Photo of Thien Pham, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94025, CA
Thien Pham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with Asian Americans on issues such as anxiety, stress, relationship and cultural identity issues. I want to learn how your unique environment and experiences have shaped who you are today and the challenges that may occur as a result. I make space for both process oriented and result oriented therapy. My clients have shared that they and enjoy discussing practical tools that they can practice outside of session as well as having space to express their thoughts and feelings.
I specialize in working with Asian Americans on issues such as anxiety, stress, relationship and cultural identity issues. I want to learn how your unique environment and experiences have shaped who you are today and the challenges that may occur as a result. I make space for both process oriented and result oriented therapy. My clients have shared that they and enjoy discussing practical tools that they can practice outside of session as well as having space to express their thoughts and feelings.
(415) 855-9339 View (415) 855-9339
Photo of Amy La, Psychologist in 94025, CA
Amy La
Psychologist, PhD, MBA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Are you feeling stuck? Are your problems interfering with your life, your health, and/or your work? Are you having relationship problems with your partner, family members, friends or colleagues? Are you dealing with loss? Do you want to explore your racial/cultural identities? I can help. I personalize treatment based on your individual needs and goals. I acknowledge your courage to invest in yourself and prioritize your wellness. In a supportive and safe environment, we will explore and address your issues and experiences. I will assist you in reaching your goals that align with your values.
Are you feeling stuck? Are your problems interfering with your life, your health, and/or your work? Are you having relationship problems with your partner, family members, friends or colleagues? Are you dealing with loss? Do you want to explore your racial/cultural identities? I can help. I personalize treatment based on your individual needs and goals. I acknowledge your courage to invest in yourself and prioritize your wellness. In a supportive and safe environment, we will explore and address your issues and experiences. I will assist you in reaching your goals that align with your values.
(562) 561-2985 View (562) 561-2985
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.