Compassion Focused Therapists in Ontario

Photo of Natalie Florence, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Natalie Florence
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
I have been comprehensively trained in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), addictions counselling, and Brainspotting.
Thank you for taking the first step and reaching out. Making change can be hard and many times we cannot do it alone. I support adults looking for support with their mental health or addiction concerns. Some key groups I support including perinatal mental health, those living with trauma, and specialize in the area of emotion dyregulation concerns, including Borderline Personality Disorder. I have a particular interest in helping other helpers, including First Responders, medical professionals, and fellow mental health workers.
I have been comprehensively trained in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), addictions counselling, and Brainspotting.
Thank you for taking the first step and reaching out. Making change can be hard and many times we cannot do it alone. I support adults looking for support with their mental health or addiction concerns. Some key groups I support including perinatal mental health, those living with trauma, and specialize in the area of emotion dyregulation concerns, including Borderline Personality Disorder. I have a particular interest in helping other helpers, including First Responders, medical professionals, and fellow mental health workers.
(226) 455-7190 View (226) 455-7190
Photo of Charlena Marcuccio, HBSc, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Charlena Marcuccio
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), HBSc, MACP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
Are you in deep suffering after having had an ethical non-monogamy experience go wrong, struggling to feel empowered in your sexuality, or overwhelmed by the amount of processing required to build safe, trusting, & satisfying relationships? Exploring alternative-style relationships can shine light on so much within us, including trauma, that previously went unnoticed. In our dare to adventure towards creating authentic relationship structures, we learn alongside the excitement that we have a lot of healing to do & skills to learn. Wherever you are on your path, a safe space to share & explore your story is essential to your healing.
Are you in deep suffering after having had an ethical non-monogamy experience go wrong, struggling to feel empowered in your sexuality, or overwhelmed by the amount of processing required to build safe, trusting, & satisfying relationships? Exploring alternative-style relationships can shine light on so much within us, including trauma, that previously went unnoticed. In our dare to adventure towards creating authentic relationship structures, we learn alongside the excitement that we have a lot of healing to do & skills to learn. Wherever you are on your path, a safe space to share & explore your story is essential to your healing.
(437) 524-0628 View (437) 524-0628
Photo of Bella Pahlevan_ Emergence Psychotherapy, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Bella Pahlevan_ Emergence Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5V
I use modalities such as CBT, DBT, person-centered, compassion focused therapy and trauma informed frameworks to address my clients needs.
If you experienced narcissistic abuse in your family, relationship or any other setting I understand how challenging it might be to heal the wounds, find your voice and self-esteem back. I believe that there's always a way to move forward and start to heal. What matters is that instead of giving up, you are seeking help and that means you are getting ready to use external and internal resources to move past what's causing you distress. I believe in providing a non-judgmental atmosphere where you feel safe to be yourself.
I use modalities such as CBT, DBT, person-centered, compassion focused therapy and trauma informed frameworks to address my clients needs.
If you experienced narcissistic abuse in your family, relationship or any other setting I understand how challenging it might be to heal the wounds, find your voice and self-esteem back. I believe that there's always a way to move forward and start to heal. What matters is that instead of giving up, you are seeking help and that means you are getting ready to use external and internal resources to move past what's causing you distress. I believe in providing a non-judgmental atmosphere where you feel safe to be yourself.
(437) 747-6250 View (437) 747-6250
Photo of Michelle Mailhiot (Psychotherapy For You Ontario), RP, CCPA, Registered Psychotherapist
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 Stephanie A Kennedy, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Stephanie A Kennedy
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Some modalities include cognitive/dialectical behavioural, compassion focused, and am branching out to Flash Technique and other trauma related modalities.
Are you looking for relief or make change in your experiences in feelings of being overwhelmed, overworked, anxiousness/anxiety, strain and stress, or seeing that your sleep is being affected? Maybe you are looking to work through the effects of historical experiences of trauma that affect your current day. Or may you be experiencing loss and grief in your life or of someone special, (un)expected changes in your life that you are finding hard to juggle, or maybe you are looking for ways to navigate different relationships in your life that take a toll. Then connecting with a therapist would be an asset to your journey.
Some modalities include cognitive/dialectical behavioural, compassion focused, and am branching out to Flash Technique and other trauma related modalities.
Are you looking for relief or make change in your experiences in feelings of being overwhelmed, overworked, anxiousness/anxiety, strain and stress, or seeing that your sleep is being affected? Maybe you are looking to work through the effects of historical experiences of trauma that affect your current day. Or may you be experiencing loss and grief in your life or of someone special, (un)expected changes in your life that you are finding hard to juggle, or maybe you are looking for ways to navigate different relationships in your life that take a toll. Then connecting with a therapist would be an asset to your journey.
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Photo of Tania Iskiw, RP, RCAT, Registered Psychotherapist
Tania Iskiw
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RCAT
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am largely inspired by approaches like sensorimotor psychotherapy, polyvagal theory, EMDR, arts-based approaches, compassion focused therapy, and internal family systems.
I am deeply invested in anti-oppressive, trauma-informed care and creating safety around tough topics. I believe in the power of including the body when exploring our emotions and thoughts, and work with the understanding that what wanted to happen (but couldn't happen) can get stuck in the body. Holding space to experiment with and process this is a beautiful thing. I believe that the parts of ourselves we tend to push away are not only manageable but valuable and that exploring our responses to the world can strengthen an understanding of what we need so that we can release what’s no longer working for us and thrive.
I am largely inspired by approaches like sensorimotor psychotherapy, polyvagal theory, EMDR, arts-based approaches, compassion focused therapy, and internal family systems.
I am deeply invested in anti-oppressive, trauma-informed care and creating safety around tough topics. I believe in the power of including the body when exploring our emotions and thoughts, and work with the understanding that what wanted to happen (but couldn't happen) can get stuck in the body. Holding space to experiment with and process this is a beautiful thing. I believe that the parts of ourselves we tend to push away are not only manageable but valuable and that exploring our responses to the world can strengthen an understanding of what we need so that we can release what’s no longer working for us and thrive.
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Photo of Dr. Whitney Taylor, PhD, CPsych, PMH-C, Psychologist
Dr. Whitney Taylor
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Navan, ON K4B
The human condition is inherently challenging. Our evolved mind readily ruminates about the past and frets about the future. Our modern society overwhelms us with choices, expectations, and seemingly endless demands on our time and energy. We pursue answers and achievements, only to be left with worry and sadness. We are disconnected from ourselves and from each other. If you're feeling lonely and uncertain, please know you are not alone and you are worthy of support. Although we cannot eliminate our suffering, we can change our relationship to painful thoughts and feelings to live more compassionately, flexibly, and skillfully.
The human condition is inherently challenging. Our evolved mind readily ruminates about the past and frets about the future. Our modern society overwhelms us with choices, expectations, and seemingly endless demands on our time and energy. We pursue answers and achievements, only to be left with worry and sadness. We are disconnected from ourselves and from each other. If you're feeling lonely and uncertain, please know you are not alone and you are worthy of support. Although we cannot eliminate our suffering, we can change our relationship to painful thoughts and feelings to live more compassionately, flexibly, and skillfully.
(613) 856-2820 View (613) 856-2820
Photo of Jaclyn Darling, BA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Jaclyn Darling
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Verified Verified
Chatham, ON N7L
Hello everyone! My name is Jaclyn (she/her) and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. I hold a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Psychology and a Minor in Women’s and Gender Studies from the University of Windsor, and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I am also a certified yoga teacher. I work with teens (16+) and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, low self-esteem and relationship issues.
Hello everyone! My name is Jaclyn (she/her) and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. I hold a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Psychology and a Minor in Women’s and Gender Studies from the University of Windsor, and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I am also a certified yoga teacher. I work with teens (16+) and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, low self-esteem and relationship issues.
(226) 918-9200 View (226) 918-9200
Photo of Brock Dickson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Brock Dickson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bobcaygeon, ON K0M
Waitlist for new clients
Overwhelmed? Not where you want to be? Feeling misunderstood and alone in your struggles? Something in your past have you stuck or is limiting your future? Whatever it may be, I’d love to hear more about your situation and explore where you would like things to be. I provide a comfortable environment and work hard to restore connections to what’s most important in your life. I am highly motivated to uproot shame, guilt, and fear in people’s lives to become more free, connected, and unburdened. Beyond the use of evidence-based treatments, what I prize the most is to value you as a person and partner with you to overcome any obstacle.
Overwhelmed? Not where you want to be? Feeling misunderstood and alone in your struggles? Something in your past have you stuck or is limiting your future? Whatever it may be, I’d love to hear more about your situation and explore where you would like things to be. I provide a comfortable environment and work hard to restore connections to what’s most important in your life. I am highly motivated to uproot shame, guilt, and fear in people’s lives to become more free, connected, and unburdened. Beyond the use of evidence-based treatments, what I prize the most is to value you as a person and partner with you to overcome any obstacle.
(705) 410-7279 View (705) 410-7279
Photo of Kesla Forsythe, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Kesla Forsythe
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4K
I also draw from Internal Family Systems, Emotion Focused Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
Booking for October - Living in survival mode is exhausting & I know it took a lot of energy to get here. I support folks looking for new ways to cope with distressing symptoms related to trauma, depression & anxiety. If you are struggling with anger, grief or major life transitions, this is not something you need to do alone & I can be with you while we bring understanding & compassion to what you're experiencing. I also offer Sex Therapy for individuals with concerns such as desire discrepancies, erectile dysfunction, pain, sexual trauma & understanding kink identity.
I also draw from Internal Family Systems, Emotion Focused Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
Booking for October - Living in survival mode is exhausting & I know it took a lot of energy to get here. I support folks looking for new ways to cope with distressing symptoms related to trauma, depression & anxiety. If you are struggling with anger, grief or major life transitions, this is not something you need to do alone & I can be with you while we bring understanding & compassion to what you're experiencing. I also offer Sex Therapy for individuals with concerns such as desire discrepancies, erectile dysfunction, pain, sexual trauma & understanding kink identity.
(437) 747-7878 View (437) 747-7878
Photo of Christine Grace McMulkin, MSW, RSW, MSc, Registered Social Worker
Christine Grace McMulkin
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MSc
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4L  (Online Only)
As well as Compassion focused and Mindfulness practices, I am supported by beach walks at dawn, singing soulful songs, dancing with carefree abandon to some old-fashioned rock and roll, hikes with a beloved golden retriever, and endless cups of tea.
At the heart of compassion focused therapy, is befriending ourselves and our humanness, as we navigate the challenges and pain that are part of our life journeys. Cultivating an inner ally and creating a place of safe refuge is foundational in quieting the harsh voice of self criticism, and making room for a more compassionate voice to emerge. Whether you are seeking guidance in navigating the impact of life stresses, losses, transitions, burdens, anxieties or depressions or are on a path of personal growth, I am devoted to supporting you in being with yourself in kinder, gentler and self honouring ways.
As well as Compassion focused and Mindfulness practices, I am supported by beach walks at dawn, singing soulful songs, dancing with carefree abandon to some old-fashioned rock and roll, hikes with a beloved golden retriever, and endless cups of tea.
At the heart of compassion focused therapy, is befriending ourselves and our humanness, as we navigate the challenges and pain that are part of our life journeys. Cultivating an inner ally and creating a place of safe refuge is foundational in quieting the harsh voice of self criticism, and making room for a more compassionate voice to emerge. Whether you are seeking guidance in navigating the impact of life stresses, losses, transitions, burdens, anxieties or depressions or are on a path of personal growth, I am devoted to supporting you in being with yourself in kinder, gentler and self honouring ways.
(437) 747-7543 View (437) 747-7543
Photo of Phoebe Jones, RN, BScN
Phoebe Jones
RN, BScN
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4L  (Online Only)
Are anxiety and worry taking up too much space in your life? Do you feel like have tried everything to deal with your anxiety but nothing has helped? You're not alone, but freedom from a life controlled by fear is possible. I'm Phoebe, I specialize in helping those with anxiety, fear, and self-doubt get back to living their best lives. I offer supportive, compassionate, and practical support for anxiety. My approach is holistic and informed by Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Are anxiety and worry taking up too much space in your life? Do you feel like have tried everything to deal with your anxiety but nothing has helped? You're not alone, but freedom from a life controlled by fear is possible. I'm Phoebe, I specialize in helping those with anxiety, fear, and self-doubt get back to living their best lives. I offer supportive, compassionate, and practical support for anxiety. My approach is holistic and informed by Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(437) 747-7870 View (437) 747-7870
Photo of Tanya Rust, MA, RP, CT, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Tanya Rust
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CT, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
Are there issues you have difficulty talking about with your friends and family? Are you needing a safe space to talk and explore things? Are there things in your life that you'd like to change but aren't sure where to start? Are you wanting more self-awareness and freedom from things that you feel are holding you back? This is possible! Your perspective can change and you can find greater clarity in life.
Are there issues you have difficulty talking about with your friends and family? Are you needing a safe space to talk and explore things? Are there things in your life that you'd like to change but aren't sure where to start? Are you wanting more self-awareness and freedom from things that you feel are holding you back? This is possible! Your perspective can change and you can find greater clarity in life.
(514) 612-7806 View (514) 612-7806
Photo of Madia Javid-Yazdi, RP, MEd, BJourn, Registered Psychotherapist
Madia Javid-Yazdi
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd, BJourn
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3Y
I work from a flexible perspective, pulling from various therapeutic approaches such as, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural, mindfulness, and self- compassion focused interventions to best meet your individual needs.
When struggles touch our lives, reaching out for guidance and support in an empathic, safe environment can assist us in addressing life stressors and foster healing. My goal is to collaboratively cultivate such a space with you so that you are free to explore, empowered to reach insights, and encouraged to engage in new and constructive strategies. All the while, shedding light on your strengths and abilities to cope and thrive. I have an interest in working with individuals facing anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism, life transitions, stress, burnout, parenting, and relational concerns.
I work from a flexible perspective, pulling from various therapeutic approaches such as, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural, mindfulness, and self- compassion focused interventions to best meet your individual needs.
When struggles touch our lives, reaching out for guidance and support in an empathic, safe environment can assist us in addressing life stressors and foster healing. My goal is to collaboratively cultivate such a space with you so that you are free to explore, empowered to reach insights, and encouraged to engage in new and constructive strategies. All the while, shedding light on your strengths and abilities to cope and thrive. I have an interest in working with individuals facing anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism, life transitions, stress, burnout, parenting, and relational concerns.
(647) 493-1810 View (647) 493-1810
Photo of Teens Tweens Sasha Pinney, RP (Q), Pre-Licensed Professional
Teens Tweens Sasha Pinney
Pre-Licensed Professional, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4L  (Online Only)
We all have the inherent capacity for growth, change, and connection. Together we can bring light and acceptance to the hidden, forgotten, and wondrous aspects of ourselves that make us uniquely human. Having worked in education, I understand the value and challenges that come with growth and would be honoured to walk alongside you through this process.
We all have the inherent capacity for growth, change, and connection. Together we can bring light and acceptance to the hidden, forgotten, and wondrous aspects of ourselves that make us uniquely human. Having worked in education, I understand the value and challenges that come with growth and would be honoured to walk alongside you through this process.
(647) 955-8456 View (647) 955-8456
Photo of Kate Little, BPHE, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kate Little
Registered Psychotherapist, BPHE, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6S
We all deserve unwavering support and empathy throughout our life's journey. Facing life's challenges, be it transitions, emotional lows, stressors, or grief, is part of our shared human experience. My therapeutic approach is grounded in compassion and sincere curiosity. I create a nurturing space for individuals to freely share their unique narratives, fostering a secure environment where thoughts and emotions can be openly expressed.
We all deserve unwavering support and empathy throughout our life's journey. Facing life's challenges, be it transitions, emotional lows, stressors, or grief, is part of our shared human experience. My therapeutic approach is grounded in compassion and sincere curiosity. I create a nurturing space for individuals to freely share their unique narratives, fostering a secure environment where thoughts and emotions can be openly expressed.
(647) 692-2628 View (647) 692-2628
Photo of Crina Fantanaru, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Crina Fantanaru
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2T
What do you need, and what stands in the way? We can figure it all out together. With 25+ years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals heal and discover effective therapy tools. My expertise spans anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, addictions, relationship issues, work-related stress, grief, negative body image, and eating disorders. Having worked extensively with military, law enforcement, and CAS, I offer therapy for uniformed personnel, first responders, CAS workers, and their families. I provide coaching to help clients achieve their life and career goals with regular check-ins to maintain motivativation.
What do you need, and what stands in the way? We can figure it all out together. With 25+ years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals heal and discover effective therapy tools. My expertise spans anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, addictions, relationship issues, work-related stress, grief, negative body image, and eating disorders. Having worked extensively with military, law enforcement, and CAS, I offer therapy for uniformed personnel, first responders, CAS workers, and their families. I provide coaching to help clients achieve their life and career goals with regular check-ins to maintain motivativation.
(226) 796-6703 View (226) 796-6703
Photo of Natalie Thomas, PhD, MACP, BA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Natalie Thomas
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, MACP, BA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
Waitlist for new clients
If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, grief or other losses, coping with a past that includes traumatic events or childhood experiences, and want to find ways to build your own mental and emotional resiliency, then it can be helpful to work with someone to find ways to heal, feel supported and heard. You may also be worried or anxious about the way things are in world related to post-pandemic life, climate change, conflict and economic uncertainty. Or, you may struggle to feel understood as someone who is gifted and/or highly sensitive, or may be experiencing challenges in your close relationships or with your partner.
If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, grief or other losses, coping with a past that includes traumatic events or childhood experiences, and want to find ways to build your own mental and emotional resiliency, then it can be helpful to work with someone to find ways to heal, feel supported and heard. You may also be worried or anxious about the way things are in world related to post-pandemic life, climate change, conflict and economic uncertainty. Or, you may struggle to feel understood as someone who is gifted and/or highly sensitive, or may be experiencing challenges in your close relationships or with your partner.
(226) 796-8320 View (226) 796-8320
Photo of Kristina Scully, BA, MC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kristina Scully
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MC, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2M
I use an integrative, compassion focused, and collaborative approach to therapy, wherein I draw from multiple theories and techniques in order to tailor treatment to meet the needs of each client.
Currently welcoming new clients of all ages! For both virtual and in person sessions with daytime and evening availability. My name is Kristina Scully and I am a Registered Psychotherapist who has over 10 years experience working as a clinical therapist. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, substance use, relationship issues, disordered eating and trauma. I have worked extensively with adolescents, youth and adults.
I use an integrative, compassion focused, and collaborative approach to therapy, wherein I draw from multiple theories and techniques in order to tailor treatment to meet the needs of each client.
Currently welcoming new clients of all ages! For both virtual and in person sessions with daytime and evening availability. My name is Kristina Scully and I am a Registered Psychotherapist who has over 10 years experience working as a clinical therapist. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, substance use, relationship issues, disordered eating and trauma. I have worked extensively with adolescents, youth and adults.
(343) 304-6216 View (343) 304-6216
Photo of Meryl Baron Witkin, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Meryl Baron Witkin
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5N
Using a Psychodynamic lense, I take a Humanistic approach using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Strength-Based Therapy (SBT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Life can throw you challenging situations that leave you feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained. Whether you're battling stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties, you're not alone. I understand the emotions and challenges you're experiencing and want you to know there's a path towards healing. I will provide a safe, judgment-free space where you can freely share. Together, we'll uncover the root causes of your struggles and find strategies to move forward. I draw upon various therapeutic modalities, tailored to your unique needs, to help you regain control of your life and achieve emotional well-being.
Using a Psychodynamic lense, I take a Humanistic approach using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Strength-Based Therapy (SBT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Life can throw you challenging situations that leave you feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained. Whether you're battling stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties, you're not alone. I understand the emotions and challenges you're experiencing and want you to know there's a path towards healing. I will provide a safe, judgment-free space where you can freely share. Together, we'll uncover the root causes of your struggles and find strategies to move forward. I draw upon various therapeutic modalities, tailored to your unique needs, to help you regain control of your life and achieve emotional well-being.
(647) 933-5717 View (647) 933-5717
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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.