Compassion Focused Therapists in Gilbert, AZ

Photo of Renee Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Renee Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is compassion focused, using mindfulness, positive psychology, neurobiology and trauma informed therapies.
Maybe the stable ground of your life has suddenly fallen apart...the world you've relied on and found comfort in is now unpredictable, scary, too big to handle, and you don't know which way to turn. Or maybe life has felt this way for quite some time - you're struggling in your daily affairs, not really comfortable in your relationships, often seeking escape from big emotions and that incessant inner critic, and wondering why you never received "life's little instruction book" like everyone else around you. Whatever your reason for being here, now, the bottom line is...you're hurting, life is hard and you need a solution.
My therapeutic approach is compassion focused, using mindfulness, positive psychology, neurobiology and trauma informed therapies.
Maybe the stable ground of your life has suddenly fallen apart...the world you've relied on and found comfort in is now unpredictable, scary, too big to handle, and you don't know which way to turn. Or maybe life has felt this way for quite some time - you're struggling in your daily affairs, not really comfortable in your relationships, often seeking escape from big emotions and that incessant inner critic, and wondering why you never received "life's little instruction book" like everyone else around you. Whatever your reason for being here, now, the bottom line is...you're hurting, life is hard and you need a solution.
(480) 684-4329 View (480) 684-4329
Photo of Heather L Berger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Heather L Berger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85295
Accepting Clients -Hi there! Do you need help but can't or don't know how to ask for it? Do you feel like you are drowning, struggling, and unmotivated? Do you not recognize yourself anymore? Do you miss the person you used to be? If you're here and reading this, you know that it's ok to need help. But, chances are you are usually the one to do everything for everyone else. You may even be reading this now in hopes to find help for a loved one. Does it seem like help doesn't exist or at least not for you or you're loved one? I am here to help, and have been helping people find their way for over two decades.
Accepting Clients -Hi there! Do you need help but can't or don't know how to ask for it? Do you feel like you are drowning, struggling, and unmotivated? Do you not recognize yourself anymore? Do you miss the person you used to be? If you're here and reading this, you know that it's ok to need help. But, chances are you are usually the one to do everything for everyone else. You may even be reading this now in hopes to find help for a loved one. Does it seem like help doesn't exist or at least not for you or you're loved one? I am here to help, and have been helping people find their way for over two decades.
(480) 530-8395 View (480) 530-8395
Photo of Lauren Reed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Lauren Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Healing is messy, and it’s also beautiful! You may feel stuck in a cycle that’s painful and no longer serves you, or you have a desire to look further inward. No matter the reason that brought you, I am glad you are here. It is 100% okay to ask for help, no matter what people have told you. Challenges are inevitable in life and are often a cue to action. When challenges go unresolved or unaddressed, they may get in the way of how you feel about yourself. The good news is there are many things you can learn and unlearn about yourself and the world you live in. I will support you through that learning and healing process.
Healing is messy, and it’s also beautiful! You may feel stuck in a cycle that’s painful and no longer serves you, or you have a desire to look further inward. No matter the reason that brought you, I am glad you are here. It is 100% okay to ask for help, no matter what people have told you. Challenges are inevitable in life and are often a cue to action. When challenges go unresolved or unaddressed, they may get in the way of how you feel about yourself. The good news is there are many things you can learn and unlearn about yourself and the world you live in. I will support you through that learning and healing process.
(480) 906-3806 View (480) 906-3806
Photo of Heather Fernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Heather Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Hello, my name is Heather and I have been a practicing Marriage and Family Therapist since 2013. I have experience working closely with adolescents, adults, individuals, couples, and families. A few of the things I assist in are: anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, stress management, improved communication within families and couples, blended families, co-parenting, healthy relationships to include those with domestic violence history, self-esteem and assertiveness building, trauma, and drug/alcohol addiction history.
Hello, my name is Heather and I have been a practicing Marriage and Family Therapist since 2013. I have experience working closely with adolescents, adults, individuals, couples, and families. A few of the things I assist in are: anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, stress management, improved communication within families and couples, blended families, co-parenting, healthy relationships to include those with domestic violence history, self-esteem and assertiveness building, trauma, and drug/alcohol addiction history.
(602) 536-8261 View (602) 536-8261
Photo of Maryn Layton, Pre-Licensed Professional in Gilbert, AZ
Maryn Layton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAS-MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
We used to be close, but everything’s turned into a mess of arguments and awkward silence. Our conversations have become this minefield of the unspoken, and the love we had has gotten lost in translation. It feels like all those talks and plans we had for our family are slipping through our fingers. I’m trying so hard and I can’t seem to fix it. It's not just fights – it's like we're stuck in a cycle, and it’s not getting better.
We used to be close, but everything’s turned into a mess of arguments and awkward silence. Our conversations have become this minefield of the unspoken, and the love we had has gotten lost in translation. It feels like all those talks and plans we had for our family are slipping through our fingers. I’m trying so hard and I can’t seem to fix it. It's not just fights – it's like we're stuck in a cycle, and it’s not getting better.
(928) 264-8714 View (928) 264-8714
Photo of Katina M Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Katina M Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296  (Online Only)
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety and those navigating their fertility journey, including infertility, prenatal and postpartum experiences, as well as healing from trauma and PTSD. These journeys can often be emotionally messy and complex, with their own unique moments of joy and grief. Our work together will focus on understanding where you currently are in your journey, where you are headed, and the bumps that happen along the way.
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety and those navigating their fertility journey, including infertility, prenatal and postpartum experiences, as well as healing from trauma and PTSD. These journeys can often be emotionally messy and complex, with their own unique moments of joy and grief. Our work together will focus on understanding where you currently are in your journey, where you are headed, and the bumps that happen along the way.
(480) 376-7638 View (480) 376-7638
Photo of Sherri S Bair, Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Sherri S Bair
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85295
Currently accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Associate Counselor who has education and experience in family life. Life transitions are often a place where it is easy to become stuck. I love the word “choose” because we have the ability to make more choices than it sometimes appears. Do you need help seeing the choices you can make to become unstuck, or to strengthen yourself and/or your relationships?
Currently accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Associate Counselor who has education and experience in family life. Life transitions are often a place where it is easy to become stuck. I love the word “choose” because we have the ability to make more choices than it sometimes appears. Do you need help seeing the choices you can make to become unstuck, or to strengthen yourself and/or your relationships?
(480) 923-5833 View (480) 923-5833
Photo of Hannah Tyler, Pre-Licensed Professional in Gilbert, AZ
Hannah Tyler
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Hello! My name is Hannah and I am currently a masters level intern earning my degree in social work at Grand Canyon University. I have a strong passion to help individuals find their inner strength in the midst of hardship and in the exciting moments of life. We all have something to bring to the table, and I want to help and encourage you to find it.
Hello! My name is Hannah and I am currently a masters level intern earning my degree in social work at Grand Canyon University. I have a strong passion to help individuals find their inner strength in the midst of hardship and in the exciting moments of life. We all have something to bring to the table, and I want to help and encourage you to find it.
(928) 264-9385 x736 View (928) 264-9385 x736
Photo of Celeste Benesch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Celeste Benesch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Celeste is a state licensed therapist with a master's degree in clinical mental health. She takes an integrated approach to counseling by utilizing the client's strengths to foster growth and move into a place of thriving. Celeste has advanced training in DBT, which helps develop emotional regulation, enhance relationships, and learn skills to tolerate distress. When working with couples, Celeste implements Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy to address interpersonal issues by changing negative patterns and developing secure bonds. Celeste's training in EMDR helps clients heal from traumatic events more effectively.
Celeste is a state licensed therapist with a master's degree in clinical mental health. She takes an integrated approach to counseling by utilizing the client's strengths to foster growth and move into a place of thriving. Celeste has advanced training in DBT, which helps develop emotional regulation, enhance relationships, and learn skills to tolerate distress. When working with couples, Celeste implements Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy to address interpersonal issues by changing negative patterns and developing secure bonds. Celeste's training in EMDR helps clients heal from traumatic events more effectively.
(480) 962-4357 View (480) 962-4357
Photo of Candice Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Candice Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85298
Hi, my name is Candice Smith and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor serving individuals in East Valley including Gilbert, Chandler, and Queen Creek. I provide a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach to understanding who you are and what you would like to achieve. I believe the most important aspect of therapy is the trust, respect, and alliance that is created between client and therapist. While pain, frustration, and sadness often bring people to counseling, I know that transformation happens when you take action. I look forward to helping you on your personal journey!
Hi, my name is Candice Smith and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor serving individuals in East Valley including Gilbert, Chandler, and Queen Creek. I provide a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach to understanding who you are and what you would like to achieve. I believe the most important aspect of therapy is the trust, respect, and alliance that is created between client and therapist. While pain, frustration, and sadness often bring people to counseling, I know that transformation happens when you take action. I look forward to helping you on your personal journey!
(480) 605-1417 View (480) 605-1417
Photo of Emily Burnham, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Gilbert, AZ
Emily Burnham
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85297
Grounded in authentic connection, I prioritize a warm and empathetic therapeutic relationship. You have inherent worth and value, no matter what struggles you are facing. You have the power and ability to overcome personal and relational challenges, but sometimes we need additional support. Together, we can explore the areas where you feel stuck, isolated, or hopeless.
Grounded in authentic connection, I prioritize a warm and empathetic therapeutic relationship. You have inherent worth and value, no matter what struggles you are facing. You have the power and ability to overcome personal and relational challenges, but sometimes we need additional support. Together, we can explore the areas where you feel stuck, isolated, or hopeless.
(520) 521-0024 View (520) 521-0024
Photo of Christine M Colburn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Christine M Colburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85233
We all have our own story that needs to be told and we need to "feel" heard without judgment. Children just as adults, want to tell their story and feel & know someone is really listening. At BHCS we pride ourselves on meeting the client where they are while providing a safe and comfortable place to begin healing. We all have our rough patches in life and as Murphy's Law would have it, "life" did not come with an instruction book on how to navigate through the rough storms. Children, the same, just less experience and less knowledge; children do not act out for no reason; they just do not know how to express themselves yet.
We all have our own story that needs to be told and we need to "feel" heard without judgment. Children just as adults, want to tell their story and feel & know someone is really listening. At BHCS we pride ourselves on meeting the client where they are while providing a safe and comfortable place to begin healing. We all have our rough patches in life and as Murphy's Law would have it, "life" did not come with an instruction book on how to navigate through the rough storms. Children, the same, just less experience and less knowledge; children do not act out for no reason; they just do not know how to express themselves yet.
(480) 422-3408 View (480) 422-3408
Photo of Rachelle Friedman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Rachelle Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85234  (Online Only)
Do you think about times in the past when you wish that you felt different, or had done something differently? It can be hard to not get stuck in the "should" of everything. When you are in this place it can be hard to pick yourself up when you trip or fall. I specialize in working with people who are struggling with chronic pain/illness, anxiety, neurodivergence, and trauma. I want to help you feel grounded and present in your life. I want you to know that by seeing you authentically and individualizing therapeutic treatment, and treating you as a whole person, I know that I can help you heal.
Do you think about times in the past when you wish that you felt different, or had done something differently? It can be hard to not get stuck in the "should" of everything. When you are in this place it can be hard to pick yourself up when you trip or fall. I specialize in working with people who are struggling with chronic pain/illness, anxiety, neurodivergence, and trauma. I want to help you feel grounded and present in your life. I want you to know that by seeing you authentically and individualizing therapeutic treatment, and treating you as a whole person, I know that I can help you heal.
(480) 372-9890 View (480) 372-9890
Photo of Emily Walton, Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Emily Walton
Counselor, MA, MEd, LAC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85298
Are life's pressures overwhelming? Are you ready to find a way through anxiety, disordered eating, and/or trauma? Let's reimagine your story together, in a space that brings warmth and understanding. A place where your personal growth is valued, and where your struggles are met with empathy. I understand that taking the first step can be intimidating, but I want you to know that this work deeply matters to me and I am always honored to be a part of your path forward.
Are life's pressures overwhelming? Are you ready to find a way through anxiety, disordered eating, and/or trauma? Let's reimagine your story together, in a space that brings warmth and understanding. A place where your personal growth is valued, and where your struggles are met with empathy. I understand that taking the first step can be intimidating, but I want you to know that this work deeply matters to me and I am always honored to be a part of your path forward.
(480) 462-0974 View (480) 462-0974
Photo of Clara Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Clara Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85298
I believe my life purpose is to “bring light” to those in dark spaces. I know what it is like to be on the edge- in a dark space- and how difficult it may feel to “climb out of the cave”. I genuinely believe every person can lead a life worth living regardless of their circumstances and the pain they have experienced. As a therapist, it is my hope & desire to bring light to all my clients and guide them to a place where they find their own light. I have had the pleasure of working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, self-esteem/self-worth issues and destructive behaviors such as self-harm.
I believe my life purpose is to “bring light” to those in dark spaces. I know what it is like to be on the edge- in a dark space- and how difficult it may feel to “climb out of the cave”. I genuinely believe every person can lead a life worth living regardless of their circumstances and the pain they have experienced. As a therapist, it is my hope & desire to bring light to all my clients and guide them to a place where they find their own light. I have had the pleasure of working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, self-esteem/self-worth issues and destructive behaviors such as self-harm.
(520) 210-5761 View (520) 210-5761
Photo of Tiffany Williams-Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Tiffany Williams-Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Dr. Williams-Jones received her Masters degree in Social Work, and her Doctorate in Educational Psychology. Her practice is based on the belief that patients' needs are of the utmost importance. Dr. Williams-Jones offers comprehensive evaluation and therapy services for children, teens, adults and families. She works with couples and families to help restore and/or create relationships after a psychological crisis. Dr. Williams-Jones treats children who struggle with social emotional, and learning difficulties. She also works with individuals who are experiencing life changes and need guidance.
Dr. Williams-Jones received her Masters degree in Social Work, and her Doctorate in Educational Psychology. Her practice is based on the belief that patients' needs are of the utmost importance. Dr. Williams-Jones offers comprehensive evaluation and therapy services for children, teens, adults and families. She works with couples and families to help restore and/or create relationships after a psychological crisis. Dr. Williams-Jones treats children who struggle with social emotional, and learning difficulties. She also works with individuals who are experiencing life changes and need guidance.
(480) 605-1491 View (480) 605-1491
Photo of Bianca Wells, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Bianca Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Accepting New Clients! I am a Licensed Master's Social Worker with extensive experience working with ages 17+. In therapy, I strive to provide a safe, supportive environment for clients in order to feel comfortable working together to achieve their goals. I believe everyone is deserving of a happier life with lasting change.
Accepting New Clients! I am a Licensed Master's Social Worker with extensive experience working with ages 17+. In therapy, I strive to provide a safe, supportive environment for clients in order to feel comfortable working together to achieve their goals. I believe everyone is deserving of a happier life with lasting change.
(480) 780-2188 View (480) 780-2188
Photo of Daniel Parke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Daniel Parke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Can you relate to the following questions? How do I manage anxiety and depression so that the present moment is not so overwhelming? How can I change the negative view of myself and unwanted behaviors which seem to be driven by the past? How can my partner and I communicate our needs and concerns without triggering defensiveness in each other and keep from slipping into the same negative relationship patterns?
Can you relate to the following questions? How do I manage anxiety and depression so that the present moment is not so overwhelming? How can I change the negative view of myself and unwanted behaviors which seem to be driven by the past? How can my partner and I communicate our needs and concerns without triggering defensiveness in each other and keep from slipping into the same negative relationship patterns?
(480) 568-6354 View (480) 568-6354
Photo of Marlys L Reardon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Marlys L Reardon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Clients! Let's work together to discover the truest version of yourself! The decision to seek therapy is a courageous, personal one that honors your life experiences and journey. My objective when working with clients is to provide a safe, comfortable space where they can share freely and without judgement. Your therapeutic journey will be aimed at addressing the behaviors that block you, preventing you from living your most authentic, joyful life. My approach is holistic; centering on assessing emotional and mental health concerns, as well as physical health, familial interactions, community, and spiritual needs.
Accepting NEW Clients! Let's work together to discover the truest version of yourself! The decision to seek therapy is a courageous, personal one that honors your life experiences and journey. My objective when working with clients is to provide a safe, comfortable space where they can share freely and without judgement. Your therapeutic journey will be aimed at addressing the behaviors that block you, preventing you from living your most authentic, joyful life. My approach is holistic; centering on assessing emotional and mental health concerns, as well as physical health, familial interactions, community, and spiritual needs.
(480) 418-1364 View (480) 418-1364
Photo of Steffany Hardison in Gilbert, AZ
Steffany Hardison
HP, LMT
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85297  (Online Only)
♡ YOU BELONG HERE ♡ ..........................................................................……...…… It takes courage to ask for help, especially when you’re hurting. Maybe it feels like no one understands. Maybe it feels like no one cares. Maybe it feels like life is too much. Maybe you just need someone to listen, or guide, with love. Here. We. Are.
♡ YOU BELONG HERE ♡ ..........................................................................……...…… It takes courage to ask for help, especially when you’re hurting. Maybe it feels like no one understands. Maybe it feels like no one cares. Maybe it feels like life is too much. Maybe you just need someone to listen, or guide, with love. Here. We. Are.
(480) 690-1355 View (480) 690-1355
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.