Compassion Focused Therapists in 80903

Photo of Michelle Marie Morrissey, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80903, CO
Michelle Marie Morrissey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
At some point in life, perhaps now, a personal, relational, or professional crisis may pressure you toward a crossroad where you'll find yourself in unknown territory and possibly heading in a new direction. Such transitional times often feel unsettling and uncertain, even overwhelming; however, they can also be a turning point. Though difficult and often unwelcomed, this turning point can present a critical opportunity to make a real change, and finally address what you've struggled to resolve on your own, and no longer need to process alone.
At some point in life, perhaps now, a personal, relational, or professional crisis may pressure you toward a crossroad where you'll find yourself in unknown territory and possibly heading in a new direction. Such transitional times often feel unsettling and uncertain, even overwhelming; however, they can also be a turning point. Though difficult and often unwelcomed, this turning point can present a critical opportunity to make a real change, and finally address what you've struggled to resolve on your own, and no longer need to process alone.
(719) 309-4407 View (719) 309-4407
Photo of Elizabeth Robbins @ Forge Counseling Collective, Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate in 80903, CO
Elizabeth Robbins @ Forge Counseling Collective
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MA, MFTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Relationships are necessary and influential parts of every person’s life. Healthy interpersonal relationships are fulfilling and life-enhancing. However, every relationship is bound to encounter problems. My understanding of the importance of relationships spurs my passion for working with couples, families, and individuals who are experiencing relational struggles.
Relationships are necessary and influential parts of every person’s life. Healthy interpersonal relationships are fulfilling and life-enhancing. However, every relationship is bound to encounter problems. My understanding of the importance of relationships spurs my passion for working with couples, families, and individuals who are experiencing relational struggles.
(719) 982-2238 View (719) 982-2238
Photo of Salena Mitchell, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80903, CO
Salena Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LAC, LPC
Verified Verified
I assist with a client centered approach in a warm and friendly environment that is modest and humble.
I assist with a client centered approach in a warm and friendly environment that is modest and humble.
(719) 645-7185 View (719) 645-7185
Photo of Janice Van Anrooy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80903, CO
Janice Van Anrooy, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I love working with individuals, families and couples to help them achieve health and well being. I have been in Colorado as a licensed therapist for over 32 years. The main issues that I work with are Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorders, Relationship Issues, PTSD, Adolescent Issues, Health and Wellness, Life Coaching and Eating Disorders (and Disordered Eating). Although I have worked with many issues, I specialize in the treatment of Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating. The populations I work with are adolescents through adults. Greta, my therapy dog, joins us in sessions.
I love working with individuals, families and couples to help them achieve health and well being. I have been in Colorado as a licensed therapist for over 32 years. The main issues that I work with are Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorders, Relationship Issues, PTSD, Adolescent Issues, Health and Wellness, Life Coaching and Eating Disorders (and Disordered Eating). Although I have worked with many issues, I specialize in the treatment of Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating. The populations I work with are adolescents through adults. Greta, my therapy dog, joins us in sessions.
(719) 354-2765 View (719) 354-2765
Photo of Chelsea McLain, Counselor in 80903, CO
Chelsea McLain
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Life can be difficult, and a therapeutic relationship can propel a person's journey of change. Whether your situation is chronic or a single event, I will patiently work with you to equip you for your unique circumstance. As a counselor, I utilize a mixture of approaches, including humanistic and CBT approaches, and will meet you where you are at. No matter your stressors, needs, or goals, I am ready and willing to walk alongside you. It takes courage to reach out, I commend you for taking that first step. I am here to walk with you during your trying times and help you find the inner peace, joy, and success you deserve.
Life can be difficult, and a therapeutic relationship can propel a person's journey of change. Whether your situation is chronic or a single event, I will patiently work with you to equip you for your unique circumstance. As a counselor, I utilize a mixture of approaches, including humanistic and CBT approaches, and will meet you where you are at. No matter your stressors, needs, or goals, I am ready and willing to walk alongside you. It takes courage to reach out, I commend you for taking that first step. I am here to walk with you during your trying times and help you find the inner peace, joy, and success you deserve.
(719) 938-0312 View (719) 938-0312
Photo of Dina Marie Buckey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80903, CO
Dina Marie Buckey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
EMBRACE YOUR LIFE. You deserve a life filled with meaning and purpose. I am here to assist you in harnessing the strength that lives within you and give you the courage to be in charge of your healing. Therapy can be a gateway to healing and living a joyous, fulfilling life. I would be privileged to be part of your healing journey so you can embrace all the beauty life has to offer.
EMBRACE YOUR LIFE. You deserve a life filled with meaning and purpose. I am here to assist you in harnessing the strength that lives within you and give you the courage to be in charge of your healing. Therapy can be a gateway to healing and living a joyous, fulfilling life. I would be privileged to be part of your healing journey so you can embrace all the beauty life has to offer.
(719) 452-8994 View (719) 452-8994
Photo of Jenny Luning, Counselor in 80903, CO
Jenny Luning
Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
We are all born with dreams and a purpose to fulfill. Sometimes those dreams are muted or tossed aside in the face of grief, challenges or simply the effort to survive. There are times when each of us will face challenges that seem beyond us. The good news is, you do not have to do it alone. Let me help you remember your true identity and call out the strength within that you may not be able to see. You are unique, resilient and made for the journey in which you find yourself.
We are all born with dreams and a purpose to fulfill. Sometimes those dreams are muted or tossed aside in the face of grief, challenges or simply the effort to survive. There are times when each of us will face challenges that seem beyond us. The good news is, you do not have to do it alone. Let me help you remember your true identity and call out the strength within that you may not be able to see. You are unique, resilient and made for the journey in which you find yourself.
(719) 602-7764 View (719) 602-7764
Photo of Kendra Todd @ Forge Counseling Collective, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80903, CO
Kendra Todd @ Forge Counseling Collective
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Life is hard. Things are weird. And emotions are all over the place. You're always adapting, and it feels like more is being asked of you each time you feel like you're getting settled. But I'll let you in on a secret- you've got this. It may not feel that way right now, but deep inside you've been given, and have ALWAYS held, the ability to change. To adapt. To overcome. If you've read this far and you're thinking you want to know more about the ember that's kindling inside- I'm your gal (or therapist, in this instance).
Life is hard. Things are weird. And emotions are all over the place. You're always adapting, and it feels like more is being asked of you each time you feel like you're getting settled. But I'll let you in on a secret- you've got this. It may not feel that way right now, but deep inside you've been given, and have ALWAYS held, the ability to change. To adapt. To overcome. If you've read this far and you're thinking you want to know more about the ember that's kindling inside- I'm your gal (or therapist, in this instance).
(719) 624-8793 View (719) 624-8793
Photo of Jillian Elliott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80903, CO
Jillian Elliott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, ASAM
Verified Verified
Are you experiencing problems with addiction? Do you have trouble handling depression, trauma, and anxiety? I would like to be your guide in becoming sober and healing. As a experienced clinician, I recognize those that struggle with mental health and addiction are some of the most intelligent and artistic individuals. Often, those that experience anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts saw drugs and alcohol as a way to cope and calm their thoughts. I am here to walk you through the journey of hope to recovery, however that may look to you.
Are you experiencing problems with addiction? Do you have trouble handling depression, trauma, and anxiety? I would like to be your guide in becoming sober and healing. As a experienced clinician, I recognize those that struggle with mental health and addiction are some of the most intelligent and artistic individuals. Often, those that experience anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts saw drugs and alcohol as a way to cope and calm their thoughts. I am here to walk you through the journey of hope to recovery, however that may look to you.
(719) 212-1149 View (719) 212-1149
Photo of Mariah Devenish, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80903, CO
Mariah Devenish
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, EMDR, DBT, Reiki
Verified Verified
I offer individuals the opportunity to experience emotional wellness and personal growth in a safe and supportive environment. My goal is to help individuals seeking a better understanding of themselves, improve symptoms of depression or anxiety, aid in the development of new healthy stress management techniques, increase self-awareness and develop a true sense of self-worth. Inner Harmony is a non-judge mental space for those motivated for interpersonal wellness. I have an eclectic approach to therapy and include whole person wellness, Art expression, education on Nutritions impact on our mental and emotional wellness and more.
I offer individuals the opportunity to experience emotional wellness and personal growth in a safe and supportive environment. My goal is to help individuals seeking a better understanding of themselves, improve symptoms of depression or anxiety, aid in the development of new healthy stress management techniques, increase self-awareness and develop a true sense of self-worth. Inner Harmony is a non-judge mental space for those motivated for interpersonal wellness. I have an eclectic approach to therapy and include whole person wellness, Art expression, education on Nutritions impact on our mental and emotional wellness and more.
(719) 419-8673 View (719) 419-8673
Photo of Kristianne L Goff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80903, CO
Kristianne L Goff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
If you are struggling (relationally, socially, emotionally, or vocationally) and need to know that you are OK, you are not alone. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, codependency, ADHD, or relationship issues that keep you from the life you want to live. You may be seeking understanding, validation, and permission to care for yourself. Thinking traps like "I shouldn't feel this way" are common and treatable. Sometimes it takes an outsider to help us recognize thinking patterns that block freedom. My goal is to empower people to make changes needed for a balanced, healthy life.
If you are struggling (relationally, socially, emotionally, or vocationally) and need to know that you are OK, you are not alone. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, codependency, ADHD, or relationship issues that keep you from the life you want to live. You may be seeking understanding, validation, and permission to care for yourself. Thinking traps like "I shouldn't feel this way" are common and treatable. Sometimes it takes an outsider to help us recognize thinking patterns that block freedom. My goal is to empower people to make changes needed for a balanced, healthy life.
(719) 398-7418 View (719) 398-7418
Photo of Mary Emily Butt, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80903, CO
Mary Emily Butt
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hello! Are you feeling disconnected from your truest self? Does your relationship with food or your body feel strained? Are you grappling with establishing meaning after difficult experiences? I specialize in helping individuals experiencing eating disorders, depression, life changes, religious trauma, or body image issues. Together, we can work on managing challenging emotions, improving your relationship with food, or cultivating a stronger sense of purpose and self. My adaptable approach might involve art therapy, writing, embodiment exercises, and outdoor activities during sessions.
Hello! Are you feeling disconnected from your truest self? Does your relationship with food or your body feel strained? Are you grappling with establishing meaning after difficult experiences? I specialize in helping individuals experiencing eating disorders, depression, life changes, religious trauma, or body image issues. Together, we can work on managing challenging emotions, improving your relationship with food, or cultivating a stronger sense of purpose and self. My adaptable approach might involve art therapy, writing, embodiment exercises, and outdoor activities during sessions.
(719) 751-5427 View (719) 751-5427
Photo of Brandy Petrie, Psychologist in 80903, CO
Brandy Petrie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Many people who grew up in families where their emotional needs were not met struggle with harsh self-judgment and feelings of not "being good enough." Perfectionism and overachieving may be used to cope, but this may lead to people-pleasing and overcommitment—eventually, exhaustion and physical symptoms of stress set in. Individuals who have experienced Childhood Emotional Neglect benefit from developing self-compassion, safe exploration of their emotions, and healthy relationships with self and others through a safe and supportive space.
Many people who grew up in families where their emotional needs were not met struggle with harsh self-judgment and feelings of not "being good enough." Perfectionism and overachieving may be used to cope, but this may lead to people-pleasing and overcommitment—eventually, exhaustion and physical symptoms of stress set in. Individuals who have experienced Childhood Emotional Neglect benefit from developing self-compassion, safe exploration of their emotions, and healthy relationships with self and others through a safe and supportive space.
(719) 212-4825 View (719) 212-4825
Photo of Anna Duerst, LPC Intern in 80903, CO
Anna Duerst
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Anna (she/her) is working towards her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS). She is beginning her clinical internship journey and has experience working with adults impacted by trauma, mental health, incarceration, and substance use issues. She is also a Certified Addiction Technician and has worked within a residential treatment setting. Anna approaches counseling from a person-centered perspective and also uses attachment theory to help her clients understand their relationship patterns.
Anna (she/her) is working towards her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS). She is beginning her clinical internship journey and has experience working with adults impacted by trauma, mental health, incarceration, and substance use issues. She is also a Certified Addiction Technician and has worked within a residential treatment setting. Anna approaches counseling from a person-centered perspective and also uses attachment theory to help her clients understand their relationship patterns.
(719) 350-6791 View (719) 350-6791
Photo of Chelsea Schor, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80903, CO
Chelsea Schor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Ever since high school, Chelsea has been passionate about facilitating the healing power of creative expression via art therapy. Art therapy is a mental health profession in which the creative process is used as the avenue for the client and the art therapist to build a therapeutic relationship. Through art therapy, the client can express themselves and gain new insight about the self and their place in the world. Chelsea has interned at a school, residential treatment facility, and Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and has worked in community mental health with an intensive outpatient/rehabilitation program, and private practice.
Ever since high school, Chelsea has been passionate about facilitating the healing power of creative expression via art therapy. Art therapy is a mental health profession in which the creative process is used as the avenue for the client and the art therapist to build a therapeutic relationship. Through art therapy, the client can express themselves and gain new insight about the self and their place in the world. Chelsea has interned at a school, residential treatment facility, and Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and has worked in community mental health with an intensive outpatient/rehabilitation program, and private practice.
(719) 223-3624 View (719) 223-3624
Photo of Janis Lyn Cross, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80903, CO
Janis Lyn Cross
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
If you are looking for someone who can provide understanding and support with empathy and kindness, this is my focus. I provide the tools for each individual’s unique needs to overcome anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, and any other mental health concerns you might be dealing with today. I have personal experience and clinical expertise in supporting individuals navigating separation, divorce, blended families, parenting challenges, depression, addiction, and anxiety. My work is dedicated to validating each person’s experience and to help them achieve peace and serenity.
If you are looking for someone who can provide understanding and support with empathy and kindness, this is my focus. I provide the tools for each individual’s unique needs to overcome anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, and any other mental health concerns you might be dealing with today. I have personal experience and clinical expertise in supporting individuals navigating separation, divorce, blended families, parenting challenges, depression, addiction, and anxiety. My work is dedicated to validating each person’s experience and to help them achieve peace and serenity.
(719) 294-2371 View (719) 294-2371
Photo of Kristen Martin, Pre-Licensed Professional in 80903, CO
Kristen Martin
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Both In-person and Telehealth availability. Are you ready to feel complete and have purpose? Are you ready to feel better? I am determined to help provide and discover what you need to heal. I specialize in trauma and anxiety with adults, teens, and children. I have been trained in EMDR, BST, Biofeedback, and Life Trajectory work. I work with CBT, TF-CBT, ERP, Play-Therapy, and Sand-Tray Therapy. I have experience in both adult and youth corrections, along with behavior modification. I support the LGBTQIA+ community and have worked with individuals affected by HIV/AIDS.
Both In-person and Telehealth availability. Are you ready to feel complete and have purpose? Are you ready to feel better? I am determined to help provide and discover what you need to heal. I specialize in trauma and anxiety with adults, teens, and children. I have been trained in EMDR, BST, Biofeedback, and Life Trajectory work. I work with CBT, TF-CBT, ERP, Play-Therapy, and Sand-Tray Therapy. I have experience in both adult and youth corrections, along with behavior modification. I support the LGBTQIA+ community and have worked with individuals affected by HIV/AIDS.
(719) 293-7607 View (719) 293-7607
Photo of Brittney Barger, LPC Intern in 80903, CO
Brittney Barger
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brittney (she/her) is working towards her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS). She is very excited to begin her journey as a counselor and an intern. Brittney has worked in with adults and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder primarily through Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy along with various other roles. Brittney believes in building a therapeutic relationship that is build upon trust and respect. It is important to her to create a safe space in which her clients feel comfortable to share their stories and experiences.
Brittney (she/her) is working towards her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS). She is very excited to begin her journey as a counselor and an intern. Brittney has worked in with adults and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder primarily through Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy along with various other roles. Brittney believes in building a therapeutic relationship that is build upon trust and respect. It is important to her to create a safe space in which her clients feel comfortable to share their stories and experiences.
(719) 497-5996 View (719) 497-5996
Photo of Kira Whitley, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80903, CO
Kira Whitley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
We are constantly bombarded with messages telling us that we need to do it all on our own. I have good news- you are not alone and you don't have to do it on your own! We all have a deep desire to be fully known and fully loved. It is my belief that we can't be fully known and loved by others until we fully know and love ourselves. Having a strong sense of identity and purpose allows us to heal, forgive, and move forward with clarity, hope, and tenacity.
We are constantly bombarded with messages telling us that we need to do it all on our own. I have good news- you are not alone and you don't have to do it on your own! We all have a deep desire to be fully known and fully loved. It is my belief that we can't be fully known and loved by others until we fully know and love ourselves. Having a strong sense of identity and purpose allows us to heal, forgive, and move forward with clarity, hope, and tenacity.
(719) 354-2783 View (719) 354-2783
Photo of Fran Weitzel-Callan, Psychologist in 80903, CO
Fran Weitzel-Callan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903  (Online Only)
In working with clients, I hope to help individual's discover their uniqueness. However, over my 15 years of working with people as a psychologist, I have also come to appreciate the many similarities inherent in being a human being. Often people come to therapy because they feel, "Something is wrong with me." I have found it to be healing when a patient realizes, "Oh, that's a normal response," given what has happened. They can then be open to learn ways to work with their symptoms, to work on their goals, and to begin living a satisfying life with the ability to find the inherent joys, along with the challenges, in life.
In working with clients, I hope to help individual's discover their uniqueness. However, over my 15 years of working with people as a psychologist, I have also come to appreciate the many similarities inherent in being a human being. Often people come to therapy because they feel, "Something is wrong with me." I have found it to be healing when a patient realizes, "Oh, that's a normal response," given what has happened. They can then be open to learn ways to work with their symptoms, to work on their goals, and to begin living a satisfying life with the ability to find the inherent joys, along with the challenges, in life.
(719) 316-3902 View (719) 316-3902
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.