Compassion Focused Therapists in Alabama

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 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 Taylor Gibson, Counselor in Alabama
Taylor Gibson
Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 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 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 Darlene B Wareham - Breath Of Life Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
Darlene B Wareham - Breath Of Life Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BCPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairhope, AL 36532
Life is a journey and many times it is not easy. My goal and purpose in counseling is to help my clients through the challenges and crises of life. In those difficult times it is hard to be objective and make the best decisions for ourselves and others. The counseling process can provide new objective perspectives and understanding. I listen, understand, stay calm and am not judgmental. Since we are created spiritual as well as physical and psychological I believe including the spiritual component can bring resolution to the source of the issues and not just symptom reduction.
Life is a journey and many times it is not easy. My goal and purpose in counseling is to help my clients through the challenges and crises of life. In those difficult times it is hard to be objective and make the best decisions for ourselves and others. The counseling process can provide new objective perspectives and understanding. I listen, understand, stay calm and am not judgmental. Since we are created spiritual as well as physical and psychological I believe including the spiritual component can bring resolution to the source of the issues and not just symptom reduction.
(251) 270-2659 View (251) 270-2659
Photo of Brittany K Graham, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
Brittany K Graham
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairhope, AL 36532
You may be contacted by a representative of Graham Counseling Collaborative when you inquire about services.
You may be contacted by a representative of Graham Counseling Collaborative when you inquire about services.
(251) 325-5746 View (251) 325-5746
Photo of Frannie Hartley Horn, Counselor in Alabama
Frannie Hartley Horn
Counselor, MA, ALC, JD, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205
As humans, we navigate what can feel like an unsteady and confusing world. Life can be overwhelming. We may find ourselves in places where we need to make hard choices and manage difficult situations. As a counselor, my passion is for walking with clients through challenging times by using an integrated, person-centered therapeutic approach. Our process will be based on what works best for you, using techniques that include narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused brief therapy. I pride myself on building strong relationships based on trust as we progress through the growth and recovery process.
As humans, we navigate what can feel like an unsteady and confusing world. Life can be overwhelming. We may find ourselves in places where we need to make hard choices and manage difficult situations. As a counselor, my passion is for walking with clients through challenging times by using an integrated, person-centered therapeutic approach. Our process will be based on what works best for you, using techniques that include narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused brief therapy. I pride myself on building strong relationships based on trust as we progress through the growth and recovery process.
(205) 270-5302 View (205) 270-5302
Photo of Laura B Young, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
Laura B Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCH
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36117
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT. a Clinical Hypnotherapist, CCH... and a Manifestation Coach for Women I know these are difficult times. Here is help for you! My Personal and Professional Experiences come together to help Women overcome “feeling stuck and discouraged. “I am devoted to unraveling difficult situations allowing for meaningful change to occur. Together we can bring clarity to complicated situations, respond to loss and regret with compassion: and break the cycle of addictive behaviors. I welcome whatever you bring to the table. .Call (no text) FREE 20 min consult.334-277-7955.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT. a Clinical Hypnotherapist, CCH... and a Manifestation Coach for Women I know these are difficult times. Here is help for you! My Personal and Professional Experiences come together to help Women overcome “feeling stuck and discouraged. “I am devoted to unraveling difficult situations allowing for meaningful change to occur. Together we can bring clarity to complicated situations, respond to loss and regret with compassion: and break the cycle of addictive behaviors. I welcome whatever you bring to the table. .Call (no text) FREE 20 min consult.334-277-7955.
(334) 651-0938 View (334) 651-0938
Photo of Clarissa McReynolds, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Clarissa McReynolds
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atmore, AL 36502
Hey, I am Clarissa McReynolds, and I am a Nationally Certified Counselor, and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the States of Alabama and Mississippi. I am so excited to be a part of Healthy Minds Consulting team. I have been in the business of helping people find well- being for over 20 years. I enjoy working with adults struggling with life’s challenges, and coping with life’s struggles. I am passionate about working with our mature population struggling with phase of life issues, chronic medical issues, grief/loss, and aging issues.
Hey, I am Clarissa McReynolds, and I am a Nationally Certified Counselor, and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the States of Alabama and Mississippi. I am so excited to be a part of Healthy Minds Consulting team. I have been in the business of helping people find well- being for over 20 years. I enjoy working with adults struggling with life’s challenges, and coping with life’s struggles. I am passionate about working with our mature population struggling with phase of life issues, chronic medical issues, grief/loss, and aging issues.
(251) 333-2777 View (251) 333-2777
Photo of Sherri Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Sherri Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35806
Stressful, overwhelming times create a sense of powerlessness. With therapy, you can regain a sense of control and work through the emotional obstacles holding you back My purpose (Nia) is to help you navigate those difficult times. * Regain balance * Use anger constructively * Nurture yourself and others * Redraw your life's path * Learn to navigate past barriers
Stressful, overwhelming times create a sense of powerlessness. With therapy, you can regain a sense of control and work through the emotional obstacles holding you back My purpose (Nia) is to help you navigate those difficult times. * Regain balance * Use anger constructively * Nurture yourself and others * Redraw your life's path * Learn to navigate past barriers
(256) 973-9848 View (256) 973-9848
Photo of Huntsville Professional Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
Huntsville Professional Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, ALC, Interns
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35811  (Online Only)
We are an Alabama group practice with LMFTs, LPCs, and interns. We exclusively see clients using secure Telehealth therapy for your convenience, and do not have a physical location. Licensed therapists (Cindy, Sam, and Alicia) take BCBS of Alabama insurance. Interns see clients at a $25 rate per session. Cindy is a certified Sex Therapist, and Alicia is licensed to supervise MFT-I's, MFT-As and MFT-Is. Alicia is an EMDRIA approved EMDR trained therapist.
We are an Alabama group practice with LMFTs, LPCs, and interns. We exclusively see clients using secure Telehealth therapy for your convenience, and do not have a physical location. Licensed therapists (Cindy, Sam, and Alicia) take BCBS of Alabama insurance. Interns see clients at a $25 rate per session. Cindy is a certified Sex Therapist, and Alicia is licensed to supervise MFT-I's, MFT-As and MFT-Is. Alicia is an EMDRIA approved EMDR trained therapist.
(256) 945-0879 View (256) 945-0879
Photo of Courtney Burns, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Courtney Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35758
My primary focus is empowerment of others without the fear of judgment. I believe in practicing authenticity and transparency throughout my personal and professional life. My greatest passion is helping others find strength within themselves and help them gain confidence in many aspects of life and assist in overall mental health challenges. I have gained my experience and awareness through working in residential, school and outpatient settings. Life is hard and personal demands can be even harder, everyone needs assistance regardless of age, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. My practice is diverse, accepting, and welcoming to all.
My primary focus is empowerment of others without the fear of judgment. I believe in practicing authenticity and transparency throughout my personal and professional life. My greatest passion is helping others find strength within themselves and help them gain confidence in many aspects of life and assist in overall mental health challenges. I have gained my experience and awareness through working in residential, school and outpatient settings. Life is hard and personal demands can be even harder, everyone needs assistance regardless of age, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. My practice is diverse, accepting, and welcoming to all.
(256) 253-5973 View (256) 253-5973
Photo of Misti D Keen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Misti D Keen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenville, AL 36037
I have been a practicing counselor for the last 20 years and can honestly say I have enjoyed every single day. I am licensed in Alabama as well as Florida and have been certified as not only a Licensed Professional Counselor but also as a Certified Addictions Professional. I believe the challenges we face, although sometimes uncomfortable, teach us valuable lessons about who we are as people and allow us to tap into a strength we often do not realize we possess. Assisting my clients recognizing their strength is a privilege not taken lightly by me.
I have been a practicing counselor for the last 20 years and can honestly say I have enjoyed every single day. I am licensed in Alabama as well as Florida and have been certified as not only a Licensed Professional Counselor but also as a Certified Addictions Professional. I believe the challenges we face, although sometimes uncomfortable, teach us valuable lessons about who we are as people and allow us to tap into a strength we often do not realize we possess. Assisting my clients recognizing their strength is a privilege not taken lightly by me.
(334) 781-5231 View (334) 781-5231
Photo of Laura Westbrook, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Laura Westbrook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35244  (Online Only)
My favorite part about being a counselor is getting to know someone and hear their story. It takes a lot of vulnerability to be able to open up to someone else and I am always grateful that my clients trust me with the most intimate parts of their self. I work with a wide array of clients; from LGBTQ+ community members, survivors of trauma, those struggling with addiction and many other issues that affect an individuals quality of life. The ideal client for me is any individual willing to explore the therapeutic process in order to work towards building the life they desire.
My favorite part about being a counselor is getting to know someone and hear their story. It takes a lot of vulnerability to be able to open up to someone else and I am always grateful that my clients trust me with the most intimate parts of their self. I work with a wide array of clients; from LGBTQ+ community members, survivors of trauma, those struggling with addiction and many other issues that affect an individuals quality of life. The ideal client for me is any individual willing to explore the therapeutic process in order to work towards building the life they desire.
(205) 318-2587 View (205) 318-2587
Photo of Burgess Sports Counseling- Grace Burgess, Counselor in Alabama
Burgess Sports Counseling- Grace Burgess
Counselor, MEd, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hoover, AL 35244
Do you struggle with pressure, emotions, confidence, or anxiety? Are you stressed or overwhelmed trying to manage your time or responsibilities? Is defining yourself as a person without the title "athlete" involved in the description impossible for you? Are the nerves before a game beating you? When you make a mistake, do you find it hard to bounce back? Are you a leader having a hard time finding followers? Do you want to become more resilient and consistent with your thoughts and overall game play? Do you just want to take your game to the next level? Does your team have issues with chemistry, maintaining focus, or setting goals?
Do you struggle with pressure, emotions, confidence, or anxiety? Are you stressed or overwhelmed trying to manage your time or responsibilities? Is defining yourself as a person without the title "athlete" involved in the description impossible for you? Are the nerves before a game beating you? When you make a mistake, do you find it hard to bounce back? Are you a leader having a hard time finding followers? Do you want to become more resilient and consistent with your thoughts and overall game play? Do you just want to take your game to the next level? Does your team have issues with chemistry, maintaining focus, or setting goals?
(205) 898-6245 View (205) 898-6245
Photo of Individualized Pursuance of Hope, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Individualized Pursuance of Hope, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, CATP
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36106
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in a mantra of "Always Keep It Moving", never let anything or anyone stop you from achieving your goals/dreams. There may be some delays or setbacks and that doesn't mean you have to quit. Use those times to reorganize and restrategize. "Where there is life there is always hope." I provide counseling to individuals with various issues that include Stress, Anger, Self-Esteem, Depression, Anxiety, Life Skills, Communication, Crisis Intervention and whatever is unique for the individual.
I believe in a mantra of "Always Keep It Moving", never let anything or anyone stop you from achieving your goals/dreams. There may be some delays or setbacks and that doesn't mean you have to quit. Use those times to reorganize and restrategize. "Where there is life there is always hope." I provide counseling to individuals with various issues that include Stress, Anger, Self-Esteem, Depression, Anxiety, Life Skills, Communication, Crisis Intervention and whatever is unique for the individual.
(334) 398-6297 View (334) 398-6297
Photo of Brandy W Drake, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Brandy W Drake
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ADC
Verified Verified
Cullman, AL 35058
Currently accepting new clients. Brandy Drake is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Alabama. I am also a Alcohol Drug counselor. Are you feeling depressed and/ or anxious? My approach promotes self-awareness techniques to relieve difficult symptoms, quickly. My practice is enriched by studies in Mindfulness, CBT and behavioral modification. My specialization is working with client's to heal Anxiety, Trauma and Depressive symptoms.
Currently accepting new clients. Brandy Drake is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Alabama. I am also a Alcohol Drug counselor. Are you feeling depressed and/ or anxious? My approach promotes self-awareness techniques to relieve difficult symptoms, quickly. My practice is enriched by studies in Mindfulness, CBT and behavioral modification. My specialization is working with client's to heal Anxiety, Trauma and Depressive symptoms.
(256) 669-3089 View (256) 669-3089
Photo of Grace Mullins Self, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
Grace Mullins Self
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35216
I am licensed in both AL and TN. Together we will seek progress, not perfection. My therapy is relaxed and goal centered. I use humor when it allows, as laughter is good for the soul. We all have a longing for attention and responsiveness from our loved ones. When needs go unmet, we get stuck in patterns of automatic responses. I want client's to recognize needs, take responsibility, and learn how to better disrupt unhealthy patterns. My desire is to help you gain awareness and be more present with yourself and other people in your life.
I am licensed in both AL and TN. Together we will seek progress, not perfection. My therapy is relaxed and goal centered. I use humor when it allows, as laughter is good for the soul. We all have a longing for attention and responsiveness from our loved ones. When needs go unmet, we get stuck in patterns of automatic responses. I want client's to recognize needs, take responsibility, and learn how to better disrupt unhealthy patterns. My desire is to help you gain awareness and be more present with yourself and other people in your life.
(205) 828-4854 View (205) 828-4854
Photo of Greyhawk Counseling Services , Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
Greyhawk Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Daphne, AL 36526
Not taking new clients currently............... If you are looking for help understanding and reducing your Depression and Anxiety, I am a very experienced Cognitive Behavioral Therapist with 15 years of specializing in working with people who suffer from these. If you come to my office, I will help you understand why you are anxious or depressed and walk you through in plain and conversational steps how to reduce your symptoms and be free of these powerful and painful afflictions. My office is relaxed and comfortable and I make it a point to try to make psychotherapy a normal experience.
Not taking new clients currently............... If you are looking for help understanding and reducing your Depression and Anxiety, I am a very experienced Cognitive Behavioral Therapist with 15 years of specializing in working with people who suffer from these. If you come to my office, I will help you understand why you are anxious or depressed and walk you through in plain and conversational steps how to reduce your symptoms and be free of these powerful and painful afflictions. My office is relaxed and comfortable and I make it a point to try to make psychotherapy a normal experience.
(251) 309-7488 View (251) 309-7488

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.