern is, know you are not alone! I specialize in helping couples, families, and individuals through life's changes and conflicts. Relationships can be hard, but I'm here to meet you where you are. Together, we'll create a safe space for growth, discovery, and healing. My hope is that through our work you will gain a deeper perspective and apply tools beyond the therapeutic setting. I look forward to working with you as you embark on your therapeutic journey.
(289) 312-4350 View (289) 312-4350
Photo of Rui Tian, Registered Psychotherapist in Ancaster, ON
Rui Tian
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, PCPain
Verified Verified
Whitchurch-Stouffville, ON L4A  (Online Only)
practicing psychotherapy, clinical supervision, life coaching, consultation, training, and counselling through individual, couple family, and group formats. expertise in imental health (e.g. anxiety, depression, trauma); addictions (substances, problem gambling, eating, sex, and internet); concurrent disorders; developmental disability (ASD, MID, LD, ADHD, ODD); dual diagnosis; rehabilitation (MVA, WSIB, OWN, LTD, RTW, mTBI, and traumatic injuries); chronic illness (chronic pain and other chronic medical conditions); return to work, parenting (child and youth); couples and marital relationship, personal wellbeing/development.
practicing psychotherapy, clinical supervision, life coaching, consultation, training, and counselling through individual, couple family, and group formats. expertise in imental health (e.g. anxiety, depression, trauma); addictions (substances, problem gambling, eating, sex, and internet); concurrent disorders; developmental disability (ASD, MID, LD, ADHD, ODD); dual diagnosis; rehabilitation (MVA, WSIB, OWN, LTD, RTW, mTBI, and traumatic injuries); chronic illness (chronic pain and other chronic medical conditions); return to work, parenting (child and youth); couples and marital relationship, personal wellbeing/development.
(289) 207-6489 View (289) 207-6489
Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Ancaster, ON
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 207-6240 View (289) 207-6240
Photo of Sheryl Blum, Psychologist in Ancaster, ON
Sheryl Blum
Psychologist, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5V  (Online Only)
I have over 2 decades of counselling expertise. Special training in cognitive-behavior therapy at the Montreal General Hospital. I treat: anxiety/panic , fear of flying, depression, OCD, phobias, self-esteem, excessive worrying, procrastination, assertiveness, generalized anxiety, relationship isssues, sexual abuse and incest, insomnia, infertility, and general life stress. I also teach relaxation. I work with you, the client, together as a team on your goals. We will achieve your goals in a successful, organized manner. I offer warmth and empathy in a supportive environment. Contact me so that you can begin your awesome journey.
I have over 2 decades of counselling expertise. Special training in cognitive-behavior therapy at the Montreal General Hospital. I treat: anxiety/panic , fear of flying, depression, OCD, phobias, self-esteem, excessive worrying, procrastination, assertiveness, generalized anxiety, relationship isssues, sexual abuse and incest, insomnia, infertility, and general life stress. I also teach relaxation. I work with you, the client, together as a team on your goals. We will achieve your goals in a successful, organized manner. I offer warmth and empathy in a supportive environment. Contact me so that you can begin your awesome journey.
(647) 952-1970 View (647) 952-1970
Photo of Fema Jacob @ Psychotherapy for You, Registered Social Worker in Ancaster, ON
Fema Jacob @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6Y  (Online Only)
I want to understand the intricate details of your life that make you uniquely you and would be honoured to facilitate the process of your self discovery and healing. I love working with individuals in all walks of life including but not limited to individuals experiencing anxiety, panic and/or anxiety attacks, phobias, issues controlling anger, individuals wanting to improve self-esteem, those suffering from grief and loss of relationships, addictions, as well as those individuals looking for support with general life stressors.
I want to understand the intricate details of your life that make you uniquely you and would be honoured to facilitate the process of your self discovery and healing. I love working with individuals in all walks of life including but not limited to individuals experiencing anxiety, panic and/or anxiety attacks, phobias, issues controlling anger, individuals wanting to improve self-esteem, those suffering from grief and loss of relationships, addictions, as well as those individuals looking for support with general life stressors.
(289) 312-3208 View (289) 312-3208
Photo of Josset Johnson, Registered Social Worker in Ancaster, ON
Josset Johnson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Life happens to all of us, and it can be unfair, traumatic, disappointing, and stressful. It can leave you feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, hurt, and exhausted. Know that no matter the situation, you have what it takes; you are enough to overcome the problems that pose as barriers to your authentic connection to yourself and others. I have supported and equipped individuals, couples, and families to live a relational life of authentic connection to themselves and others regardless of the circumstances they encounter. There is hope in every situation! Remember, through the metamorphosis comes a beautiful butterfly!
Life happens to all of us, and it can be unfair, traumatic, disappointing, and stressful. It can leave you feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, hurt, and exhausted. Know that no matter the situation, you have what it takes; you are enough to overcome the problems that pose as barriers to your authentic connection to yourself and others. I have supported and equipped individuals, couples, and families to live a relational life of authentic connection to themselves and others regardless of the circumstances they encounter. There is hope in every situation! Remember, through the metamorphosis comes a beautiful butterfly!
(289) 203-1126 View (289) 203-1126
Photo of VivelaVitaTherapies, Registered Social Worker in Ancaster, ON
VivelaVitaTherapies
Registered Social Worker, BHSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2M
Do you want to develop strategies to better manage the thoughts, feelings and relationships that are holding you back from a healthy and productive life? Are you struggling to find enjoyment in life, experiencing mental or physical illness, grief, and loss, stress in your job, relationships or as a caregiver or parent? There are steps you can take to improve your psychological well-being, strengthen your relationships and attachments and move towards personal healing and growth. I am here to help you break the cycle or negative thoughts, emotions and relationships and take steps to experience a more positive and fulfilling life.
Do you want to develop strategies to better manage the thoughts, feelings and relationships that are holding you back from a healthy and productive life? Are you struggling to find enjoyment in life, experiencing mental or physical illness, grief, and loss, stress in your job, relationships or as a caregiver or parent? There are steps you can take to improve your psychological well-being, strengthen your relationships and attachments and move towards personal healing and growth. I am here to help you break the cycle or negative thoughts, emotions and relationships and take steps to experience a more positive and fulfilling life.
(226) 400-1912 View (226) 400-1912
Photo of Marc Shiffman, Psychologist in Ancaster, ON
Marc Shiffman
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6G
As a clinical psychologist, I have extensive training and experience in providing therapy to adults, teenagers, and families dealing with a wide range of presenting concerns, including but not limited to: anxiety, mood, trauma, grief, relationship problems, life transitions, workplace difficulties, etc. In my work I aim to fully understand you as a complex individual, to address the root causes of your difficulties, and help you in practical ways to live the life you'd choose for yourself.
As a clinical psychologist, I have extensive training and experience in providing therapy to adults, teenagers, and families dealing with a wide range of presenting concerns, including but not limited to: anxiety, mood, trauma, grief, relationship problems, life transitions, workplace difficulties, etc. In my work I aim to fully understand you as a complex individual, to address the root causes of your difficulties, and help you in practical ways to live the life you'd choose for yourself.
(437) 747-6231 View (437) 747-6231

See more therapy options for Ancaster

Compassion Focused Counsellors

How does compassion-focused therapy work?

Compassion-Focused Therapy is based on the idea that humans have at least three emotion regulation systems, including one that responds to threats and another that allows us to self-soothe. Those who experienced serious childhood adversity, the theory goes, have a hyperactive threat system and an underperforming self-soothing system, leaving them vulnerable to shame and a hypercritical mindset. CFT focuses on bringing these systems back into balance, helping the client be kinder to themselves and better able to accept kindness from others.

Is compassion-focused therapy a type of CBT?

Compassion-focused therapy is closely related to cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and employs many of its techniques. In addition to CBT, CFT also draws from the fields of biology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and Buddhism. It also has similarities to some types of trauma-focused therapies.

Is compassion-focused therapy evidence based?

Evidence suggests that CFT can be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. It has also been shown to be beneficial for individuals who may not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but who still struggle with persistent self-criticism and feelings of shame.

What are the limitations of compassion-focused therapy?

Compassion-focused therapy is still a relatively new therapy, and research on its efficacy is still in its early stages; while some studies have found positive results, many have suffered from quality issues or small sample sizes. And while most CFT clients find it difficult to practice self-compassion at first, some—especially those who actively fear compassion or are deeply uncomfortable being cared for—may not be fully open to the tenets of CFT, potentially limiting the therapy’s long-term effectiveness.