Photo of Dina Dawod, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Dina Dawod
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
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 Justin the Therapist, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Justin the Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
***STILL OPEN FOR IN-PERSON GUELPH/MISSISSAUGA*** I believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. I have helped hundreds of individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As a relational therapist, I appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. I do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, I see my clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. I see strengths and I see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***STILL OPEN FOR IN-PERSON GUELPH/MISSISSAUGA*** I believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. I have helped hundreds of individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As a relational therapist, I appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. I do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, I see my clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. I see strengths and I see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 274-8209 View (289) 274-8209
Photo of Abi Awotunde, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Abi Awotunde
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z  (Online Only)
Some people have been dealt a difficult hand in life which can make pushing forward seem impossible. Challenges like anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and relational issues can be hard to navigate alone. I believe each person has the ability and skill to be able to help themselves. It's my role to help support people in that process. My job is not to “fix”, but to guide and assist you with becoming your best self. I have worked in both clinical and community settings with individuals, families, children, and youth from various ages and backgrounds and have learned much about the strength of the people I have worked with.
Some people have been dealt a difficult hand in life which can make pushing forward seem impossible. Challenges like anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and relational issues can be hard to navigate alone. I believe each person has the ability and skill to be able to help themselves. It's my role to help support people in that process. My job is not to “fix”, but to guide and assist you with becoming your best self. I have worked in both clinical and community settings with individuals, families, children, and youth from various ages and backgrounds and have learned much about the strength of the people I have worked with.
(289) 271-1882 View (289) 271-1882
Photo of Ginelle Foskin, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Ginelle Foskin
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR IN-PERSON (SAUGA/VAUGHAN) AND PHONE/VIDEO*** Let’s be honest, life is hard, and in many ways, we juggle more today than we ever have! Life’s challenges can leave us feeling stressed, confused, demotivated, even helpless and hopeless. It can be a tough road to travel, but you don't have to walk it alone. As a therapist, I don’t think anyone should feel that way. I am committed to supporting my clients with guidance, care, and connected to the proper resources. With experience working with youth, students, adults, and parents, I enjoy collaborating with clients on a variety of challenges.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR IN-PERSON (SAUGA/VAUGHAN) AND PHONE/VIDEO*** Let’s be honest, life is hard, and in many ways, we juggle more today than we ever have! Life’s challenges can leave us feeling stressed, confused, demotivated, even helpless and hopeless. It can be a tough road to travel, but you don't have to walk it alone. As a therapist, I don’t think anyone should feel that way. I am committed to supporting my clients with guidance, care, and connected to the proper resources. With experience working with youth, students, adults, and parents, I enjoy collaborating with clients on a variety of challenges.
(289) 217-9898 View (289) 217-9898
Photo of Marian Shinuda, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Marian Shinuda
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
I believe that people are much more understandable when you know their life journey. I believe in the power of human connection and the healing that this connection alone can bring about in therapy. My clients know that I am there rooting for them as they navigate difficult chapters: past, present, and future. This is why I am always honoured and excited to hear someone’s story. Looking at the different layers of your story will help us track where certain patterns and cycles have started. Together, we will work through the parts that need healing. We will move forward with this information to make positive changes in your life.
I believe that people are much more understandable when you know their life journey. I believe in the power of human connection and the healing that this connection alone can bring about in therapy. My clients know that I am there rooting for them as they navigate difficult chapters: past, present, and future. This is why I am always honoured and excited to hear someone’s story. Looking at the different layers of your story will help us track where certain patterns and cycles have started. Together, we will work through the parts that need healing. We will move forward with this information to make positive changes in your life.
(289) 536-4543 View (289) 536-4543
Photo of Jacqueline (Jackie) Salas @mindfulpsychology, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Jacqueline (Jackie) Salas @mindfulpsychology
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5G
I am a member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, currently pursuing my registration with the College of Psychologists. Having worked in various clinical and forensic settings, I have developed an open awareness of the intersections of factors that shape clients’ mental health and well-being. I am respectful and considerate of cultural and contextual factors when offering support. My approach is warm, empathic, and grounded in humanistic principles while utilizing evidence-based interventions to help my client achieve his, her or their goals.
I am a member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, currently pursuing my registration with the College of Psychologists. Having worked in various clinical and forensic settings, I have developed an open awareness of the intersections of factors that shape clients’ mental health and well-being. I am respectful and considerate of cultural and contextual factors when offering support. My approach is warm, empathic, and grounded in humanistic principles while utilizing evidence-based interventions to help my client achieve his, her or their goals.
(647) 794-5400 x5 View (647) 794-5400 x5
Photo of Andrew Youssef (Phd Candidate), Pastoral Counsellor in Mississauga, ON
Andrew Youssef (Phd Candidate)
Pastoral Counsellor, MTS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
**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 Mississauga, ON
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
***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 Michael Franceschetti, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Michael Franceschetti
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” - Carl Rogers I believe that the first step in moving towards the life you want is to accept yourself and your position as they are. This is not a request to settle, but rather, an invitation to look at the cards you hold. Only after accepting how things are can your next steps be determined. I can provide the space for you to express how difficult things are, while the healing relationship we build together will serve as the vehicle driving change. Seeking support is not easy, and you are stronger than you think by simply taking this first step.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” - Carl Rogers I believe that the first step in moving towards the life you want is to accept yourself and your position as they are. This is not a request to settle, but rather, an invitation to look at the cards you hold. Only after accepting how things are can your next steps be determined. I can provide the space for you to express how difficult things are, while the healing relationship we build together will serve as the vehicle driving change. Seeking support is not easy, and you are stronger than you think by simply taking this first step.
(437) 747-0981 View (437) 747-0981
Photo of YYZ Talks, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
YYZ Talks
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MC, RSW, ADHDCSP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5B
Our team of Registered Psychotherapists and Social Workers have extensive training to integrate multiple approaches to help you get unstuck and heal by gaining new insights, processing painful feelings, developing new coping skills, and to ultimately build resilience. Past events can affect our experience of the present and what we can imagine for our future. We're here to help you work through the things that are holding you back. Serving all of Ontario virtually, with flexible appointments available, we’re here to help.
Our team of Registered Psychotherapists and Social Workers have extensive training to integrate multiple approaches to help you get unstuck and heal by gaining new insights, processing painful feelings, developing new coping skills, and to ultimately build resilience. Past events can affect our experience of the present and what we can imagine for our future. We're here to help you work through the things that are holding you back. Serving all of Ontario virtually, with flexible appointments available, we’re here to help.
(437) 291-8462 View (437) 291-8462
Photo of Krysta Andrews, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Krysta Andrews
Registered Social Worker, RSW, PhD, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
We all have a story to tell that is uniquely ours. These stories can include our positive experiences but also times when we're faced with challenges that can make us feel stressed, overwhelmed, and unmotivated. As a therapist, I'm committed to providing you with a non-judgmental and safe space to tell your story. Whether you're facing a life transition, the effects of trauma, or challenges in your relationships—I want to help you to discover your strengths, embrace self-compassion, and take manageable steps towards your goals. I work holistically and collaboratively to tailor to the specific needs, values, and goals of each client.
We all have a story to tell that is uniquely ours. These stories can include our positive experiences but also times when we're faced with challenges that can make us feel stressed, overwhelmed, and unmotivated. As a therapist, I'm committed to providing you with a non-judgmental and safe space to tell your story. Whether you're facing a life transition, the effects of trauma, or challenges in your relationships—I want to help you to discover your strengths, embrace self-compassion, and take manageable steps towards your goals. I work holistically and collaboratively to tailor to the specific needs, values, and goals of each client.
(289) 301-9606 View (289) 301-9606
Photo of Debra Barran, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Debra Barran
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
****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 Tijana Pesic, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Tijana Pesic
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5W
I provide individual, couples & family therapy. Do you feel burdened by your thoughts? Are feeling overwhelmed? Do you find it challenging to fall asleep at night? Do you wish that you could just turn your mind off, to finally get a few moments of peace? I can help you take your life back, feel better, experience ease of being and get more restful sleep. I help individuals overcome anxiety, depression, burnout, overwhelm & stress. I also help couples who have many unmet needs; feel frustrated, resentful & angry in their relationship; struggle to communicate effectively; no longer experience intimacy or have lost trust.
I provide individual, couples & family therapy. Do you feel burdened by your thoughts? Are feeling overwhelmed? Do you find it challenging to fall asleep at night? Do you wish that you could just turn your mind off, to finally get a few moments of peace? I can help you take your life back, feel better, experience ease of being and get more restful sleep. I help individuals overcome anxiety, depression, burnout, overwhelm & stress. I also help couples who have many unmet needs; feel frustrated, resentful & angry in their relationship; struggle to communicate effectively; no longer experience intimacy or have lost trust.
(289) 302-7948 View (289) 302-7948
Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
***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 Michael Hooghiem, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Michael Hooghiem
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Life rarely goes according to plan, and in our most difficult times, many of us have not had the support and tools needed to navigate losses, transitions, and traumas. My role is to help you find your way through hardship, while expanding your capacity to meet challenges from a place of resilience and acceptance. Your struggles are not due to your own inadequacy; rather, I believe all behaviour makes sense on some level, when viewed from the right perspective. I work from a holistic stance that accounts for the individual, cultural, and societal factors affecting each of us uniquely, and therefore requires a personalized approach.
Life rarely goes according to plan, and in our most difficult times, many of us have not had the support and tools needed to navigate losses, transitions, and traumas. My role is to help you find your way through hardship, while expanding your capacity to meet challenges from a place of resilience and acceptance. Your struggles are not due to your own inadequacy; rather, I believe all behaviour makes sense on some level, when viewed from the right perspective. I work from a holistic stance that accounts for the individual, cultural, and societal factors affecting each of us uniquely, and therefore requires a personalized approach.
(226) 840-3194 View (226) 840-3194
Photo of NKS Therapy, Counsellor in Mississauga, ON
NKS Therapy
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4W
Voted Top 5 in Toronto for Best Psychotherapists in 2021, NKS Therapy is a team of psychotherapists, marriage/family therapists, counsellors and life coaches in Toronto, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Oakville who specialize in mental health support for adults, couples, teenagers, and families. With multiple experts on the NKS Therapy team, we will help you achieve your goals through a deeper understanding of yourself, and help you make conscious choices today. We offer sessions virtually & in-person. Start living a better life today with a FREE 15-minute therapy consultation! A Happier, Healthier, Better Version of Yourself awaits.
Voted Top 5 in Toronto for Best Psychotherapists in 2021, NKS Therapy is a team of psychotherapists, marriage/family therapists, counsellors and life coaches in Toronto, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Oakville who specialize in mental health support for adults, couples, teenagers, and families. With multiple experts on the NKS Therapy team, we will help you achieve your goals through a deeper understanding of yourself, and help you make conscious choices today. We offer sessions virtually & in-person. Start living a better life today with a FREE 15-minute therapy consultation! A Happier, Healthier, Better Version of Yourself awaits.
(289) 206-7074 View (289) 206-7074
Photo of Gui Mansilla, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Gui Mansilla
Registered Psychotherapist, Lawyer, MDiv, RP CRPO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4W
Are you tired of surviving and ready to recover your thriving capabilities? Do you find yourself lacking motivation or inspiration to act upon your dreams? Do you find that you have no dreams or can't seem to find a compelling future to move towards? Is your past preventing you from thoroughly enjoying your present? I have more than 17 thousand hours of direct client contact and decades of experience in the field. I am creative, compassionate, and resourceful and have created a "toolbox" of evidence-based methods to achieve positive and long-lasting change. I am confident that with commitment & perseverance, you can reach your goals
Are you tired of surviving and ready to recover your thriving capabilities? Do you find yourself lacking motivation or inspiration to act upon your dreams? Do you find that you have no dreams or can't seem to find a compelling future to move towards? Is your past preventing you from thoroughly enjoying your present? I have more than 17 thousand hours of direct client contact and decades of experience in the field. I am creative, compassionate, and resourceful and have created a "toolbox" of evidence-based methods to achieve positive and long-lasting change. I am confident that with commitment & perseverance, you can reach your goals
(289) 210-6231 View (289) 210-6231
Photo of Ana Montero Trauma Integration And Mind Healing, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Ana Montero Trauma Integration And Mind Healing
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5C
Every single person will need compassionate support, personalized guidance and wisdom, at some point in their lives. If you have a history of trauma, a painful childhood, or have suffered from anxiety/depression for a long time, then this is even more true of you. Emotions and thoughts can be confusing and even hurtful to yourself and others. Some mental states are so complex, that seem to be layer upon layer of suffering. Life can be a rollercoaster and healthy stable relationships appear to be too much work! Imagine not to be defined by your history or struggles. Imagine being able to tap into joy and inner strength at any time!
Every single person will need compassionate support, personalized guidance and wisdom, at some point in their lives. If you have a history of trauma, a painful childhood, or have suffered from anxiety/depression for a long time, then this is even more true of you. Emotions and thoughts can be confusing and even hurtful to yourself and others. Some mental states are so complex, that seem to be layer upon layer of suffering. Life can be a rollercoaster and healthy stable relationships appear to be too much work! Imagine not to be defined by your history or struggles. Imagine being able to tap into joy and inner strength at any time!
(647) 696-1799 View (647) 696-1799
Photo of Cristina Barrios, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Cristina Barrios
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4W  (Online Only)
You are here, you have taken the courageous first step to reach out for support. Whether you are wanting to understand yourself better, coping with stress or changes, experiencing mental health challenges, or need a safe space to talk. You are not alone, and together we can pave a path forward. Through the development of a trusting, safe, and non-judgemental relationship, we will explore what’s most important to you. My goal is to compassionately support your journey towards understanding yourself better, moving towards a place of acceptance, developing new and healthy coping strategies, and making changes towards your goals.
You are here, you have taken the courageous first step to reach out for support. Whether you are wanting to understand yourself better, coping with stress or changes, experiencing mental health challenges, or need a safe space to talk. You are not alone, and together we can pave a path forward. Through the development of a trusting, safe, and non-judgemental relationship, we will explore what’s most important to you. My goal is to compassionately support your journey towards understanding yourself better, moving towards a place of acceptance, developing new and healthy coping strategies, and making changes towards your goals.
(647) 957-9438 View (647) 957-9438
Photo of Ivan Abreu, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Ivan Abreu
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4V  (Online Only)
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, or the weight of unresolved trauma or grief? Do you feel stuck in patterns that hinder your relationships, work, or daily life? Many individuals today face these struggles, often feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about how to navigate life's challenges. I believe that, within ourselves, we have all the resources we need to overcome our challenges and live a full, meaningful, and satisfying life. Sometimes, we just need a little guidance to tap into them. As a fully Registered Psychotherapist with over 10 years of experience, I feel confident I can support you in your journey.
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, or the weight of unresolved trauma or grief? Do you feel stuck in patterns that hinder your relationships, work, or daily life? Many individuals today face these struggles, often feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about how to navigate life's challenges. I believe that, within ourselves, we have all the resources we need to overcome our challenges and live a full, meaningful, and satisfying life. Sometimes, we just need a little guidance to tap into them. As a fully Registered Psychotherapist with over 10 years of experience, I feel confident I can support you in your journey.
(905) 901-0395 View (905) 901-0395

See more therapy options for Mississauga

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.