Compassion Focused Therapists in Mesa, AZ

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Not accepting new clients
Photo of Renee Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mesa, AZ
Renee Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified
Verified
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
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Mesa, AZ 85201
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Aurora M Shinn in Mesa, AZ
Aurora M Shinn
RN, CHT
Verified
Verified
I worked as a Registered Nurse in Hospice, case managing clients faced with a terminal illness. I was part of a team that assessed and anticipated peoples end of life care needs. We used a holistic approach with the knowledge that when you deal with a person's physical, mental and emotional needs as a whole, it is more likely to have a much more positive outcome in assisting people to cope with the loss in a way that promotes healing. Today, I put these life experiences and skills in another direction as a Hypnotherapist.
(480) 725-1529
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Mesa, AZ 85202
& Online
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Lisa Plumb, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mesa, AZ
Lisa Plumb
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified
3 Endorsed
Verified
3 Endorsed
Struggling with emotional pain and relationship difficulties can be overwhelming. My experience as a professional, along with my life experience, has prepared me to confidently share what I know works to heal core wounds and issues. Healing increases the ability to make healthy choices and have peaceful communication with yourself and others. I'm excited to be a co-detective in your process. My passion is helping people find and master solutions that work for them. I use interventions and tools, based on science, that work to empower you to resolve and heal issues.
(480) 452-0087
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Mesa, AZ 85204
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Against All Odds Integrated Community Care -AAOICC, Counselor in Mesa, AZ
Against All Odds Integrated Community Care -AAOICC
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified
Verified
In today's fast pace and overwhelming world it can be easy to find ourselves dealing with thoughts and emotions that are difficult to manage. As your therapist we will work on exploring the root of your feelings and build skills to help manage them for more positive outcomes.
(623) 227-9036
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Mesa, AZ 85206
& Online
Photo of Julie Huffman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mesa, AZ
Julie Huffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified
Verified
Welcome! I am a compassionate therapist with over five years of counseling experience specializing in working with teenagers and adults with trauma. In addition, I help clients overcome depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, family relationship problems, anger, grief and loss, life changes and navigating adulthood. I am EMDR trained and use EMDR to help process trauma. I can help you move from feeling stuck and incapable of change to a place of freedom and relief.
(480) 447-0400
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Mesa, AZ 85206
& Online
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Jessica Alvarez, Counselor in Mesa, AZ
Jessica Alvarez
Counselor, LAC
Verified
Verified
I understand that starting therapy can be an intimidating process. I also understand that each person enters therapy at a different place in their mental health journey. While I have experience with a diverse clientele, at my core, I am a relationship therapist. By this, I mean I specialize in helping clients connect to their relationships with themselves, partner(s), family members, or peers. I am here to guide you and make this process as simple as possible. I believe you are the expert in your own life. My role is to offer a safe and nonjudgmental stance and provided unbiased insight.
(480) 923-7518
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Mesa, AZ 85206
& Online
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Jessica Lowrance, Counselor in Mesa, AZ
Jessica Lowrance
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified
Verified
Maya Angelou said, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” I agree! Our stories are a part of who we are, and they shape our experiences. When we share our stories, we can heal from trauma, connect with others, and grow as individuals. I help individuals and couples explore the themes of attachment and connection in their stories, or lack thereof, which are essential to healing and growth. I use an attachment-focused lens to help you understand how your life experiences have shaped your current relationships and sense of self, so you can feel confident in your next chapter because you know the author.
(480) 571-9308 x1
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Mesa, AZ 85206
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Photo of Christine M Colburn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mesa, AZ
Christine M Colburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified
Verified
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
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Mesa, AZ 85202
& Online
Photo of Emma Enabnit, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mesa, AZ
Emma Enabnit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
In this moment you may be facing loss, disconnection, pain, depression, or anxiety. With deep respect for your experiences, it is my honor to support you in fostering hope for healing. Therapy is a partnership. It is not my role as a therapist to tell you how to live your life—I’m here to support and guide you while we untangle the issues you’re facing, then develop new strategies to help you feel healthy, whole, and content. And my firsthand experience with grief and training in compassionate bereavement care allows me to offer uniquely specific support to those struggling after the loss of a loved one.
(480) 608-9265
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Mesa, AZ 85206
& Online
Photo of Kerry Diana, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mesa, AZ
Kerry Diana
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified
Verified
My primary goal is to help you become the best/most whole version of yourself. We all experience the demands and stresses of life, and they can be challenging causing us to feel helpless. It can lead to feeling anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, isolated, and frustrated. Instead, you could be in control and taking on challenges calmly, steering your life in the direction you want it to go. I’m here to tell you that there is hope and that therapy can help you achieve a sense of control over your life, your choices, and your relationships. Please note that you do not need to be under the throes of a serious mental illness to benefit.
(480) 397-0948
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Mesa, AZ 85202
Photo of Olivia Dabboussi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mesa, AZ
Olivia Dabboussi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
You and your partner are struggling to understand one another, communicate effectively or feel that emotional connection you once had. You are committed to your relationship but need some support getting back on track. We are not often taught the necessary skills to be successful in relationships, which is why couples therapy is such a valuable resource in relationships of all types.
(928) 223-4715
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Mesa, AZ 85210
& Online
Photo of Cindy Bird, Counselor in Mesa, AZ
Cindy Bird
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified
Verified
Making the decision to see a counselor is not an easy one! I feel privileged to work with each of my clients and walk with them on their path to wholeness.
(480) 696-6846
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Mesa, AZ 85202
& Online
Photo of Kelsey Peterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mesa, AZ
Kelsey Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified
Verified
I believe that everyone has the tools within themselves which are necessary for healing. Therapy is a collaborative process to uncover those tools and help you increase your confidence in being able to access them whenever you need to get through life’s trials. Healing looks different for everyone, and everyone accesses healing in different ways. My favorite quote is from George Bernard Shaw- "Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself." I believe in the therapeutic process as a means to create the person and life of your dreams.
(480) 690-1597
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Mesa, AZ 85209
& Online
Photo of Smiles Trauma Recovery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mesa, AZ
Smiles Trauma Recovery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
For many of us, the story of our life includes enduring traumatic experiences. Sometimes the lasting impact of those experiences leaves us feeling stuck, overwhelmed and moved beyond our capacity to cope. You may find yourself in need of learning more effective coping skills for stress or beginning a healing journey to bounce back from traumatic experiences. I believe with the right help, you can heal. I provide personalized trauma therapy designed around your unique needs.
(480) 470-1424
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Mesa, AZ 85213
& Online
Photo of Judith Rand, Psychologist in Mesa, AZ
Judith Rand
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
I am Founder and CEO of The Family Prosperity Institute. My practice is biblically based and Scripture provides the foundation for the way I conceptualize my work. Within this context, I am dedicated to providing counseling, consulting, and educational services that empower clients to creatively plan their own destinies. I provide expert counseling services and innovative psychology knowledge and solutions to individuals, families, couples, and elders. Services are time-efficient and cost-effective.
(480) 466-7010
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Mesa, AZ 85202
Photo of Kalilah Ledbetter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mesa, AZ
Kalilah Ledbetter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified
Verified
Hello, I am a African American cisgender therapist. I am a genuine person that believes in a holistic approach that intertwines your mind, body and spirit on your path to healing. I am passionate, and take pride in being a co-creator assisting individuals in becoming the best version of themselves by getting to the root of the issue. It can be challenging to seek support at times, my goal is to create a non-judgmental and empathic space. In minority communities and the LGBTQIA community my goal is to teaching realistic skills to love and protect themselves mentally, emotionally, develop self-regulation, and accomplishing goals.
(480) 613-8503
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Mesa, AZ 85212
& Online
Photo of Jennifer Koppes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mesa, AZ
Jennifer Koppes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified
Verified
I am an experienced and supportive licensed social worker committed to helping clients feel better and achieve a path to self-care and healing. I have over 15 years of social work experience working with a diverse background of children and families. I am a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focused, and trained in trauma-based Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I recognize that each individual has their own set of needs, and I will partner with you on your own journey to mental health and wellness. I will guide you to work through past traumas with compassion.
(480) 568-1804
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Mesa, AZ 85205
& Online
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Christina Parker, Counselor in Mesa, AZ
Christina Parker
Counselor, MA, MS, LAC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I LOVE working with folks on the sexual, affectional, relational and gender spectrums. This includes non-traditional / non-monogamous individuals. I'm a member of the Society for Sexual, Affectional, Intersex, and Gender Expansive Identities. I'm passionate about providing affirming care and support. I deeply believe in everyone's right to be their authentic self and to live their truth. I also really enjoy working with folks who are in the process of spiritual and/or religious transition and those struggling with religious trauma. I specialize in treating dissociative disorders and in healing complex PTSD.
(833) 651-0327
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Mesa, AZ 85210
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Second Story Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mesa, AZ
Second Story Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified
4 Endorsed
Verified
4 Endorsed
Second Story Counseling is committed to providing high-quality therapy to strengthen individuals, couples, and families. Together we can embark on a journey to create a healthy view of self and others as you begin to feel seen and heard even in chaotic and painful circumstances. This process is very rewarding! We will support you as you create YOUR second story; a new and healthy narrative about your life.
(480) 530-6769
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Mesa, AZ 85205
& Online
Photo of Cactus Flower Healing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mesa, AZ
Cactus Flower Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Maybe you’ve tried counseling in the past and it helped, but just didn’t stick. Or you have a shelf of self-help books and have made some progress but feel stuck. You tell yourself you should be better by now. Or you beat yourself up for not using the tools and skills you've learned and feel like a failure when your self awareness doesn’t help you make healthier decisions. Are the things that happened in your past and your negative beliefs about yourself holding you back? We can help.
(480) 637-4602
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Mesa, AZ 85210
& Online

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.