Photo of Fisher Willis Psychological Services, PLLC, Psychologist in 40511, KY
Fisher Willis Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40511  (Online Only)
Many of my clients have struggled with various forms of anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions and past trauma. Many of my clients have been women of color navigating challenges with family, work, grief, parenting and relationships, while attempting to cope with the stressors that come with these roles. Often, these clients are attempting to be the best version of themselves, and want assistance in identifying and strengthening ways to thrive, rather than merely survive.
Many of my clients have struggled with various forms of anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions and past trauma. Many of my clients have been women of color navigating challenges with family, work, grief, parenting and relationships, while attempting to cope with the stressors that come with these roles. Often, these clients are attempting to be the best version of themselves, and want assistance in identifying and strengthening ways to thrive, rather than merely survive.
(859) 549-3930 View (859) 549-3930
Photo of Rosalie (Guthrie) Allen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 40511, KY
Rosalie (Guthrie) Allen
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40511
Hi, I’m Rosalie. I help couples and parents who are stressed out and need support. I believe you’re doing the best you can. Maybe you are ready to work on marital problems that have slowly built up over the years. Maybe you're not sure if you and your spouse/partner can recover the love and connection that you once counted on. Perhaps you would like to feel more confident as a parent or co-parent. Maybe you just need to figure out where to start. I can help you no matter where you are in your couple/family journey.
Hi, I’m Rosalie. I help couples and parents who are stressed out and need support. I believe you’re doing the best you can. Maybe you are ready to work on marital problems that have slowly built up over the years. Maybe you're not sure if you and your spouse/partner can recover the love and connection that you once counted on. Perhaps you would like to feel more confident as a parent or co-parent. Maybe you just need to figure out where to start. I can help you no matter where you are in your couple/family journey.
(859) 203-1411 View (859) 203-1411
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.