Compassion Focused Counselling in Birmingham

Photo of Birmingham Solihull Therapy, Psychotherapist in Birmingham, England
Birmingham Solihull Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Birmingham B28
I use traditional forms of CBT, alongside approaches such as mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT).
If anxiety is getting in the way of you living your life the way you want to, we can work together to change that. Anxiety can creep up on us and there doesn't need to have been a big trigger for it to have a real impact on our lives. I work with people to overcome a range of anxiety based difficulties and have a particular interest in supporting people with OCD, phobias and panic attacks. Cognitive behavioural therapy can help you understand your anxiety, become less fearful of it and find ways to tackle it. Therapy can also help you to recognise what you are already doing that is helpful - there is always more than you think!
I use traditional forms of CBT, alongside approaches such as mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT).
If anxiety is getting in the way of you living your life the way you want to, we can work together to change that. Anxiety can creep up on us and there doesn't need to have been a big trigger for it to have a real impact on our lives. I work with people to overcome a range of anxiety based difficulties and have a particular interest in supporting people with OCD, phobias and panic attacks. Cognitive behavioural therapy can help you understand your anxiety, become less fearful of it and find ways to tackle it. Therapy can also help you to recognise what you are already doing that is helpful - there is always more than you think!
023 8254 4417 View 023 8254 4417
Photo of sctherapyandwellbeing, Counsellor in Birmingham, England
sctherapyandwellbeing
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Birmingham B18  (Online Only)
Hi I am Sheena. As an experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist, I offer various therapeutic approaches to support you with the difficulties that you may be experiencing. The therapeutic approaches that I offer are short and long-term Integrative Counselling, CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), CFT (Compassion Focused Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitisation Reprocessing). I have Accredited status with BACP (British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy) and BABCP (British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies).
Hi I am Sheena. As an experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist, I offer various therapeutic approaches to support you with the difficulties that you may be experiencing. The therapeutic approaches that I offer are short and long-term Integrative Counselling, CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), CFT (Compassion Focused Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitisation Reprocessing). I have Accredited status with BACP (British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy) and BABCP (British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies).
0121 817 7525 View 0121 817 7525
Photo of Dr Rosalind Brock, Psychologist in Birmingham, England
Dr Rosalind Brock
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Birmingham B38
I use a number of therapy models including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hello, I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I can offer you a warm, supportive environment in which to explore and understand the issues that have brought you to therapy. Using evidence-based interventions, we can work collaboratively together towards change. For almost twenty years, I have been working with adults with a variety of difficulties including PTSD, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD, phobia, attachment difficulties, birth trauma, baby loss, childhood or relationship issues and eating difficulties. I have a wealth of experience from both NHS and private settings to draw on to support you.
I use a number of therapy models including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hello, I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I can offer you a warm, supportive environment in which to explore and understand the issues that have brought you to therapy. Using evidence-based interventions, we can work collaboratively together towards change. For almost twenty years, I have been working with adults with a variety of difficulties including PTSD, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD, phobia, attachment difficulties, birth trauma, baby loss, childhood or relationship issues and eating difficulties. I have a wealth of experience from both NHS and private settings to draw on to support you.
0121 728 6567 View 0121 728 6567
Photo of Samiyya Khan, Psychotherapist in Birmingham, England
Samiyya Khan
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Birmingham B1
“I like to draw flexibly on ‘third wave approaches such as Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, as tailored to my client’s needs.
I have developed substantial knowledge and experience within the private sector of working at Priory Organisation. Now, I am venturing out to build my own practice at London, Harley Street. I have over 10 years in primary and secondary mental health within the adult sector. This was in the context of several services including forensic settings, CAMHS, eating disorder, personality disorder units, in-patient acute/PICU wards, rehabilitation units and neurological/brain injury units. In 2016, I began to deliver psychological therapy/CBT in various IAPT programmes.
“I like to draw flexibly on ‘third wave approaches such as Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, as tailored to my client’s needs.
I have developed substantial knowledge and experience within the private sector of working at Priory Organisation. Now, I am venturing out to build my own practice at London, Harley Street. I have over 10 years in primary and secondary mental health within the adult sector. This was in the context of several services including forensic settings, CAMHS, eating disorder, personality disorder units, in-patient acute/PICU wards, rehabilitation units and neurological/brain injury units. In 2016, I began to deliver psychological therapy/CBT in various IAPT programmes.
01564 331527 View 01564 331527
Photo of Urban Living: therapy and well-being, Psychologist in Birmingham, England
Urban Living: therapy and well-being
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Birmingham B23
I work from a compassion focused perspective and always work at my client's pace and with their goals.
Urban living therapy and well being, is an umbrella term for the type of therapy that I offer. I am a clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience of working with people with complex psychological issues. Very often what brings clients into therapy with me is an accumulation of live stressors, both from past experiences and current everyday challenges. Anxiety, depression, poor emotional coping, self-harm, interpersonal or relationship issues are the areas they wish to address. My clients seek to resolve old issues and develop better ways of managing their emotions and relationships with others.
I work from a compassion focused perspective and always work at my client's pace and with their goals.
Urban living therapy and well being, is an umbrella term for the type of therapy that I offer. I am a clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience of working with people with complex psychological issues. Very often what brings clients into therapy with me is an accumulation of live stressors, both from past experiences and current everyday challenges. Anxiety, depression, poor emotional coping, self-harm, interpersonal or relationship issues are the areas they wish to address. My clients seek to resolve old issues and develop better ways of managing their emotions and relationships with others.
0121 726 1327 View 0121 726 1327
Photo of Dr Caroline Cox, Psychologist in Birmingham, England
Dr Caroline Cox
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Birmingham B30
As a clinical psychologist, I am trained to provide talking therapy/ counselling using a range of evidenced based psychological models, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) and I draw on scientific psychological theory and psychoanalytic theory in my practice.
I work with those who are looking to improve their psychological wellbeing, lower their stress levels, find ways to manage low mood, anxiety or phobias, increase their self-esteem, or work towards personal development goals. I also work with those who may be struggling with the emotional or psychological impact of living with a health condition, such as managing fatigue and/ or pain, adjusting to diagnosis or treatment and managing difficult feelings.
As a clinical psychologist, I am trained to provide talking therapy/ counselling using a range of evidenced based psychological models, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) and I draw on scientific psychological theory and psychoanalytic theory in my practice.
I work with those who are looking to improve their psychological wellbeing, lower their stress levels, find ways to manage low mood, anxiety or phobias, increase their self-esteem, or work towards personal development goals. I also work with those who may be struggling with the emotional or psychological impact of living with a health condition, such as managing fatigue and/ or pain, adjusting to diagnosis or treatment and managing difficult feelings.
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Photo of Dr Lianne Beadsmoore, Psychologist in Birmingham, England
Dr Lianne Beadsmoore
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
Birmingham B15  (Online Only)
I am trained in various therapeutic modalities, including EMDR Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy.
My name is Lianne and I am a Chartered and Registered Psychologist and a Qualified EMDR Therapist. I have a broad range of experience in helping individuals improve their mental health and well-being. I am committed to providing a supportive and empathetic environment where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes in your life. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other mental health concern, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions.
I am trained in various therapeutic modalities, including EMDR Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy.
My name is Lianne and I am a Chartered and Registered Psychologist and a Qualified EMDR Therapist. I have a broad range of experience in helping individuals improve their mental health and well-being. I am committed to providing a supportive and empathetic environment where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes in your life. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other mental health concern, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions.
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Photo of Dr Lauren Rockliffe, Psychologist in Birmingham, England
Dr Lauren Rockliffe
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
Birmingham B10  (Online Only)
I take an integrative approach to the work that I do, drawing upon elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), and Solution Focused Therapy (SFT).
You might be looking to lose weight to help improve your overall health and wellbeing. Perhaps you’ve been struggling with your weight for a while, and you're looking to address the underlying emotional, behavioural, or psychological factors that contribute to your relationship with food and body image. Whatever your reasons are for wanting to lose weight, my aim is to support you to better understand your behaviour and to help you make healthy, long-lasting changes.
I take an integrative approach to the work that I do, drawing upon elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), and Solution Focused Therapy (SFT).
You might be looking to lose weight to help improve your overall health and wellbeing. Perhaps you’ve been struggling with your weight for a while, and you're looking to address the underlying emotional, behavioural, or psychological factors that contribute to your relationship with food and body image. Whatever your reasons are for wanting to lose weight, my aim is to support you to better understand your behaviour and to help you make healthy, long-lasting changes.
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Photo of Dr Sophie Gwinnett, Psychologist in Birmingham, England
Dr Sophie Gwinnett
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Birmingham B1
I offer a variety of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR).
My name is Sophie and I am a clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience working in the NHS and private sector. Trained in a variety of evidence based therapies including CBT and EMDR, I deliver individually tailored interventions that enable people to experience lasting, meaningful change in their lives. Within the private sector I work with adults with a range of psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, grief, health issues and relationship difficulties. I also spent many years working in the NHS with people affected by changes in their health, including persistent pain and cancer.
I offer a variety of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR).
My name is Sophie and I am a clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience working in the NHS and private sector. Trained in a variety of evidence based therapies including CBT and EMDR, I deliver individually tailored interventions that enable people to experience lasting, meaningful change in their lives. Within the private sector I work with adults with a range of psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, grief, health issues and relationship difficulties. I also spent many years working in the NHS with people affected by changes in their health, including persistent pain and cancer.
01922 214818 View 01922 214818
Photo of Dr Suzanne Roberts, Psychotherapist in Birmingham, England
Dr Suzanne Roberts
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Birmingham B1
The evidence-based therapies I am trained in include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR), Schema Therapy and Attachment-based Psychotherapy.
My name is Suzanne and I worked as a Registered Nurse in the NHS for over 20 years and trained as an Integrative Psychotherapist in 2014, working in a range of settings including the NHS, with an array of psychological difficulties. I provide both short and long-term therapy and my approach integrates a range of effective therapeutic interventions tailored to meet the needs of the client. Within the private sector I work with adults with a range of psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, grief, health issues and relationship difficulties. I work with NHS clients affected by physical health issues.
The evidence-based therapies I am trained in include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR), Schema Therapy and Attachment-based Psychotherapy.
My name is Suzanne and I worked as a Registered Nurse in the NHS for over 20 years and trained as an Integrative Psychotherapist in 2014, working in a range of settings including the NHS, with an array of psychological difficulties. I provide both short and long-term therapy and my approach integrates a range of effective therapeutic interventions tailored to meet the needs of the client. Within the private sector I work with adults with a range of psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, grief, health issues and relationship difficulties. I work with NHS clients affected by physical health issues.
01902 951901 View 01902 951901
Photo of The Growth & Guidance Clinic, Psychotherapist in Birmingham, England
The Growth & Guidance Clinic
Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
Birmingham B1
My Name is Letoya Bailey and I consider myself an incredibly grateful person. Every day I get to do work that not only feels meaningful and fulfilling but also, to me, feels like nothing short of a calling. ​ I believe wholeheartedly in the transformative power of the work of therapy and I consider it an honour to be able to support you on your journey. I work with the full range of mental health difficulties, from short term to those that are severe. Emotional struggles present themselves in many ways, for example, Depression, Anxiety and Relationship Difficulties.
My Name is Letoya Bailey and I consider myself an incredibly grateful person. Every day I get to do work that not only feels meaningful and fulfilling but also, to me, feels like nothing short of a calling. ​ I believe wholeheartedly in the transformative power of the work of therapy and I consider it an honour to be able to support you on your journey. I work with the full range of mental health difficulties, from short term to those that are severe. Emotional struggles present themselves in many ways, for example, Depression, Anxiety and Relationship Difficulties.
0121 285 3639 View 0121 285 3639
Photo of Julia Shute, Psychologist in Birmingham, England
Julia Shute
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Birmingham B45
I'm an HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist working with adult clients who want to gain more out of their life and relationships, and overcome problematic thoughts, feelings and behaviours that hold them back. I specialise in treating anxiety/panic attacks, depression/self-esteem, relationship/attachment issues, trauma/abuse as child or adult, domestic abuse, loss/bereavement, disability/health conditions. Together with each client I develop a shared understanding of problems and the aims that are important to the person. I offer tailored therapy to reduce distressing problems, overcome unhelpful patterns and improve wellbeing.
I'm an HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist working with adult clients who want to gain more out of their life and relationships, and overcome problematic thoughts, feelings and behaviours that hold them back. I specialise in treating anxiety/panic attacks, depression/self-esteem, relationship/attachment issues, trauma/abuse as child or adult, domestic abuse, loss/bereavement, disability/health conditions. Together with each client I develop a shared understanding of problems and the aims that are important to the person. I offer tailored therapy to reduce distressing problems, overcome unhelpful patterns and improve wellbeing.
0121 817 7145 View 0121 817 7145
Dr Soraya Michelle De Boni
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Birmingham B27
Do you feel stuck, lost and alone in life? Do you feel overwhelmed by your problems and struggle to understand why you feel so unhappy and unfulfilled? Do you worry about letting people get emotionally close to you and so tend to distance yourself from others? Yet then feel isolated and deeply unhappy? Have you always felt different or as though there was something wrong with you? Do you have a longing to understand yourself and feel an emotional connection with people in your life? I have worked with many people with these kinds of problems. It is likely that you experienced emotional neglect or trauma as a child.
Do you feel stuck, lost and alone in life? Do you feel overwhelmed by your problems and struggle to understand why you feel so unhappy and unfulfilled? Do you worry about letting people get emotionally close to you and so tend to distance yourself from others? Yet then feel isolated and deeply unhappy? Have you always felt different or as though there was something wrong with you? Do you have a longing to understand yourself and feel an emotional connection with people in your life? I have worked with many people with these kinds of problems. It is likely that you experienced emotional neglect or trauma as a child.
0121 285 4539 View 0121 285 4539
Photo of Farishta Jalal, Psychotherapist in Birmingham, England
Farishta Jalal
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Birmingham B16
Hello and welcome to my page. I am Farishta Jalal. I am an accredited Cognitive Behaviour Therapist having gained my Postgraduate Diploma in CBT at the University of Derby. I am also a qualified and experienced EMDR Therapist. I have experience of working with adults aged 16+, presenting with a wide range of psychological difficulties. Areas of expertise include: Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, social anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, Post-natal depression, and workplace stress. I have a particular interest in the area of psychological trauma including childhood sexual abuse, RTA, bullying, domestic violence, one-off traumas and complicated grief.
Hello and welcome to my page. I am Farishta Jalal. I am an accredited Cognitive Behaviour Therapist having gained my Postgraduate Diploma in CBT at the University of Derby. I am also a qualified and experienced EMDR Therapist. I have experience of working with adults aged 16+, presenting with a wide range of psychological difficulties. Areas of expertise include: Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, social anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, Post-natal depression, and workplace stress. I have a particular interest in the area of psychological trauma including childhood sexual abuse, RTA, bullying, domestic violence, one-off traumas and complicated grief.
0121 728 6554 View 0121 728 6554
Photo of Trauma Informed Psychotherapy-Amina Begum, Psychotherapist in Birmingham, England
Trauma Informed Psychotherapy-Amina Begum
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Birmingham B9  (Online Only)
I am a BACP & MNCPS Accredited (Somatic) Psychotherapist and qualified Clinical Supervisor with many years experience working with issues of Sexual Abuse (Male & Female), Childhood Sexual Abuse, Adult & Childhood Trauma, Complex Trauma, Self-Harm, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Anxiety, Depression, Self Harm, Flashbacks, Suicide Ideation, Family Issues, Relationship issues. I offer a warm, compassionate and non judgmental therapeutic relationship creating a safe space where you can freely explore your issues, feel heard, make sense of your difficulties and ultimately transition towards living a more fulfilled and empowered life.
I am a BACP & MNCPS Accredited (Somatic) Psychotherapist and qualified Clinical Supervisor with many years experience working with issues of Sexual Abuse (Male & Female), Childhood Sexual Abuse, Adult & Childhood Trauma, Complex Trauma, Self-Harm, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Anxiety, Depression, Self Harm, Flashbacks, Suicide Ideation, Family Issues, Relationship issues. I offer a warm, compassionate and non judgmental therapeutic relationship creating a safe space where you can freely explore your issues, feel heard, make sense of your difficulties and ultimately transition towards living a more fulfilled and empowered life.
0121 817 7044 View 0121 817 7044
Photo of Ross Wykes, Counsellor in Birmingham, England
Ross Wykes
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Birmingham B5
Welcome. I'm Ross, an Integrative Counsellor dedicated to supporting people on their journey towards healing, growth, and self-discovery. Drawing from my own experiences of overcoming mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety, I offer compassionate guidance and practical tools to help you navigate life's ups and downs with resilience and clarity. I understand first-hand the courage and strength it takes to confront inner demons and emerge stronger on the other side, and I congratulate you in taking that first step towards healing and wholeness.
Welcome. I'm Ross, an Integrative Counsellor dedicated to supporting people on their journey towards healing, growth, and self-discovery. Drawing from my own experiences of overcoming mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety, I offer compassionate guidance and practical tools to help you navigate life's ups and downs with resilience and clarity. I understand first-hand the courage and strength it takes to confront inner demons and emerge stronger on the other side, and I congratulate you in taking that first step towards healing and wholeness.
0121 387 0137 View 0121 387 0137
Photo of Dr Rebecca Ryan, Psychologist in Birmingham, England
Dr Rebecca Ryan
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Birmingham B1  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging & we're all doing our best to navigate it. That's where therapy comes in - a safe space where you can be heard, understood, & realise that you're not alone. My training and experience guide me to provide a personalised approach to your care. Recognising that each person is unique, the therapeutic journey begins with understanding the roots of your current difficulties. I draw on a variety of psychological models to offer the support that best fits your needs. I’ve worked with individuals from all walks of life, with needs such as trauma, relational difficulties, complex emotional needs, depression & anxiety.
Life can be challenging & we're all doing our best to navigate it. That's where therapy comes in - a safe space where you can be heard, understood, & realise that you're not alone. My training and experience guide me to provide a personalised approach to your care. Recognising that each person is unique, the therapeutic journey begins with understanding the roots of your current difficulties. I draw on a variety of psychological models to offer the support that best fits your needs. I’ve worked with individuals from all walks of life, with needs such as trauma, relational difficulties, complex emotional needs, depression & anxiety.
0121 827 1161 View 0121 827 1161
Photo of Sian Allen, Psychologist in Birmingham, England
Sian Allen
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
Birmingham B30
I am Dr Siân Allen, a Forensic Psychologist with over 17 years of experience working with adults and adolescents with moderate and complex mental health and emotional difficulties, working alongside them to reduce their experience of distress and to promote mental wellbeing. I have significant experience working with people who are neurodiverse. I firmly believe that everyone deserves to live a life worth living and I work collaboratively and flexibly with people to help them to make sense of their experiences and to find a manageable way forward in line with their values.
I am Dr Siân Allen, a Forensic Psychologist with over 17 years of experience working with adults and adolescents with moderate and complex mental health and emotional difficulties, working alongside them to reduce their experience of distress and to promote mental wellbeing. I have significant experience working with people who are neurodiverse. I firmly believe that everyone deserves to live a life worth living and I work collaboratively and flexibly with people to help them to make sense of their experiences and to find a manageable way forward in line with their values.
0121 387 3492 View 0121 387 3492
Photo of VanEssence Counselling, Counsellor in Birmingham, England
VanEssence Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Birmingham B9  (Online Only)
Stress, anxiety, depression is no longer such a taboo subject, yet we often tell ourselves, I can cope with this myself or maybe nobody will want to listen because nobody has time, or how about I’m too ashamed and I blame myself so I will cope with this by myself...... Well I am here to offer you the space to speak the unspoken and explore worrying thoughts together. The problem might be a recent incident that has left you feeling unsettled or a long standing concern deep rooted in unresolved trauma that has affected you e.g. sleepless nights, social anxiety, fear, relationship issue, performance at work, mood, self worth.
Stress, anxiety, depression is no longer such a taboo subject, yet we often tell ourselves, I can cope with this myself or maybe nobody will want to listen because nobody has time, or how about I’m too ashamed and I blame myself so I will cope with this by myself...... Well I am here to offer you the space to speak the unspoken and explore worrying thoughts together. The problem might be a recent incident that has left you feeling unsettled or a long standing concern deep rooted in unresolved trauma that has affected you e.g. sleepless nights, social anxiety, fear, relationship issue, performance at work, mood, self worth.
0121 752 2680 View 0121 752 2680
Photo of Waqar Azam, Psychotherapist in Birmingham, England
Waqar Waqar Azam
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Birmingham B28
If you’ve found yourself here searching for a therapist, then I can imagine that you are going through some tough times at the moment. Life can be difficult, and things can get all too much at times. Whether its emotional distress, depression, anxiety or feeling dissatisfied and empty if your life, we all go through these hardships and sometimes need some help to navigate through and overcome these times.
If you’ve found yourself here searching for a therapist, then I can imagine that you are going through some tough times at the moment. Life can be difficult, and things can get all too much at times. Whether its emotional distress, depression, anxiety or feeling dissatisfied and empty if your life, we all go through these hardships and sometimes need some help to navigate through and overcome these times.
0121 726 8224 View 0121 726 8224

See more therapy options for Birmingham

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.