Compassion Focused Therapists in Alabama

Photo of Taylor Gibson, Counselor in Alabama
Taylor Gibson
Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35222
There are a number of things that can create feelings of hopelessness, overwhelm, anxiety and stress. Changes and transition in our lives, our perceptions of self, and conditions within our relationships may inspire a desire for further insight and understanding of what we find important as well as how we might like to grow. Through counseling, you may begin exploring stuck points and areas of growth, supporting you in finding relief from emotional pain and in cultivating self-compassion - increasing your ability to cope with challenging situations and circumstances as you experience them.
There are a number of things that can create feelings of hopelessness, overwhelm, anxiety and stress. Changes and transition in our lives, our perceptions of self, and conditions within our relationships may inspire a desire for further insight and understanding of what we find important as well as how we might like to grow. Through counseling, you may begin exploring stuck points and areas of growth, supporting you in finding relief from emotional pain and in cultivating self-compassion - increasing your ability to cope with challenging situations and circumstances as you experience them.
(205) 857-9815 View (205) 857-9815
Photo of Anneliese Knop, Counselor in Alabama
Anneliese Knop
Counselor, ALC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
When your life doesn’t fit the stories they tell, when your experience doesn’t match a list of symptoms, when you’re ready to find, or perhaps recover, your voice. Many people feel silenced simply because their struggles and strengths are unfamiliar and misunderstood, or even denied, by others. The fear of being deemed unacceptable can be paralyzing.
When your life doesn’t fit the stories they tell, when your experience doesn’t match a list of symptoms, when you’re ready to find, or perhaps recover, your voice. Many people feel silenced simply because their struggles and strengths are unfamiliar and misunderstood, or even denied, by others. The fear of being deemed unacceptable can be paralyzing.
(256) 685-5126 View (256) 685-5126
Photo of Christina Lilly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Christina Lilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Daleville, AL 36322
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling more than usual? Do you feel anxious and scared, maybe even a little depressed? Let me help you! Life does not come with an instruction manual and it's natural to not always have the answers or know what to do next. Mental health is vital to living your best life and that's where I come in. I am here to help you get back on track when life tries to knock you off your path. If you are looking for someone who is compassion focused; if you need a coach; need help with motivation, anxiety, depression or even compassion fatigue; I am here to help!
Are you struggling more than usual? Do you feel anxious and scared, maybe even a little depressed? Let me help you! Life does not come with an instruction manual and it's natural to not always have the answers or know what to do next. Mental health is vital to living your best life and that's where I come in. I am here to help you get back on track when life tries to knock you off your path. If you are looking for someone who is compassion focused; if you need a coach; need help with motivation, anxiety, depression or even compassion fatigue; I am here to help!
(334) 234-7125 View (334) 234-7125
Photo of Christiana 'ana' Cowden, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Christiana 'ana' Cowden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to help my clients learn to cope in stressful situations, manage overwhelming emotions, and make positive behavior changes.
I have been working as a counselor for about 4 years serving individuals with substance use disorders, eating disorders, anxiety/depression, and difficulties with emotional regulation. I take a health at every size (HAES) approach with my eating disorder clients. I have worked with Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, and Otherwise Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder.
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to help my clients learn to cope in stressful situations, manage overwhelming emotions, and make positive behavior changes.
I have been working as a counselor for about 4 years serving individuals with substance use disorders, eating disorders, anxiety/depression, and difficulties with emotional regulation. I take a health at every size (HAES) approach with my eating disorder clients. I have worked with Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, and Otherwise Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder.
(256) 618-8657 View (256) 618-8657
Photo of Shanton Roberson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Shanton Roberson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35758
I am experienced in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy.
Hello, my name is Shanton Roberson. I am licensed in the state of Alabama and Florida as a clinical social worker. I am a firm believer in iron sharpening iron. It is beneficial to have a tribe and support system for those seasons in life that seem difficult to master on our own. My goal as a therapist is to provide tools during any season of the life journey, provide support during the healing process, and to help to redefine one’s purpose.
I am experienced in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy.
Hello, my name is Shanton Roberson. I am licensed in the state of Alabama and Florida as a clinical social worker. I am a firm believer in iron sharpening iron. It is beneficial to have a tribe and support system for those seasons in life that seem difficult to master on our own. My goal as a therapist is to provide tools during any season of the life journey, provide support during the healing process, and to help to redefine one’s purpose.
(256) 602-2833 View (256) 602-2833
Photo of Mikala Pickens, Counselor in Alabama
Mikala Pickens
Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hueytown, AL 35023
I have 9 years of experience working with adults, teens, and college students with a variety of mental health needs and life goals. My main goal is to truly see you as you are, free of judgment, and work with you to determine achievable goals that will lead to a better quality of life. I take into account all experiences and identities that you bring to the table and how they have affected you. My main function as a therapist is to provide you with a safe place to process these events and experiences and also give you some helpful skills and techniques to use throughout life’s journey.
I have 9 years of experience working with adults, teens, and college students with a variety of mental health needs and life goals. My main goal is to truly see you as you are, free of judgment, and work with you to determine achievable goals that will lead to a better quality of life. I take into account all experiences and identities that you bring to the table and how they have affected you. My main function as a therapist is to provide you with a safe place to process these events and experiences and also give you some helpful skills and techniques to use throughout life’s journey.
(205) 202-0549 View (205) 202-0549
Photo of Tori Conner-Hearn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Tori Conner-Hearn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MPH, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35244
Hello. I'm Tori. I'm so glad you are here. As a professional counselor, my goal is to help you make sense of your thoughts and feelings, feel less alone, and create the changes you want in yourself. I‘ll work with you in a compassion, collaborative way to overcome the roadblocks that you struggle with even if they seem overwhelming. I specialize in working with clients dealing with anxiety, trauma (especially sexual abuse/assault and relationship violence), PTSD, grief, and gender identity. I am LGBTQ affirming. I work from a social justice and feminist framework. I am a CCTP Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
Hello. I'm Tori. I'm so glad you are here. As a professional counselor, my goal is to help you make sense of your thoughts and feelings, feel less alone, and create the changes you want in yourself. I‘ll work with you in a compassion, collaborative way to overcome the roadblocks that you struggle with even if they seem overwhelming. I specialize in working with clients dealing with anxiety, trauma (especially sexual abuse/assault and relationship violence), PTSD, grief, and gender identity. I am LGBTQ affirming. I work from a social justice and feminist framework. I am a CCTP Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
(205) 255-1612 View (205) 255-1612
Photo of Heather Surber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Heather Surber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758
If the events of the last year have taught us anything, it's that life DOES throw us curve balls. All of us, at one time or another, face the unexpected, the unplanned, the challenging, which can lead to anxiety, depression and emotional distress. Even the day-to-day can lead us down that same path. Being equipped with resiliency and effective coping skills is essential to stability and overall wellness. And I would love to help you get there!
If the events of the last year have taught us anything, it's that life DOES throw us curve balls. All of us, at one time or another, face the unexpected, the unplanned, the challenging, which can lead to anxiety, depression and emotional distress. Even the day-to-day can lead us down that same path. Being equipped with resiliency and effective coping skills is essential to stability and overall wellness. And I would love to help you get there!
(256) 223-9855 View (256) 223-9855
Photo of Marlene Kay Carver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Marlene Kay Carver
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Helena, AL 35080  (Online Only)
Sometimes life’s problems and dilemmas need to be addressed in counseling or they could possibly interfere with the opportunity for you to experience a happier, purposeful, balanced, and fulfilling life. I invite you to join me in a therapeutic relationship that facilitates understanding your thoughts and feelings. By utilizing this developing knowledge, together we can explore and resolve the conflicts in your life rather than feeling stuck. With genuine warmth, compassion, and understanding we can look at skills and tools that will help you feel less anxious or depressed.
Sometimes life’s problems and dilemmas need to be addressed in counseling or they could possibly interfere with the opportunity for you to experience a happier, purposeful, balanced, and fulfilling life. I invite you to join me in a therapeutic relationship that facilitates understanding your thoughts and feelings. By utilizing this developing knowledge, together we can explore and resolve the conflicts in your life rather than feeling stuck. With genuine warmth, compassion, and understanding we can look at skills and tools that will help you feel less anxious or depressed.
(205) 619-8515 View (205) 619-8515
Photo of Unlimited Potential Therapeutic Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Unlimited Potential Therapeutic Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36104
Unlimited Potential Therapeutic Services, LLC (UPTherapy) works with children who have a variety of mental health needs by working with their identified family to create a realistic plan of treatment.
Unlimited Potential Therapeutic Services, LLC (UPTherapy) works with children who have a variety of mental health needs by working with their identified family to create a realistic plan of treatment.
(334) 641-0544 View (334) 641-0544
Photo of Elizabeth Graves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Elizabeth Graves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
If 2020 has taught us anything it is that our lives can change in an instant. We had to learn how to navigate working from home, homeschooling our children, social distancing, and being away from our loved ones. Throughout these difficult times it is easy to forget about our mental health and how much it effects our physical health. My name is Elizabeth, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with all populations and have come to believe therapy is about respect and meeting people in their current season of life. I have experience providing individual and family therapy to children, adults,
If 2020 has taught us anything it is that our lives can change in an instant. We had to learn how to navigate working from home, homeschooling our children, social distancing, and being away from our loved ones. Throughout these difficult times it is easy to forget about our mental health and how much it effects our physical health. My name is Elizabeth, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with all populations and have come to believe therapy is about respect and meeting people in their current season of life. I have experience providing individual and family therapy to children, adults,
(256) 563-4395 View (256) 563-4395
Photo of Katrina Freeman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Katrina Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35806  (Online Only)
Katrina Freeman is a licensed professional counselor with 33 years of experience in the field of mental health. She is committed to helping individuals, couples, and families address the challenges and issues they are faced with so they can lead more healthy and balanced lives. Katrina specializes in anxiety, grief, depression, relationship issues, and alcohol/substance abuse. Katrina is a National Certified Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She completed her Master of Arts in Counseling at the University of Alabama-Birmingham.
Katrina Freeman is a licensed professional counselor with 33 years of experience in the field of mental health. She is committed to helping individuals, couples, and families address the challenges and issues they are faced with so they can lead more healthy and balanced lives. Katrina specializes in anxiety, grief, depression, relationship issues, and alcohol/substance abuse. Katrina is a National Certified Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She completed her Master of Arts in Counseling at the University of Alabama-Birmingham.
(256) 695-5476 View (256) 695-5476
Photo of Stephanie Philpot Professional Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Stephanie Philpot Professional Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Daphne, AL 36526
We are more capable of change than we believe. Before change is attainable, we must believe change is possible. Stephanie is Level II trained in EMDR, a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from symptoms & emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. In a relaxed environment using natural conversation, Stephanie helps clients become aware of self-defeating thoughts & behaviors that contribute to feeling overwhelmed & low self-esteem. By recognizing & changing these patterns, growth & healthy emotional responses develop, while self-doubt & confusion are transformed to self-confidence, clarity, & peace.
We are more capable of change than we believe. Before change is attainable, we must believe change is possible. Stephanie is Level II trained in EMDR, a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from symptoms & emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. In a relaxed environment using natural conversation, Stephanie helps clients become aware of self-defeating thoughts & behaviors that contribute to feeling overwhelmed & low self-esteem. By recognizing & changing these patterns, growth & healthy emotional responses develop, while self-doubt & confusion are transformed to self-confidence, clarity, & peace.
(251) 254-2784 View (251) 254-2784
Photo of Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
At Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic our shared goal is to provide an integrative approach to counseling that assists you in finding your optimal mental, emotional, spiritual, and sexual health. MBH Wellness is comprised of multiple licensed therapists who specialize in and are passionate about a wide range of mental health concerns. We addresses the relational, cognitive, emotional, sexual, physical, cultural, and socio-economic factors impacting your wellbeing. When you are paired with a therapist that fits your unique needs, positive change is a logical consequence!
At Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic our shared goal is to provide an integrative approach to counseling that assists you in finding your optimal mental, emotional, spiritual, and sexual health. MBH Wellness is comprised of multiple licensed therapists who specialize in and are passionate about a wide range of mental health concerns. We addresses the relational, cognitive, emotional, sexual, physical, cultural, and socio-economic factors impacting your wellbeing. When you are paired with a therapist that fits your unique needs, positive change is a logical consequence!
(205) 509-1811 View (205) 509-1811
Photo of Tristan Rice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Tristan Rice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Fort Payne, AL 35967  (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling with a loss of a loved one, feeling overwhelmed by depression or anxiety, facing challenges in your relationships, or experiencing unique issues that women encounter, I am dedicated to working collaboratively with you to develop personalized strategies for growth and healing. Together we will explore your strengths, identify areas for growth, and develop practical coping skills to enhance your overall well-being. I understand that aspects of life can be overwhelming and complex, and I am here to offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space for you to explore and heal.
Whether you are struggling with a loss of a loved one, feeling overwhelmed by depression or anxiety, facing challenges in your relationships, or experiencing unique issues that women encounter, I am dedicated to working collaboratively with you to develop personalized strategies for growth and healing. Together we will explore your strengths, identify areas for growth, and develop practical coping skills to enhance your overall well-being. I understand that aspects of life can be overwhelming and complex, and I am here to offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space for you to explore and heal.
(256) 257-8153 View (256) 257-8153
Photo of Shannon White, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Shannon White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pelham, AL 35124
In today's society, people feel pressure to choose a side or struggle with what to say. It's hard to determine where you fit in or who to trust. This is not a way to go through life. I help clients decipher what is important and refocus on those things that matter most. While we can't change the world overnight, we can help influence and change our environment and be a positive light to those we encounter. Life is a journey with ups and downs but it's up to us to embrace each day and use it to accomplish something new and choose to see the joy in each moment.
In today's society, people feel pressure to choose a side or struggle with what to say. It's hard to determine where you fit in or who to trust. This is not a way to go through life. I help clients decipher what is important and refocus on those things that matter most. While we can't change the world overnight, we can help influence and change our environment and be a positive light to those we encounter. Life is a journey with ups and downs but it's up to us to embrace each day and use it to accomplish something new and choose to see the joy in each moment.
(205) 890-7664 View (205) 890-7664
Photo of Called2EncourageInc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Called2EncourageInc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ICADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35203  (Online Only)
Called2Encourage mission is to assist individuals in facilitating change, maximize their potential, so they can boldly embark upon their purpose with confidence and clarity. I am spiritual and practical counselor that assist individuals by exploring/healing inner child wounds and breaking generational curses.
Called2Encourage mission is to assist individuals in facilitating change, maximize their potential, so they can boldly embark upon their purpose with confidence and clarity. I am spiritual and practical counselor that assist individuals by exploring/healing inner child wounds and breaking generational curses.
(205) 606-6448 View (205) 606-6448
Photo of Tara Tate, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
Tara Tate
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairhope, AL 36532
Waitlist for new clients
UPDATE as of 9/7/23... I currently am NOT able to take on new clients. I appreciate your interest and apologize for any inconvenience this may create. I DO have availability with my MFT student/intern. Please reach out to be seen by him. We all struggle in life sometimes and need help! In this day and age it can be hard to find the space to discuss the challenges of life with someone in a safe and genuine way. I enjoy meeting people where they are at in life, without judgement, and helping them sort out their next steps whether they be for improvement, maintenance, or understanding.
UPDATE as of 9/7/23... I currently am NOT able to take on new clients. I appreciate your interest and apologize for any inconvenience this may create. I DO have availability with my MFT student/intern. Please reach out to be seen by him. We all struggle in life sometimes and need help! In this day and age it can be hard to find the space to discuss the challenges of life with someone in a safe and genuine way. I enjoy meeting people where they are at in life, without judgement, and helping them sort out their next steps whether they be for improvement, maintenance, or understanding.
(251) 270-2441 View (251) 270-2441
Photo of Serenity Psychotherapy (Chandra Zeigler), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Serenity Psychotherapy (Chandra Zeigler)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36111
I am a Licensed Social Worker in Alabama with 24 years of experience providing mental health and behavioral counseling in various settings and various aspects of counseling. My client populations includes, but is not limited to working with adolescents, adults, geriatrics with a variety of mental health/behavioral presenting issues . As a skilled therapist and coach, my goal is to work with clients in providing strategies to overcome emotional, behavioral, and mental health barriers to well-being. My goal is to meet clients where they are and develop strategies that empower them to walk in wholeness and live the life they desire
I am a Licensed Social Worker in Alabama with 24 years of experience providing mental health and behavioral counseling in various settings and various aspects of counseling. My client populations includes, but is not limited to working with adolescents, adults, geriatrics with a variety of mental health/behavioral presenting issues . As a skilled therapist and coach, my goal is to work with clients in providing strategies to overcome emotional, behavioral, and mental health barriers to well-being. My goal is to meet clients where they are and develop strategies that empower them to walk in wholeness and live the life they desire
(334) 605-9078 View (334) 605-9078
Photo of Lanya Daffin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Lanya Daffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36608
I believe the therapy process involves forming a relationship with someone who you can share your innermost thoughts and struggles with. Everyone should be able to share their problems with a trusted individual in an environment that is safe and free from judgement. I provide my clients with an environment free from judgement where you can let your guard down and just be you. Admitting that you need help doesn’t mean something is wrong with you, it means you are ready to grow and better understand yourself.
I believe the therapy process involves forming a relationship with someone who you can share your innermost thoughts and struggles with. Everyone should be able to share their problems with a trusted individual in an environment that is safe and free from judgement. I provide my clients with an environment free from judgement where you can let your guard down and just be you. Admitting that you need help doesn’t mean something is wrong with you, it means you are ready to grow and better understand yourself.
(251) 758-4974 x5412 View (251) 758-4974 x5412
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.