Compassion Focused Counselling in Fleet

Photo of Maria Fragkou, Psychotherapist in Fleet, England
Maria Fragkou
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Fleet GU51
I am a BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist, an EMDR Therapist, and a clinical supervisor. I offer CBT and EMDR, and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify how therapy can meet their needs and alleviate distress. I work with people with a variety of psychological difficulties, such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, PTSD / C-PTSD, and loss. I work with people who experience distress in the perinatal period and I also offer parenting support. I also specialise in adapting CBT for Autism Spectrum Condition and ADHD. You can find more information about me on www.adapted-therapies.com
I am a BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist, an EMDR Therapist, and a clinical supervisor. I offer CBT and EMDR, and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify how therapy can meet their needs and alleviate distress. I work with people with a variety of psychological difficulties, such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, PTSD / C-PTSD, and loss. I work with people who experience distress in the perinatal period and I also offer parenting support. I also specialise in adapting CBT for Autism Spectrum Condition and ADHD. You can find more information about me on www.adapted-therapies.com
01689 664654 View 01689 664654
Photo of Stuart Ralph, Psychotherapist in Fleet, England
Stuart Ralph
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Fleet GU51
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients from 4 years up to 25. I see a wide range of challenges including OCD, anxiety, depression, grief, school refusal, identity, mood, and peer problems. I have a special interest in OCD, having run a podcast for the last 7 years (5m downloads), and received the International OCD Foundation hero award in 2018. Childhood, adolescence and young adulthood can come with many challenges and difficulties, I offer a safe, empathic and compassionate approach to my clients, while providing evidence based solutions to their problems. I work in private practice, and as co-founder of The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy.
I work with clients from 4 years up to 25. I see a wide range of challenges including OCD, anxiety, depression, grief, school refusal, identity, mood, and peer problems. I have a special interest in OCD, having run a podcast for the last 7 years (5m downloads), and received the International OCD Foundation hero award in 2018. Childhood, adolescence and young adulthood can come with many challenges and difficulties, I offer a safe, empathic and compassionate approach to my clients, while providing evidence based solutions to their problems. I work in private practice, and as co-founder of The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy.
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Photo of Emma Irwin (Dip. Couns Mbacp) (Mncps Acc.), Counsellor in Fleet, England
Emma Irwin (Dip. Couns Mbacp) (Mncps Acc.)
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fleet GU51
It can feel dauting looking for the right counsellor but I’m passionate about helping you achieve your end goal. I’ll listen to you with understanding and kindness – which can be hard to give to ourselves - in confidence; with no judgement. You can tell me as much – or as little – as you like at your pace. Together, we can work through whatever's troubling you and find the right resolution for you. Whatever you want, the relationship between us is key so I offer a FREE initial 15-minute telephone consultation. I provide affordable counselling; your mental health is important to me, so that your life can become more fulfilled.
It can feel dauting looking for the right counsellor but I’m passionate about helping you achieve your end goal. I’ll listen to you with understanding and kindness – which can be hard to give to ourselves - in confidence; with no judgement. You can tell me as much – or as little – as you like at your pace. Together, we can work through whatever's troubling you and find the right resolution for you. Whatever you want, the relationship between us is key so I offer a FREE initial 15-minute telephone consultation. I provide affordable counselling; your mental health is important to me, so that your life can become more fulfilled.
01252 412605 View 01252 412605
Photo of Caroline Ellison Counselling, Counsellor in Fleet, England
Caroline Ellison Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fleet GU51
I offer Individual and Couples Therapy in-person and online. I'll support you with kindness, compassion, empathy and understanding. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, stress or something else and are looking for support from someone who will listen without judgement in a confidential and safe environment please get in touch. Are you a carer looking after a loved one with a life limiting illness? or generally just don’t feel good about yourself? Whether you are looking to cope with a specific mental health issue, better manage unpleasant emotions or simply want to feel better about yourself, counselling can help.
I offer Individual and Couples Therapy in-person and online. I'll support you with kindness, compassion, empathy and understanding. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, stress or something else and are looking for support from someone who will listen without judgement in a confidential and safe environment please get in touch. Are you a carer looking after a loved one with a life limiting illness? or generally just don’t feel good about yourself? Whether you are looking to cope with a specific mental health issue, better manage unpleasant emotions or simply want to feel better about yourself, counselling can help.
01252 959728 View 01252 959728
Photo of Elizabeth (Known As Jayne) Jayne Cookson, Counsellor in Fleet, England
Elizabeth (Known As Jayne) Jayne Cookson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fleet GU51
I have over 15 years of experience of counselling and psychotherapy working with people with a wide variety of issues, such as relationship issues, anxiety, stress, loss and depression. My aim is to help you achieve what you need to feel happier in your life feeling listened to and understood. Repeating old patterns and ways may lead us to feel unhappy with ourselves and our lives. I will help you work through things that may be keeping you stuck and find new ways to move forward, helping you to be more the way you want to be.
I have over 15 years of experience of counselling and psychotherapy working with people with a wide variety of issues, such as relationship issues, anxiety, stress, loss and depression. My aim is to help you achieve what you need to feel happier in your life feeling listened to and understood. Repeating old patterns and ways may lead us to feel unhappy with ourselves and our lives. I will help you work through things that may be keeping you stuck and find new ways to move forward, helping you to be more the way you want to be.
07492 885653 View 07492 885653
Photo of Debbie Humphries, Counsellor in Fleet, England
Debbie Humphries
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Fleet GU51
I can help you with issues that are difficult to talk about, including anxiety, depression, low self esteem, bereavement, trauma, sexual abuse, autism and ADHD. Some issues are more difficult to define. They can be more like: ‘Life feels really difficult’, ‘I wish I felt happier’, ‘I’ve been feeling really low’ or ‘I feel like I’m going mad’. I am genuinely interested to understand more about you and your unique experience. No problem is too trivial or too shocking. I will listen to what you want to achieve through counselling and support you to live your best life, whatever that may mean for you.
I can help you with issues that are difficult to talk about, including anxiety, depression, low self esteem, bereavement, trauma, sexual abuse, autism and ADHD. Some issues are more difficult to define. They can be more like: ‘Life feels really difficult’, ‘I wish I felt happier’, ‘I’ve been feeling really low’ or ‘I feel like I’m going mad’. I am genuinely interested to understand more about you and your unique experience. No problem is too trivial or too shocking. I will listen to what you want to achieve through counselling and support you to live your best life, whatever that may mean for you.
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Photo of Dr Helen Childs, Psychologist in Fleet, England
Dr Helen Childs
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Fleet GU51
Are you struggling with finding your direction in life? Perhaps you are feeling lost, anxious or low in mood? Do you find yourself pulled into unhealthy relationship patterns, or feel like you can't connect fully with others? These are common difficulties I work with. I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist registered with the HCPC. I use a compassionate, evidence-based approach to help individuals identify the changes they’d like to make and to learn new skills for dealing with difficult thoughts, feelings and behaviours. I work with adults and adolescents aged 16+
Are you struggling with finding your direction in life? Perhaps you are feeling lost, anxious or low in mood? Do you find yourself pulled into unhealthy relationship patterns, or feel like you can't connect fully with others? These are common difficulties I work with. I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist registered with the HCPC. I use a compassionate, evidence-based approach to help individuals identify the changes they’d like to make and to learn new skills for dealing with difficult thoughts, feelings and behaviours. I work with adults and adolescents aged 16+
07480 788527 View 07480 788527
Photo of TLC Counselling, Counsellor in Fleet, England
TLC Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Fleet GU51
I spent 15 years working as a Relate Counsellor, alongside this I have built up a successful Practice Practice working with couples, individuals, children and young people, supporting them in improving their emotional and mental well-being. I offer a bespoke ‘wrap-around’ approach setting activities between each session, which allows on-going personal growth and development. By supporting you to explore difficulties, my aim is to facilitate you to have a deeper awareness of your core triggers and understanding of your patterns of behaviours, leading to lasting change.
I spent 15 years working as a Relate Counsellor, alongside this I have built up a successful Practice Practice working with couples, individuals, children and young people, supporting them in improving their emotional and mental well-being. I offer a bespoke ‘wrap-around’ approach setting activities between each session, which allows on-going personal growth and development. By supporting you to explore difficulties, my aim is to facilitate you to have a deeper awareness of your core triggers and understanding of your patterns of behaviours, leading to lasting change.
01256 679807 View 01256 679807
Photo of Sue Ivey Counselling, Counsellor in Fleet, England
Sue Ivey Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Fleet GU51
Are you feeling troubled, distressed or even confused by relationship difficulties, life transitions, crises, helplessness, grief, isolation, anxiety, depression or loss of direction? Talking to a professional counsellor in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment can enable you to understand yourself better, make your situation more manageable and lead to lasting behavioural change. As a BACP accredited counsellor with 23 years experience of counselling adults with various difficulties, I understand how important it is to find the right counsellor to help you. For this reason I offer a free one hour initial session.
Are you feeling troubled, distressed or even confused by relationship difficulties, life transitions, crises, helplessness, grief, isolation, anxiety, depression or loss of direction? Talking to a professional counsellor in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment can enable you to understand yourself better, make your situation more manageable and lead to lasting behavioural change. As a BACP accredited counsellor with 23 years experience of counselling adults with various difficulties, I understand how important it is to find the right counsellor to help you. For this reason I offer a free one hour initial session.
07723 458110 View 07723 458110

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alice Liddell, Psychologist in Fleet, England
Alice Liddell
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petersfield GU31
I work primarily using Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, although I also draw from Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT).
I am a Doctor of Clinical Psychology, IFS Therapist (Level 2) and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) teacher with over 10 years experience in the NHS. I work with people struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, emotional dysregulation and interpersonal difficulties. I specialise in working with people who have attachment or relational trauma, sometimes subtle in nature or more overtly abusive. I help people to understand, cope with and heal from their difficulties, allowing them to live more enjoyable and fulfilling lives.
I work primarily using Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, although I also draw from Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT).
I am a Doctor of Clinical Psychology, IFS Therapist (Level 2) and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) teacher with over 10 years experience in the NHS. I work with people struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, emotional dysregulation and interpersonal difficulties. I specialise in working with people who have attachment or relational trauma, sometimes subtle in nature or more overtly abusive. I help people to understand, cope with and heal from their difficulties, allowing them to live more enjoyable and fulfilling lives.
01273 076757 View 01273 076757
Photo of The Psychology Company, Psychologist in Fleet, England
The Psychology Company
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petersfield GU31
We are a small team of highly trained and experienced Chartered Psychologists providing a range of evidence based therapies including CBT, Mindfulness based approaches, Compassion Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, DBT informed therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy.
We work with people with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, low self esteem, chronic health difficulties, eating disorders, emotional instability and self destructive coping patterns. In your initial consultation we will explore what brings you to therapy and make a plan for how we will work together. We offer evidenced based structured therapy to help you move forwards in your life. Most of is have doctorates in Clinical or Counselling Psychology and we have all undertaken many years of training and have a wealth of experience working in the NHS and the private sector.
We are a small team of highly trained and experienced Chartered Psychologists providing a range of evidence based therapies including CBT, Mindfulness based approaches, Compassion Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, DBT informed therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy.
We work with people with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, low self esteem, chronic health difficulties, eating disorders, emotional instability and self destructive coping patterns. In your initial consultation we will explore what brings you to therapy and make a plan for how we will work together. We offer evidenced based structured therapy to help you move forwards in your life. Most of is have doctorates in Clinical or Counselling Psychology and we have all undertaken many years of training and have a wealth of experience working in the NHS and the private sector.
01483 363058 View 01483 363058
Photo of Dr James Adamson, Psychologist in Fleet, England
Dr James Adamson
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Haslemere GU27
Do you find yourself struggling with overwhelming anxiety, feeling low, lost or lacking a sense of purpose? I understand how challenging these emotions can be, and I'm here to help you navigate through them. As a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 10 years of professional experience in both clinical and research settings, I have honed my expertise in evidence-based approaches to therapy. Although my training spans CBT, Systemic and Psychodynamic approaches to therapy, I have most expertise in CBT and third wave approaches such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and compassion focused therapy (CFT).
Do you find yourself struggling with overwhelming anxiety, feeling low, lost or lacking a sense of purpose? I understand how challenging these emotions can be, and I'm here to help you navigate through them. As a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 10 years of professional experience in both clinical and research settings, I have honed my expertise in evidence-based approaches to therapy. Although my training spans CBT, Systemic and Psychodynamic approaches to therapy, I have most expertise in CBT and third wave approaches such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and compassion focused therapy (CFT).
01489 357199 View 01489 357199
Photo of Carly Samson, Psychologist in Fleet, England
Carly Samson
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haslemere GU27
I have extensive experience and training in a number of evidence-based therapies including Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and EMDR.
I offer a safe, welcoming space to help you explore how you would like to live your life. I work with adults living with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, eating disorders, brain injury, interpersonal and relational difficulties, as well as psychosis. I am also passionate about supporting people through challenging life transitions for example becoming a new parent or starting retirement. I am an integrative clinical psychologist, with my practice drawing on a range of the latest evidence-based therapeutic approaches allowing therapy to be personalised and tailored to your individual needs.
I have extensive experience and training in a number of evidence-based therapies including Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and EMDR.
I offer a safe, welcoming space to help you explore how you would like to live your life. I work with adults living with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, eating disorders, brain injury, interpersonal and relational difficulties, as well as psychosis. I am also passionate about supporting people through challenging life transitions for example becoming a new parent or starting retirement. I am an integrative clinical psychologist, with my practice drawing on a range of the latest evidence-based therapeutic approaches allowing therapy to be personalised and tailored to your individual needs.
01730 778028 View 01730 778028
Photo of Josephine Jacobs, Counsellor in Fleet, England
Josephine Jacobs
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Farnham GU10
Would you like to talk about what goes on in your life and in your head? Want to be sure that you will not be judged and that you feel safe whilst exploring your thoughts, feelings and behaviours? Maybe you are wondering which event or events in your life have most affected how you feel. There could be relationships, past, present, and future which play on your mind. Do you want healthier relationships? Do you wonder if the way you feel gets in the way of you getting what you want out of life or living the life you want? You may have feelings you do not understand or believe you have lost yourself and no longer know how you feel.
Would you like to talk about what goes on in your life and in your head? Want to be sure that you will not be judged and that you feel safe whilst exploring your thoughts, feelings and behaviours? Maybe you are wondering which event or events in your life have most affected how you feel. There could be relationships, past, present, and future which play on your mind. Do you want healthier relationships? Do you wonder if the way you feel gets in the way of you getting what you want out of life or living the life you want? You may have feelings you do not understand or believe you have lost yourself and no longer know how you feel.
01252 986503 View 01252 986503
Photo of Colin Chapman, Psychotherapist in Fleet, England
Colin Chapman
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Alton GU34
There may be occasions in our lives when we struggle to make sense of what is happening to us and the world we experience. I provide an opportunity to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences within a relationship that is free of the fears we may hold about disclosing to people we know. I offer a relationship of trust, honesty and openness that allows you to explore your story, thoughts, hopes and fears, in a safe, supportive, confidential place, free of external influences and judgement, providing an opportunity for personal insight and change.
There may be occasions in our lives when we struggle to make sense of what is happening to us and the world we experience. I provide an opportunity to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences within a relationship that is free of the fears we may hold about disclosing to people we know. I offer a relationship of trust, honesty and openness that allows you to explore your story, thoughts, hopes and fears, in a safe, supportive, confidential place, free of external influences and judgement, providing an opportunity for personal insight and change.
0330 058 1998 View 0330 058 1998
Photo of Dianne Everitt, Psychologist in Fleet, England
Dianne Everitt
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haslemere GU27  (Online Only)
I’m a Clinical Psychologist, working with high achievers who struggle with high functioning anxiety, self-confidence and self-esteem, burnout, stress, and relationship difficulties. If on the surface you look like you have it all together, but the silent voice of self-doubt plagues you, then we will likely work well together. I like to work with the heart of a matter, rather than treat symptoms at a surface level. I work with both adolescents and adults, and have over 13 years experience in mental health. I have a fantastic team of Psychologists working with me, and we also specialise in ADHD, ASD and ADHD assessments.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist, working with high achievers who struggle with high functioning anxiety, self-confidence and self-esteem, burnout, stress, and relationship difficulties. If on the surface you look like you have it all together, but the silent voice of self-doubt plagues you, then we will likely work well together. I like to work with the heart of a matter, rather than treat symptoms at a surface level. I work with both adolescents and adults, and have over 13 years experience in mental health. I have a fantastic team of Psychologists working with me, and we also specialise in ADHD, ASD and ADHD assessments.
01252 947363 View 01252 947363
Photo of Penny Simmonite, Psychotherapist in Fleet, England
Penny Simmonite
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farnham GU9
You may be feeling life is just too much to manage right now, perhaps you've had a bereavement or loss, or maybe something from the past is impacting on how you are feeling. Asking for professional help can feel daunting, but once you've made that decision, it can bring relief and then finding the right person, who can hear your concerns and support you, is really important. I can offer a safe, confidential space and give you the time and space to explore what is going on for you, to help you gain awareness and insight into what's troubling you and help you reach your goals.
You may be feeling life is just too much to manage right now, perhaps you've had a bereavement or loss, or maybe something from the past is impacting on how you are feeling. Asking for professional help can feel daunting, but once you've made that decision, it can bring relief and then finding the right person, who can hear your concerns and support you, is really important. I can offer a safe, confidential space and give you the time and space to explore what is going on for you, to help you gain awareness and insight into what's troubling you and help you reach your goals.
01372 236068 View 01372 236068
Photo of Louise O'Connell Bacp Acred Psychotherapist, Psychotherapist in Fleet, England
Louise O'Connell Bacp Acred Psychotherapist
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Farnham GU9
Hello I am an BACP Accredited Counsellor & Psychotherapist Trained EMDR therapist Clinical Supervisor, and trained in Energy psychotherapy. I have over 14 years clinical experience within both Private Practice and the NHS.  My clients include adult individuals who wish to work on: trauma and relationship difficulties. depression, low mood, anxiety, stress, low self esteem, lack of confidence, bereavement, and other personal loss,   In addition, I also support and facilitate clients who wish build personal development, or create more fulfilment and happiness in their lives.
Hello I am an BACP Accredited Counsellor & Psychotherapist Trained EMDR therapist Clinical Supervisor, and trained in Energy psychotherapy. I have over 14 years clinical experience within both Private Practice and the NHS.  My clients include adult individuals who wish to work on: trauma and relationship difficulties. depression, low mood, anxiety, stress, low self esteem, lack of confidence, bereavement, and other personal loss,   In addition, I also support and facilitate clients who wish build personal development, or create more fulfilment and happiness in their lives.
01689 667427 View 01689 667427
Photo of Candice Collins, Psychotherapist in Fleet, England
Candice Collins
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Alton GU34
I specialise in working with couples and individuals, and regularly work with clients in areas including: communication, affairs and infidelity, blended families, bereavement (loss and grief), embedded trauma, depression and anxiety. In my practice, I endeavour to work with clients in an empathic, collaborative and non-judgemental way. My integrated approach uses systemic theory (including exploring your thought processes and present situation) and psychodynamic theory (historical exploration linking to unconscious thoughts and behaviour). I also apply aspects of emotionally-focused therapy (EFT); and trauma focused therapies.
I specialise in working with couples and individuals, and regularly work with clients in areas including: communication, affairs and infidelity, blended families, bereavement (loss and grief), embedded trauma, depression and anxiety. In my practice, I endeavour to work with clients in an empathic, collaborative and non-judgemental way. My integrated approach uses systemic theory (including exploring your thought processes and present situation) and psychodynamic theory (historical exploration linking to unconscious thoughts and behaviour). I also apply aspects of emotionally-focused therapy (EFT); and trauma focused therapies.
023 8202 8098 View 023 8202 8098
Photo of U R OK Counselling - Sharon Beer, Psychotherapist in Fleet, England
U R OK Counselling - Sharon Beer
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Haslemere GU27
Is life feeling really difficult? Are you going through a hard patch? Are you struggling to understand and deal with your feelings? What ever your reasons for considering counselling I am here to provide safe space to explore the feelings and experiences that are stopping you living your best life. I am a warm, open-hearted, empathic and accepting qualified counsellor psychotherapist with experience of helping clients with a wide range of issues. Together, we can explore why you feel like you do and find a way forward into a place where life feels more comfortable.
Is life feeling really difficult? Are you going through a hard patch? Are you struggling to understand and deal with your feelings? What ever your reasons for considering counselling I am here to provide safe space to explore the feelings and experiences that are stopping you living your best life. I am a warm, open-hearted, empathic and accepting qualified counsellor psychotherapist with experience of helping clients with a wide range of issues. Together, we can explore why you feel like you do and find a way forward into a place where life feels more comfortable.
01428 771396 View 01428 771396

See more therapy options for Fleet

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.