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Online Therapists

Photo of Michelle Mailhiot (Psychotherapy For You Ontario), Registered Psychotherapist in Dunsford, ON
Michelle Mailhiot (Psychotherapy For You Ontario)
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCPA
Verified Verified
Petawawa, ON K8H  (Online Only)
The approach I use is trauma-focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), attachment based Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Compassion Focused Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for complex trauma.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist who helps people who are struggling with feelings of guilt, shame, and depression. Many of these are common symptoms for people who struggle with mental health conditions. Understanding the barriers in a person’s life, and previous trauma, can help identify present day triggers and daily struggles. The goal of therapy would be to work collaboratively, using a psychotherapy framework, to identify the cause of the struggles and work towards understanding and reducing symptoms affecting your daily life.
The approach I use is trauma-focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), attachment based Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Compassion Focused Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for complex trauma.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist who helps people who are struggling with feelings of guilt, shame, and depression. Many of these are common symptoms for people who struggle with mental health conditions. Understanding the barriers in a person’s life, and previous trauma, can help identify present day triggers and daily struggles. The goal of therapy would be to work collaboratively, using a psychotherapy framework, to identify the cause of the struggles and work towards understanding and reducing symptoms affecting your daily life.
(343) 453-6022 View (343) 453-6022
Photo of Miranda Elise Klimowski, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist in Dunsford, ON
Miranda Elise Klimowski, MA, RP
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5V
Her extensive expertise includes Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Adlerian Therapy, and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) which I can utilize in your sessions at Canadian Therapy.
How important is it for you to engage with a therapist who deeply understands and can help you with childhood trauma and adverse experiences? Would you value a therapeutic experience centred on empathy, safety and a personal commitment to your growth and healing? I am passionate about assisting my clients grappling with childhood trauma, addiction, self-esteem issues, and relationship challenges. Offering individual and marriage counselling, I emphasize self-esteem, anxiety, alcohol addiction, coping strategies, childhood trauma, and life transitions.
Her extensive expertise includes Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Adlerian Therapy, and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) which I can utilize in your sessions at Canadian Therapy.
How important is it for you to engage with a therapist who deeply understands and can help you with childhood trauma and adverse experiences? Would you value a therapeutic experience centred on empathy, safety and a personal commitment to your growth and healing? I am passionate about assisting my clients grappling with childhood trauma, addiction, self-esteem issues, and relationship challenges. Offering individual and marriage counselling, I emphasize self-esteem, anxiety, alcohol addiction, coping strategies, childhood trauma, and life transitions.
(437) 800-0368 View (437) 800-0368
Photo of Tessa Groten, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Dunsford, ON
Tessa Groten
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5H
I work with women struggling with anxiety, depression, domestic violence, trauma, grief, anger & self esteem . Here you'll find solution-focused answers that result in lasting, positive change and growth. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for everyone, but using a combination of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and other therapies, I will tailor a plan just for you to achieve your goals and gain the tools to face whatever life brings you. Learn to live a peaceful, symptom-free life with your needs and goals in mind. I've been where you are - it takes a lot of courage to ask for help, and I will be here for you every step of the way.
I work with women struggling with anxiety, depression, domestic violence, trauma, grief, anger & self esteem . Here you'll find solution-focused answers that result in lasting, positive change and growth. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for everyone, but using a combination of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and other therapies, I will tailor a plan just for you to achieve your goals and gain the tools to face whatever life brings you. Learn to live a peaceful, symptom-free life with your needs and goals in mind. I've been where you are - it takes a lot of courage to ask for help, and I will be here for you every step of the way.
(343) 338-4135 View (343) 338-4135
Photo of Richie Han, Registered Psychotherapist in Dunsford, ON
Richie Han
Registered Psychotherapist, MS, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I see myself as a facilitator of change and a witness to my clients' journeys of self-discovery. I believe that everyone has the potential for growth and transformation, and I feel honored to accompany my clients on their path towards healing and wholeness. Taking after others who have inspired me, I encourage my clients to step into their power and courageously embrace their vulnerability as a source of strength and connection. My approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, authenticity, and curiosity. I strive to create a non-judgmental and supportive environment where clients feel heard, seen, and understood.
As a therapist, I see myself as a facilitator of change and a witness to my clients' journeys of self-discovery. I believe that everyone has the potential for growth and transformation, and I feel honored to accompany my clients on their path towards healing and wholeness. Taking after others who have inspired me, I encourage my clients to step into their power and courageously embrace their vulnerability as a source of strength and connection. My approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, authenticity, and curiosity. I strive to create a non-judgmental and supportive environment where clients feel heard, seen, and understood.
(289) 803-9988 View (289) 803-9988
Photo of self employed, Registered Social Worker in Dunsford, ON
self employed
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5N  (Online Only)
I am a registered Social Worker with over 35 years of experience, working with children, adolescents, couples, adults, seniors and families. I provide and create a comfortable, judgement-free, supportive, and compassionate environment, so that you will feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings about your issues. Working from a strength-based approach, I help clients with issues such as anxiety, depression, communication, transitions, trauma, self-esteem, parenting, relationships, separations, grief, and interpersonal conflict. Please feel free to contact me for a complimentary 15 minute zoom or telephone consult.
I am a registered Social Worker with over 35 years of experience, working with children, adolescents, couples, adults, seniors and families. I provide and create a comfortable, judgement-free, supportive, and compassionate environment, so that you will feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings about your issues. Working from a strength-based approach, I help clients with issues such as anxiety, depression, communication, transitions, trauma, self-esteem, parenting, relationships, separations, grief, and interpersonal conflict. Please feel free to contact me for a complimentary 15 minute zoom or telephone consult.
(647) 956-7240 View (647) 956-7240
Photo of Dina Dawod, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Dunsford, ON
Dina Dawod
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
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 Nicole Bagshaw, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Dunsford, ON
Nicole Bagshaw
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
I believe that each person carries the ability to grow, and when given the right tools and support, can thrive under any environment. As a psychotherapist, it is my job to help clients foster this change by using my educational background, experience, and insight. I work with individuals of all ages, couples, and families and understand the importance of relationships, and how at our core, everyone wants to be heard. I see therapy as a resource that can be used to see strengths, create confidence, and develop skills that will last a lifetime. I look forward to building up my clients and find joy in helping them find their voice.
I believe that each person carries the ability to grow, and when given the right tools and support, can thrive under any environment. As a psychotherapist, it is my job to help clients foster this change by using my educational background, experience, and insight. I work with individuals of all ages, couples, and families and understand the importance of relationships, and how at our core, everyone wants to be heard. I see therapy as a resource that can be used to see strengths, create confidence, and develop skills that will last a lifetime. I look forward to building up my clients and find joy in helping them find their voice.
(289) 302-7874 View (289) 302-7874
Photo of Dorothy Lee, Registered Psychotherapist in Dunsford, ON
Dorothy Lee
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K  (Online Only)
Hope is powerful and is often what helps us push forward when life’s challenges become confusing and overwhelming. Yet, hope can be difficult to find and hold on to. I cannot promise solutions, but I am committed to walking with individuals, couples, and families in their search for understanding, growth, healing, and hope. I take a holistic and collaborative approach in exploring deeper emotions and thought patterns in past and present experiences.
Hope is powerful and is often what helps us push forward when life’s challenges become confusing and overwhelming. Yet, hope can be difficult to find and hold on to. I cannot promise solutions, but I am committed to walking with individuals, couples, and families in their search for understanding, growth, healing, and hope. I take a holistic and collaborative approach in exploring deeper emotions and thought patterns in past and present experiences.
(289) 272-9388 View (289) 272-9388
Photo of Alpana Das-Daffern, Registered Social Worker in Dunsford, ON
Alpana Das-Daffern
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1W  (Online Only)
Hi, I wanted to share with you that I am a registered member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and a part of the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). One of my top priorities is to stay current and well-informed for both you and the clients I serve. I have attended numerous evidence-based trainings to ensure that I can provide you with the best care possible.
Hi, I wanted to share with you that I am a registered member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and a part of the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). One of my top priorities is to stay current and well-informed for both you and the clients I serve. I have attended numerous evidence-based trainings to ensure that I can provide you with the best care possible.
(365) 544-3478 View (365) 544-3478
Photo of Debra Barran, Registered Psychotherapist in Dunsford, 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 Sean Hale, Registered Psychotherapist in Dunsford, ON
Sean Hale
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4W  (Online Only)
I have 12+ years experience working in coaching and psychotherapy. While working with both individuals and couples, I provide an empathetic and non-judgemental approach. I work with a range of clients and specialize in Relationship issues, Men's issues, Life Transitions, Communication, Self-esteem, Identity development, Overcoming Shame, Mood regulation and LGBTQ+ issues. My approach is eclectic, meaning that one size does not fit all. I work within your paradigm to find what works for you. I work with you at your pace and using methodologies that are most suited to your needs.
I have 12+ years experience working in coaching and psychotherapy. While working with both individuals and couples, I provide an empathetic and non-judgemental approach. I work with a range of clients and specialize in Relationship issues, Men's issues, Life Transitions, Communication, Self-esteem, Identity development, Overcoming Shame, Mood regulation and LGBTQ+ issues. My approach is eclectic, meaning that one size does not fit all. I work within your paradigm to find what works for you. I work with you at your pace and using methodologies that are most suited to your needs.
(647) 905-0540 View (647) 905-0540
Photo of Taran Ranu, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Dunsford, 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 Nidhi Gandhi, Registered Psychotherapist in Dunsford, ON
Nidhi Gandhi
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
I believe that each individual has the capacity for growth through self-awareness and acceptance. I have supported individuals to recognize their optimal potential, develop and maintain healthy meaningful relationships, while making choices that are in the interest of oneself and others. I help my clients free themselves from disabling assumptions and attitudes so they can live fuller lives. As a trauma-informed therapist, I aim to create a warm, non-judgmental environment to facilitate growth and change.
I believe that each individual has the capacity for growth through self-awareness and acceptance. I have supported individuals to recognize their optimal potential, develop and maintain healthy meaningful relationships, while making choices that are in the interest of oneself and others. I help my clients free themselves from disabling assumptions and attitudes so they can live fuller lives. As a trauma-informed therapist, I aim to create a warm, non-judgmental environment to facilitate growth and change.
(289) 301-7334 View (289) 301-7334
Photo of Therapy for Men - David Taller, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Dunsford, ON
Therapy for Men - David Taller
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA Hons
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6G  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients As someone who has been to therapy before, I understand how difficult it is to find the right therapist that helps you overcome the issues you face. You are here because you're ready for change, tackling challenges, and to seek a fulfilling life. Feeling stuck or lost is common, but you're not alone. A compassionate, safe space awaits where you can explore these feelings and rediscover your purpose. Together, we'll face life's hurdles, encouraging growth and self-discovery. You're supported with empathy and without judgment, easing feelings of loneliness and anxiety as we aim for impactful life transformations.
Accepting New Clients As someone who has been to therapy before, I understand how difficult it is to find the right therapist that helps you overcome the issues you face. You are here because you're ready for change, tackling challenges, and to seek a fulfilling life. Feeling stuck or lost is common, but you're not alone. A compassionate, safe space awaits where you can explore these feelings and rediscover your purpose. Together, we'll face life's hurdles, encouraging growth and self-discovery. You're supported with empathy and without judgment, easing feelings of loneliness and anxiety as we aim for impactful life transformations.
(437) 747-8620 View (437) 747-8620
Photo of Marlen Iskander, Registered Psychotherapist in Dunsford, ON
Marlen Iskander
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** When our thoughts get the better of us and we feel overwhelmed, I believe there is always hope to reach the peace for which we all yearn. Through psychotherapy, I support clients struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, identity, and relationships. We all have times when we aren’t sure where we stand in our lives and with others, so I offer a safe and welcoming space where clients can express and find themselves. We are complex individuals with our own unique stories made up of our experiences. Therapy is an empowering space where we can explore these without judgment.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** When our thoughts get the better of us and we feel overwhelmed, I believe there is always hope to reach the peace for which we all yearn. Through psychotherapy, I support clients struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, identity, and relationships. We all have times when we aren’t sure where we stand in our lives and with others, so I offer a safe and welcoming space where clients can express and find themselves. We are complex individuals with our own unique stories made up of our experiences. Therapy is an empowering space where we can explore these without judgment.
(289) 216-5843 View (289) 216-5843
Photo of Stef Wood, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Dunsford, ON
Stef Wood
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA, RYT 200, RP-(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1G  (Online Only)
Struggling with seasonal affective disorder? MindSpark Psychotherapy is a virtual online clinic that can assist you on your personal healing journey. I treat individuals struggling with life transitions, trauma, ADHD, depression, anxiety, phobias, corporate burnout, narcissism, gaslighting, religious trauma, and other related mental health concerns. My training and experience allows me to offer effective and individualized psychological care with a unique passion for mindfulness and stress reduction. I offer cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), as well as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR).
Struggling with seasonal affective disorder? MindSpark Psychotherapy is a virtual online clinic that can assist you on your personal healing journey. I treat individuals struggling with life transitions, trauma, ADHD, depression, anxiety, phobias, corporate burnout, narcissism, gaslighting, religious trauma, and other related mental health concerns. My training and experience allows me to offer effective and individualized psychological care with a unique passion for mindfulness and stress reduction. I offer cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), as well as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR).
(289) 814-2231 View (289) 814-2231
Photo of Christine Park, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Dunsford, ON
Christine Park
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K  (Online Only)
“We are not human beings having a spiritual experience. We are spiritual beings having a human experience.” -Pierre Teilhard de Chardin. I believe that every person has inherent worth and is on a journey of healing, growth, and love. We all come with our own challenges and strengths. However, there may have been things that have made life not okay for you and that has brought on a layer of challenges that are heavy to hold alone. My commitment is to meet individuals, couples, and families in their process of making sense of the mysteries and difficulties in which we find ourselves and to offer encouragement, comfort, and hope.
“We are not human beings having a spiritual experience. We are spiritual beings having a human experience.” -Pierre Teilhard de Chardin. I believe that every person has inherent worth and is on a journey of healing, growth, and love. We all come with our own challenges and strengths. However, there may have been things that have made life not okay for you and that has brought on a layer of challenges that are heavy to hold alone. My commitment is to meet individuals, couples, and families in their process of making sense of the mysteries and difficulties in which we find ourselves and to offer encouragement, comfort, and hope.
(289) 312-5945 View (289) 312-5945
Photo of Cassandra Claire Morrison, Registered Social Worker in Dunsford, ON
Cassandra Claire Morrison
Registered Social Worker, MSW , RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5C
Hi, and welcome. I’m so happy you are here. If you are experiencing mental health challenges as it relates to relationships concerns, eating disorders, depression, anxiety and low-self esteem, I would love to support you. Let’s get you to a place of unconditional self-love and acceptance, achieving goals serenity, acceptance, wholeness, and happiness so you can live a calmer, fulfilled, enriched life and thrive. If you find yourself returning to destructive relationships, having low self-esteem and negative self-talk, and low coping skills or emotional regulation, I’d love to work with you!
Hi, and welcome. I’m so happy you are here. If you are experiencing mental health challenges as it relates to relationships concerns, eating disorders, depression, anxiety and low-self esteem, I would love to support you. Let’s get you to a place of unconditional self-love and acceptance, achieving goals serenity, acceptance, wholeness, and happiness so you can live a calmer, fulfilled, enriched life and thrive. If you find yourself returning to destructive relationships, having low self-esteem and negative self-talk, and low coping skills or emotional regulation, I’d love to work with you!
(647) 792-5388 View (647) 792-5388
Photo of Krista Gatti @ Psychotherapy for You, Registered Social Worker in Dunsford, ON
Krista Gatti @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peterborough, ON K9H  (Online Only)
I am a registered social Worker and Psychotherapist in Ontario. I am also a member of Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I obtained my bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba and obtained my Masters of Social Work from the University of Windsor. I have a certificate in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I also have a certificate in Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapy and Brian Spotting. I started my career by providing support to individuals who were struggling with life challenges. I have experience working with a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, separation, and sel
I am a registered social Worker and Psychotherapist in Ontario. I am also a member of Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I obtained my bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba and obtained my Masters of Social Work from the University of Windsor. I have a certificate in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I also have a certificate in Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapy and Brian Spotting. I started my career by providing support to individuals who were struggling with life challenges. I have experience working with a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, separation, and sel
(343) 307-4960 View (343) 307-4960
Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Dunsford, 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
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.