Compassion Focused Therapists in 35223

Photo of Taylor Gibson, Counselor in 35223, AL
Taylor Gibson
Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
There are a number of things that can create feelings of hopelessness, overwhelm, anxiety and stress. Changes and transition in our lives, our perceptions of self, and challenges within our relationships may inspire a desire for further insight and understanding of what we find important as well as how we might like to grow. Through counseling, you may begin exploring stuck points and areas of growth, supporting you in finding relief from emotional pain and in cultivating self-compassion - increasing your ability to cope with challenging situations and circumstances as you experience them.
There are a number of things that can create feelings of hopelessness, overwhelm, anxiety and stress. Changes and transition in our lives, our perceptions of self, and challenges within our relationships may inspire a desire for further insight and understanding of what we find important as well as how we might like to grow. Through counseling, you may begin exploring stuck points and areas of growth, supporting you in finding relief from emotional pain and in cultivating self-compassion - increasing your ability to cope with challenging situations and circumstances as you experience them.
(205) 857-9815 View (205) 857-9815
Photo of Jason Winningham, Licensed Professional Counselor in 35223, AL
Jason Winningham
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Life can be challenging. Everyone needs someone who will listen to them and help manage their day to day issues or long term problems. The negative stigma of "mental health" has dissipated in recent years and more and more people are taking advantage of getting their mental and emotional needs met through therapy. Take the first step and reach out for help. I want to help you.
Life can be challenging. Everyone needs someone who will listen to them and help manage their day to day issues or long term problems. The negative stigma of "mental health" has dissipated in recent years and more and more people are taking advantage of getting their mental and emotional needs met through therapy. Take the first step and reach out for help. I want to help you.
(205) 927-2149 View (205) 927-2149
Photo of Kali M Cox, Licensed Professional Counselor in 35223, AL
Kali M Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
Do you get stuck in your thinking? Do you sometimes push people away when really all you want to do is connect with them better? What about your habits- are they helping? Or are they hurting? Don't you think that there might be other ways?
Do you get stuck in your thinking? Do you sometimes push people away when really all you want to do is connect with them better? What about your habits- are they helping? Or are they hurting? Don't you think that there might be other ways?
(205) 526-4102 View (205) 526-4102
Photo of Katelyn Pickett, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 35223, AL
Katelyn Pickett
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
Taking the first step towards therapy can be challenging, but it is a courageous and fulfilling decision! As someone who has experienced therapy first-hand, I can vouch for its benefits! Life can be tough, whether it’s navigating a loss, breaking free from negative family patterns, or just needing a safe space to process your thoughts. Therapy provides that space. The weight of these experiences can leave us feeling isolated, lost, and overwhelmed, but you don't have to face them alone. Whether you're an individual, couple, or family, know that I'm here to support you through these tough times.
Taking the first step towards therapy can be challenging, but it is a courageous and fulfilling decision! As someone who has experienced therapy first-hand, I can vouch for its benefits! Life can be tough, whether it’s navigating a loss, breaking free from negative family patterns, or just needing a safe space to process your thoughts. Therapy provides that space. The weight of these experiences can leave us feeling isolated, lost, and overwhelmed, but you don't have to face them alone. Whether you're an individual, couple, or family, know that I'm here to support you through these tough times.
(205) 528-6258 View (205) 528-6258
Photo of Savannah Donahoe, Licensed Professional Counselor in 35223, AL
Savannah Donahoe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
Savannah Donahoe is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a background in trauma, crisis response, LGBTQIA+ issues, gender-affirming care, PTSD, depression and anxiety, self-esteem, gender identity-related issues, sexual identity,-related issues, grief, and loss. Savannah is passionate about providing support to folks of all ages through the unique challenges that they face. She values the importance of diversity, self-identity, and multicultural competency. Savannah completed her Master's degree in Counseling at the University of Montevallo. She has experience in trauma and crisis response, as well as gender-affirming care.
Savannah Donahoe is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a background in trauma, crisis response, LGBTQIA+ issues, gender-affirming care, PTSD, depression and anxiety, self-esteem, gender identity-related issues, sexual identity,-related issues, grief, and loss. Savannah is passionate about providing support to folks of all ages through the unique challenges that they face. She values the importance of diversity, self-identity, and multicultural competency. Savannah completed her Master's degree in Counseling at the University of Montevallo. She has experience in trauma and crisis response, as well as gender-affirming care.
(205) 839-5404 View (205) 839-5404
Photo of Chuck Duer, Licensed Professional Counselor in 35223, AL
Chuck Duer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
I can be helpful to folks with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and grief experiences, addiction and co-dependency issues, parenting difficulties, sexual concerns, and career challenges. I work to establish a place where people can disclose and pursue their most personal challenges openly and truthfully. I understand the complex nature of these experiences and help individuals to improve their experiences in multiple areas of life. I have worked with persons who come from a wide expanse of socioeconomic status, sexual orientations, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds.
I can be helpful to folks with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and grief experiences, addiction and co-dependency issues, parenting difficulties, sexual concerns, and career challenges. I work to establish a place where people can disclose and pursue their most personal challenges openly and truthfully. I understand the complex nature of these experiences and help individuals to improve their experiences in multiple areas of life. I have worked with persons who come from a wide expanse of socioeconomic status, sexual orientations, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds.
(659) 222-5971 View (659) 222-5971
Photo of Catherine Clayton Prince, Psychologist in 35223, AL
Catherine Clayton Prince
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Do you find it difficult to be kind and compassionate toward yourself? Are you mired in self-criticism or paralyzed by self doubt? Have you felt overwhelmed by life? Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others? The Persian poet Rumi very wisely stated that the wound is the very place where the light enters. Often it is only through the vulnerability produced by our struggles that we increase our awareness, move toward growth, and are open to making changes. We all experience times that we find ourselves struggling to heal from wounds inflicted by what we encounter as we journey down the difficult road of life.
Do you find it difficult to be kind and compassionate toward yourself? Are you mired in self-criticism or paralyzed by self doubt? Have you felt overwhelmed by life? Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others? The Persian poet Rumi very wisely stated that the wound is the very place where the light enters. Often it is only through the vulnerability produced by our struggles that we increase our awareness, move toward growth, and are open to making changes. We all experience times that we find ourselves struggling to heal from wounds inflicted by what we encounter as we journey down the difficult road of life.
(205) 270-5926 View (205) 270-5926
Tom McLure Red Mountain Counseling Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAEd, MA
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
Waitlist for new clients
Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Addictions, Trauma. Counseling/Therapy is investment in quality of life. People seek help when frustrated, confused, overwhelmed. Does addiction (substance/behavior) control your life? Does a challenging relationship frustrate you? Are you tired of trying to change your partner? or trying to change yourself for your partner? Have you experienced painful loss? Do you frequently feel tense and uneasy? Does the life you live differ from the life you want?
Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Addictions, Trauma. Counseling/Therapy is investment in quality of life. People seek help when frustrated, confused, overwhelmed. Does addiction (substance/behavior) control your life? Does a challenging relationship frustrate you? Are you tired of trying to change your partner? or trying to change yourself for your partner? Have you experienced painful loss? Do you frequently feel tense and uneasy? Does the life you live differ from the life you want?
(205) 618-8840 View (205) 618-8840
Photo of Delia Lewis Counseling, Counselor in 35223, AL
Delia Lewis Counseling
Counselor, MA, ALC
Verified Verified
I work with individual clients (in-person or via telehealth) to support the maintenance of mental health and life balance. Some common issues we might approach are anxiety, depression, life transitions, difficulty adjusting to changes, self-esteem, and stress. I counsel adults of various ages and have extensive experience with young adults/college age individuals. I also welcome: LGBTQIA+ clients, women dealing with reproductive health issues, and individuals focusing on the relationship between their physical and mental health.
I work with individual clients (in-person or via telehealth) to support the maintenance of mental health and life balance. Some common issues we might approach are anxiety, depression, life transitions, difficulty adjusting to changes, self-esteem, and stress. I counsel adults of various ages and have extensive experience with young adults/college age individuals. I also welcome: LGBTQIA+ clients, women dealing with reproductive health issues, and individuals focusing on the relationship between their physical and mental health.
(205) 883-9746 View (205) 883-9746
Photo of Jennifer Wilson, Counselor in 35223, AL
Jennifer Wilson
Counselor, EdS, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mental health is an important component of living a fulfilled life. As people grow, their mental health needs change based on their experiences. I believe in the power of informing and working to address those needs through therapy.
Mental health is an important component of living a fulfilled life. As people grow, their mental health needs change based on their experiences. I believe in the power of informing and working to address those needs through therapy.
(205) 839-8768 View (205) 839-8768
Photo of Brandy Smith, Psychologist in 35223, AL
Brandy Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223  (Online Only)
Brandy Smith is a Licensed Psychologist in the state of Alabama with 13+ years post-doctoral experience. She was trained as a generalist and earned her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from University of Memphis. Brandy works with adults and approaches clinical work collaboratively: meeting clients where they are and working together to reach their goals. She is well-trained to address diversity broadly defined, especially with concerns related to gender, sexual orientation, and race.
Brandy Smith is a Licensed Psychologist in the state of Alabama with 13+ years post-doctoral experience. She was trained as a generalist and earned her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from University of Memphis. Brandy works with adults and approaches clinical work collaboratively: meeting clients where they are and working together to reach their goals. She is well-trained to address diversity broadly defined, especially with concerns related to gender, sexual orientation, and race.
(205) 974-0619 View (205) 974-0619
Photo of Morgan Payne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 35223, AL
Morgan Payne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
As a licensed therapist with nearly a decade of experience, I feel truly honored to work with children, adolescents, and young adults during times of struggle, change, and growth. I strive to create a safe space for each client to grow, heal, and reach their therapeutic goals. I have experience working with various challenges including anxiety, depression, social and behavioral issues, and neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD. I utilize a relational, strengths-based approach when collaborating with clients, while incorporating evidenced based practices and a touch of fun.
As a licensed therapist with nearly a decade of experience, I feel truly honored to work with children, adolescents, and young adults during times of struggle, change, and growth. I strive to create a safe space for each client to grow, heal, and reach their therapeutic goals. I have experience working with various challenges including anxiety, depression, social and behavioral issues, and neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD. I utilize a relational, strengths-based approach when collaborating with clients, while incorporating evidenced based practices and a touch of fun.
(205) 927-8391 View (205) 927-8391
Photo of The Healing Space, LLC, LPC Intern in 35223, AL
The Healing Space, LLC
LPC Intern, PhD, ALC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223  (Online Only)
You find yourself stuck in the same negative cycles. You trust the wrong people and get into relationships that only leave you feeling manipulated, abused, and unsafe. They’ve taken away your power, your voice, and the weight of trauma has left you questioning your worth. You’ve tried reaching out to loved ones, connecting to your faith, and other means to address your concerns, but all those choices have failed. Your needs are not met, and you desperately desire support to make consistent, positive changes to succeed mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.
You find yourself stuck in the same negative cycles. You trust the wrong people and get into relationships that only leave you feeling manipulated, abused, and unsafe. They’ve taken away your power, your voice, and the weight of trauma has left you questioning your worth. You’ve tried reaching out to loved ones, connecting to your faith, and other means to address your concerns, but all those choices have failed. Your needs are not met, and you desperately desire support to make consistent, positive changes to succeed mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.
(205) 551-9162 View (205) 551-9162
Photo of Ashley Loeb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 35223, AL
Ashley Loeb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
I enjoy working with clients to help identify their strengths, overcome obstacles and build their self-esteem. I work with clients to normalize their feelings and increase their self-awareness. I am passionate about removing the stigma from therapy and mental health treatment. I try to promote mindfulness when dealing with strong emotions and work to offer clients a safe and nonjudgmental place to share their feelings.
I enjoy working with clients to help identify their strengths, overcome obstacles and build their self-esteem. I work with clients to normalize their feelings and increase their self-awareness. I am passionate about removing the stigma from therapy and mental health treatment. I try to promote mindfulness when dealing with strong emotions and work to offer clients a safe and nonjudgmental place to share their feelings.
(205) 538-3099 View (205) 538-3099
Photo of Barbara Bernstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in 35223, AL
Barbara Bernstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
Waitlist for new clients
Though I have specific training in relationship issues (such as marriage, pre-marriage, same-sex unions, parenting, infidelity, and in-law issues), I also work a great deal with individuals. I offer specific forgiveness training that has proven extremely helpful in healing grievances and resentments; and am trained in the use of EMDR. When motivated, there is no limit to the potential for improved relationships, personal fulfillment, and peace. In work with couples, I see great improvement when there is deep motivation. And it is part of my job to foster, and nurture that motivation in each partner.
Though I have specific training in relationship issues (such as marriage, pre-marriage, same-sex unions, parenting, infidelity, and in-law issues), I also work a great deal with individuals. I offer specific forgiveness training that has proven extremely helpful in healing grievances and resentments; and am trained in the use of EMDR. When motivated, there is no limit to the potential for improved relationships, personal fulfillment, and peace. In work with couples, I see great improvement when there is deep motivation. And it is part of my job to foster, and nurture that motivation in each partner.
(205) 322-1818 View (205) 322-1818
Photo of Lacey Amos, Licensed Professional Counselor in 35223, AL
Lacey Amos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mountain Brook, AL 35223  (Online Only)
If you desire positive change, counseling is the right place! Counseling can help you regain control and begin the healing process. I enjoy offering a variety of professional counseling services and because every situation is unique, I customize interventions accordingly. Together we will work to meet your goals and increase your overall health and wellness. Since 2006 I have helped clients work through various types of transitions and issues. I began offering virtual counseling services in 2020 and have enjoyed the benefits of telehealth for me and my clients ever since! Visit laceyamoscounseling.com for more information.
If you desire positive change, counseling is the right place! Counseling can help you regain control and begin the healing process. I enjoy offering a variety of professional counseling services and because every situation is unique, I customize interventions accordingly. Together we will work to meet your goals and increase your overall health and wellness. Since 2006 I have helped clients work through various types of transitions and issues. I began offering virtual counseling services in 2020 and have enjoyed the benefits of telehealth for me and my clients ever since! Visit laceyamoscounseling.com for more information.
(205) 289-3497 View (205) 289-3497
Photo of Mikala Pickens, Counselor in 35223, AL
Mikala Pickens
Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I have 9 years of experience working with adults, teens, and college students with a variety of mental health needs and life goals. My main goal is to truly see you as you are, free of judgment, and work with you to determine achievable goals that will lead to a better quality of life. I take into account all experiences and identities that you bring to the table and how they have affected you. My main function as a therapist is to provide you with a safe place to process these events and experiences and also give you some helpful skills and techniques to use throughout life’s journey.
I have 9 years of experience working with adults, teens, and college students with a variety of mental health needs and life goals. My main goal is to truly see you as you are, free of judgment, and work with you to determine achievable goals that will lead to a better quality of life. I take into account all experiences and identities that you bring to the table and how they have affected you. My main function as a therapist is to provide you with a safe place to process these events and experiences and also give you some helpful skills and techniques to use throughout life’s journey.
(205) 202-0549 View (205) 202-0549
Photo of Frannie Hartley Horn, Counselor in 35223, AL
Frannie Hartley Horn
Counselor, MA, ALC, JD, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
As humans, we navigate what can feel like an unsteady and confusing world. Life can be overwhelming. We may find ourselves in places where we need to make hard choices and manage difficult situations. As a counselor, my passion is for walking with clients through challenging times by using an integrated, person-centered therapeutic approach. Our process will be based on what works best for you, using techniques that include narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused brief therapy. I pride myself on building strong relationships based on trust as we progress through the growth and recovery process.
As humans, we navigate what can feel like an unsteady and confusing world. Life can be overwhelming. We may find ourselves in places where we need to make hard choices and manage difficult situations. As a counselor, my passion is for walking with clients through challenging times by using an integrated, person-centered therapeutic approach. Our process will be based on what works best for you, using techniques that include narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused brief therapy. I pride myself on building strong relationships based on trust as we progress through the growth and recovery process.
(205) 270-5302 View (205) 270-5302
Photo of Amaris Roye, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 35223, AL
Amaris Roye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
I believe that each of us are resilient humans that seek ways to survive and manage difficult situations/experiences. Whether you have an eating disorder, body image distress, symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, or are trying to navigate stressful circumstances in your life, I believe that there is hope for a fuller life.
I believe that each of us are resilient humans that seek ways to survive and manage difficult situations/experiences. Whether you have an eating disorder, body image distress, symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, or are trying to navigate stressful circumstances in your life, I believe that there is hope for a fuller life.
(659) 200-6019 View (659) 200-6019
Photo of Jordan Vann (Integrative Health Services, LLC), Licensed Professional Counselor in 35223, AL
Jordan Vann (Integrative Health Services, LLC)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
*WE ARE TAKING NEW CLIENTS!* I address a range of mental health issues, including addiction, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and more. Whether you are going through a life transition or have a history of mental health issues, I am glad that you have taken this positive step towards change. I welcome you to walk with me on your journey to wellness, as together, we work to address any barriers that prevent you from accessing your ideal self or life. If you are feeling lost and are ready to find your voice, this can be a safe place to develop and utilize the strengths that already exist within you.
*WE ARE TAKING NEW CLIENTS!* I address a range of mental health issues, including addiction, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and more. Whether you are going through a life transition or have a history of mental health issues, I am glad that you have taken this positive step towards change. I welcome you to walk with me on your journey to wellness, as together, we work to address any barriers that prevent you from accessing your ideal self or life. If you are feeling lost and are ready to find your voice, this can be a safe place to develop and utilize the strengths that already exist within you.
(659) 200-7184 View (659) 200-7184
Compassion Focused Therapists

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-behavioral 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.