Compassion Focused Therapists in Stoneville, NC

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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Megan Manuel Cole, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Manuel Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, NC 27025  (Online Only)
Like the title of one of my favorite songs, I believe that life is a "Bittersweet Symphony." Sometimes, we just need some extra help through the bitter parts of life- and that's where I come in! I offer a safe, judgement-free space to share what is heavy on your mind and heart, and help you find hope and healing through tapping into your own strengths. I believe that you deserve someone to listen to you, encourage you, and help you find healthy ways to cope with the bitter things that pop up in life, so you can savor the sweet things all the more. I am open-minded, open-hearted, and eager to work with you to help you feel better.
Like the title of one of my favorite songs, I believe that life is a "Bittersweet Symphony." Sometimes, we just need some extra help through the bitter parts of life- and that's where I come in! I offer a safe, judgement-free space to share what is heavy on your mind and heart, and help you find hope and healing through tapping into your own strengths. I believe that you deserve someone to listen to you, encourage you, and help you find healthy ways to cope with the bitter things that pop up in life, so you can savor the sweet things all the more. I am open-minded, open-hearted, and eager to work with you to help you feel better.
(336) 975-5715 View (336) 975-5715
Photo of Toni Bethea-Byrd, LCMHC
Toni Bethea-Byrd
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Eden, NC 27288  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Toni Bethea-Byrd and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. During the last 14 years, I have worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, and family relations issues. I combine different therapeutic approaches based on the client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, and solution-focused therapy. I would be a good match for anyone interested in a counselor who provides a safe space for all individuals.
Hello! My name is Toni Bethea-Byrd and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. During the last 14 years, I have worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, and family relations issues. I combine different therapeutic approaches based on the client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, and solution-focused therapy. I would be a good match for anyone interested in a counselor who provides a safe space for all individuals.
(336) 441-4957 View (336) 441-4957
Photo of Kristi Brim Rakes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristi Brim Rakes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eden, NC 27288  (Online Only)
Telehealth ONLY. Accepting clients in NC, SC and VA. Life is hard and everyone deserves to have an outlet to talk about their feelings. I approach my practice with compassion, empathy and nonjudgmental understanding. With my holistic mindset, I seek to help people navigate stress, mental health issues and "life" in general. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have been working in the field of mental health for 15 years. I have extensive training in mental health diagnosis, end of life care, and Women's issues. I am also certified in Trauma Focused CBT.
Telehealth ONLY. Accepting clients in NC, SC and VA. Life is hard and everyone deserves to have an outlet to talk about their feelings. I approach my practice with compassion, empathy and nonjudgmental understanding. With my holistic mindset, I seek to help people navigate stress, mental health issues and "life" in general. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have been working in the field of mental health for 15 years. I have extensive training in mental health diagnosis, end of life care, and Women's issues. I am also certified in Trauma Focused CBT.
(336) 891-9646 View (336) 891-9646
Photo of Tania Lisa Majette - Compassion Health Care, Inc, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Compassion Health Care, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Eden, NC 27288
Waitlist for new clients
Life is a course of obstacles that requires a course of healing. Where are you in your healing journey? Perhaps you’re in the beginning, middle, or waver between different stages leaving you feeling stuck. How often are you comfortable in sharing your adversities and how they impact you? Doing this can be very intimidating due to fear of judgment and other vulnerabilities. Taking the first step in seeking help is a significant act of bravery. Our hope is that you allow Compassion Healthcare, Inc. to join you in your courageous healing process.
Life is a course of obstacles that requires a course of healing. Where are you in your healing journey? Perhaps you’re in the beginning, middle, or waver between different stages leaving you feeling stuck. How often are you comfortable in sharing your adversities and how they impact you? Doing this can be very intimidating due to fear of judgment and other vulnerabilities. Taking the first step in seeking help is a significant act of bravery. Our hope is that you allow Compassion Healthcare, Inc. to join you in your courageous healing process.
(336) 864-2795 View (336) 864-2795
Photo of Charlotte Sime, LCMHC, LCASA, CIMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlotte Sime
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA, CIMHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Madison, NC 27025  (Online Only)
The ideal client is one who is curious and willing to explore new and different options in their life. Their issues could be life stressors, poor relationships, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma, substance use, codependency, setting boundaries, mood disorders, anger management, bereavement, spiritual issues, depression, anxious, parenting issues, needing coping skills, ADHD, adjusting to life changes, poor sleep habits, help setting self-care goals, feeling stuck in life, sad or lost. The client may simply want someone to talk with, to feel heard, to know they're not alone and help take back control in their life.
The ideal client is one who is curious and willing to explore new and different options in their life. Their issues could be life stressors, poor relationships, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma, substance use, codependency, setting boundaries, mood disorders, anger management, bereavement, spiritual issues, depression, anxious, parenting issues, needing coping skills, ADHD, adjusting to life changes, poor sleep habits, help setting self-care goals, feeling stuck in life, sad or lost. The client may simply want someone to talk with, to feel heard, to know they're not alone and help take back control in their life.
(919) 348-2932 View (919) 348-2932

Online Therapists

Photo of Leah Poole, MSW, LCSWA, CTP
Leah Poole
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
Waitlist for new clients
I use a range of therapeutic techniques from positive psychology, strengths- based approaches, EMDR, CBT, ACT, somatic healing, Internal Family Systems, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
I provide a culturally competent, anti - racist, LGBTQ+ affirming space. I have expertise in working with people who want support with healthy sexuality, trauma, self- esteem issues, depression, grief, and anxiety. I feel comfortable working with teens and adults, and have the most experience working with female identified individuals.
I use a range of therapeutic techniques from positive psychology, strengths- based approaches, EMDR, CBT, ACT, somatic healing, Internal Family Systems, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
I provide a culturally competent, anti - racist, LGBTQ+ affirming space. I have expertise in working with people who want support with healthy sexuality, trauma, self- esteem issues, depression, grief, and anxiety. I feel comfortable working with teens and adults, and have the most experience working with female identified individuals.
(984) 314-3512 View (984) 314-3512
Photo of Nina Hightower, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nina Hightower
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703  (Online Only)
As a behavioral health provider, my goal is to support you as you deal with challenges you are facing. I treat adults who suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma. I also work with seniors and individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. PLEASE NOTE THAT I AM ONLY OFFERING TELEHEALTH SERVICES AT THIS TIME. Please allow me to help you manage anxiety and stress through this difficult time.
As a behavioral health provider, my goal is to support you as you deal with challenges you are facing. I treat adults who suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma. I also work with seniors and individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. PLEASE NOTE THAT I AM ONLY OFFERING TELEHEALTH SERVICES AT THIS TIME. Please allow me to help you manage anxiety and stress through this difficult time.
(984) 459-7285 View (984) 459-7285
Photo of Sara Forcella, MA-WGS, MSW, LCSW, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Forcella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA-WGS, MSW, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Your past continues to resurface, impacting your present relationships. You feel like you can't trust yourself. You've attempted to push it aside or forget about it entirely, but that's no longer working. You're ready to move forward, but you're trapped by thoughts, emotions and somatic experiences. I've got you! I'm passionate about helping clients find relief from anxiety & reconnect with their authentic selves after trauma. With a decade of experience working with trauma, I specialize in treating adults with a history of complex and relational trauma. I especially enjoy working with women and adult children of EIPs.
Your past continues to resurface, impacting your present relationships. You feel like you can't trust yourself. You've attempted to push it aside or forget about it entirely, but that's no longer working. You're ready to move forward, but you're trapped by thoughts, emotions and somatic experiences. I've got you! I'm passionate about helping clients find relief from anxiety & reconnect with their authentic selves after trauma. With a decade of experience working with trauma, I specialize in treating adults with a history of complex and relational trauma. I especially enjoy working with women and adult children of EIPs.
(984) 205-7474 View (984) 205-7474
Photo of Cheryl Cohen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Congratulations! You have chosen to seek help. It is important to find a therapist you can build a relationship with. I am described as an interactive, insightful, intuitive, genuine, non-judgemental therapist. My expertise comes from a unique balance of professional and personal training and experience. I have a passion for what I do and love coming to work everyday. I would love to join you in getting where you want to be. I am a cognitive behavioral therapist with a family systems perspective. I add compassion-focused, culturally sensitive, attachment-based therapy with a solution focus, to fit each person's individuality.
Congratulations! You have chosen to seek help. It is important to find a therapist you can build a relationship with. I am described as an interactive, insightful, intuitive, genuine, non-judgemental therapist. My expertise comes from a unique balance of professional and personal training and experience. I have a passion for what I do and love coming to work everyday. I would love to join you in getting where you want to be. I am a cognitive behavioral therapist with a family systems perspective. I add compassion-focused, culturally sensitive, attachment-based therapy with a solution focus, to fit each person's individuality.
(919) 572-0000 View (919) 572-0000
Photo of Amber Rae Apostol, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber Rae Apostol
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Do you feel like something is holding you back from living your best life? As a licensed therapist, I’ve always been passionate about helping others. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, or simply feeling stuck in your current situation, I'm here to provide support and guidance to help you overcome these challenges. I specialize in using evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help my clients achieve their goals.
Accepting new clients! Do you feel like something is holding you back from living your best life? As a licensed therapist, I’ve always been passionate about helping others. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, or simply feeling stuck in your current situation, I'm here to provide support and guidance to help you overcome these challenges. I specialize in using evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help my clients achieve their goals.
(919) 364-5450 View (919) 364-5450
Photo of LaToyia Miller - Safe Haven Lighthouse Counseling, PLLC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Safe Haven Lighthouse Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27127  (Online Only)
My areas of competence include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT), Compassion Focused, Culturally Sensitive, Eclectic Approach, Emotionally Focused, Interpersonal, Interventions, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, Multicultural Informed/Focused, Strength Based, Trauma Informed and Person-Centered.
It is my ethical and moral duty to provide you with services that are person centered and goal oriented. We work as a team together. Therefore, fostering a positive and thriving therapeutic relationship. I received my MS in Rehabilitation Counseling, in May 2007, from Winston-Salem State University in North Carolina and my BA degree in Psychology in May 2004 from Bennett College for Women. I am a fully Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). I have over 19 years of experience in mental health and have been licensed as a mental health counselor for 10 years.
My areas of competence include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT), Compassion Focused, Culturally Sensitive, Eclectic Approach, Emotionally Focused, Interpersonal, Interventions, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, Multicultural Informed/Focused, Strength Based, Trauma Informed and Person-Centered.
It is my ethical and moral duty to provide you with services that are person centered and goal oriented. We work as a team together. Therefore, fostering a positive and thriving therapeutic relationship. I received my MS in Rehabilitation Counseling, in May 2007, from Winston-Salem State University in North Carolina and my BA degree in Psychology in May 2004 from Bennett College for Women. I am a fully Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). I have over 19 years of experience in mental health and have been licensed as a mental health counselor for 10 years.
(336) 850-6401 View (336) 850-6401
Photo of Kristyn Martinez, LCMHC
Kristyn Martinez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601  (Online Only)
Kristyn Martinez is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over 6 years of professional experience. She specializes in working with all adults looking to focus on identifying, healing, and learning to cope with anxiety, depression, OCD, stressors in life, work-life balancing, body image, or single motherhood. Kristyn also specializes in helping clients learn to be successful with bipolar, psychosis, dissociative, and mood disorders. In addition, she is a military spouse with first-hand knowledge of life's many stressors.
Kristyn Martinez is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over 6 years of professional experience. She specializes in working with all adults looking to focus on identifying, healing, and learning to cope with anxiety, depression, OCD, stressors in life, work-life balancing, body image, or single motherhood. Kristyn also specializes in helping clients learn to be successful with bipolar, psychosis, dissociative, and mood disorders. In addition, she is a military spouse with first-hand knowledge of life's many stressors.
(984) 205-2699 View (984) 205-2699
Photo of Jenna Daley, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Daley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
I earned my undergraduate degree from University of Southern Maine and went on to receive my Masters of Social Work degree from University of Southern Maine. I have worked in various therapeutic settings such as group homes, a psychiatric hospital, community mental health center and most recently been in private practice for the past 11 years within the Lake Norman community. I opened Peaceful Path Counseling, PLLC in 2021.
I earned my undergraduate degree from University of Southern Maine and went on to receive my Masters of Social Work degree from University of Southern Maine. I have worked in various therapeutic settings such as group homes, a psychiatric hospital, community mental health center and most recently been in private practice for the past 11 years within the Lake Norman community. I opened Peaceful Path Counseling, PLLC in 2021.
(980) 372-4920 View (980) 372-4920
Photo of Elizabeth Ishola, MS,  NCC, BC-TMH, LCMHCA, Counselor
Elizabeth Ishola
Counselor, MS, NCC, BC-TMH, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
Elizabeth is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. She operates from both a strengths-based approach and Person-Centered lens and draws upon practices from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems Therapy. She serves as an agent of change for her clients, helping to encourage and challenge them along their personal journeys. Elizabeth enjoys working with individuals who are in a space where they are becoming more autonomous and works to help them along their journey through life transitions, managing stress, anxiety, and relational issues.
Elizabeth is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. She operates from both a strengths-based approach and Person-Centered lens and draws upon practices from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems Therapy. She serves as an agent of change for her clients, helping to encourage and challenge them along their personal journeys. Elizabeth enjoys working with individuals who are in a space where they are becoming more autonomous and works to help them along their journey through life transitions, managing stress, anxiety, and relational issues.
(919) 873-4634 View (919) 873-4634
Photo of Hannah Jeter, LCMHC, Counselor
Hannah Jeter
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705  (Online Only)
Going to therapy for the first time or finding a new therapist can feel scary. Each of us faces challenges, life transitions, and pain - coping with that stress on our own eventually takes its toll. Having a trusted therapist to turn to in our struggle can make challenges easier to navigate and ultimately lead to lasting and positive change. Though significant portion of my work is with gifted individuals, I also work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship difficulties, and life transitions.
Going to therapy for the first time or finding a new therapist can feel scary. Each of us faces challenges, life transitions, and pain - coping with that stress on our own eventually takes its toll. Having a trusted therapist to turn to in our struggle can make challenges easier to navigate and ultimately lead to lasting and positive change. Though significant portion of my work is with gifted individuals, I also work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship difficulties, and life transitions.
(984) 370-9267 View (984) 370-9267
Photo of DeJuan J. Lundy - DeJuan J. Lundy, Crossroads Therapeutic Services, PhD, LCMHCS , LCAS , CLC
DeJuan J. Lundy, Crossroads Therapeutic Services
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHCS , LCAS , CLC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703
DeJuan J. Lundy is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS), Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS), and a Certified Life Coach (CLC) with over 18 years of experience working with diverse populations, ages as well as a wide range of diagnoses and disorders. She specializes in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, PTSD, Addiction, Substance Abuse, Trauma, Anger Management, Stress Management, and Mood Disorders.
DeJuan J. Lundy is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS), Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS), and a Certified Life Coach (CLC) with over 18 years of experience working with diverse populations, ages as well as a wide range of diagnoses and disorders. She specializes in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, PTSD, Addiction, Substance Abuse, Trauma, Anger Management, Stress Management, and Mood Disorders.
(919) 701-4816 View (919) 701-4816
Photo of Melissa Leonhardt, MA, NCC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Leonhardt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conover, NC 28613  (Online Only)
I welcome clients of all genders. I respect that gender identity may not be the central issue, I also help you work on things such as anxiety and depression. I welcome clients who are working to better understand their gender identity or those seeking gender transition. I can help with related to gender, including social isolation and family issues. If transitioning, I provide therapy for hormone treatment and gender transition-related surgeries. I also provide therapy for Depression and Anxiety. Please email- brandnewdaycounseling@gmail.com
I welcome clients of all genders. I respect that gender identity may not be the central issue, I also help you work on things such as anxiety and depression. I welcome clients who are working to better understand their gender identity or those seeking gender transition. I can help with related to gender, including social isolation and family issues. If transitioning, I provide therapy for hormone treatment and gender transition-related surgeries. I also provide therapy for Depression and Anxiety. Please email- brandnewdaycounseling@gmail.com
(828) 266-0467 View (828) 266-0467
Photo of Kristel Byrd, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristel Byrd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27520  (Online Only)
Do you experience the effects of low self-esteem, trauma, identity issues, grief, and personal growth? I support my clients through significant life transitions like marriage and divorce, common relationship issues, complexities of parenting, and empower you during your transition to adulthood. We can openly and safely explore your spirituality, identity, and sexuality. Together, we'll embark on a journey of profound change and lasting growth toward elevated hope, self-esteem, self-compassion, and self-efficacy while challenging negative thinking.
Do you experience the effects of low self-esteem, trauma, identity issues, grief, and personal growth? I support my clients through significant life transitions like marriage and divorce, common relationship issues, complexities of parenting, and empower you during your transition to adulthood. We can openly and safely explore your spirituality, identity, and sexuality. Together, we'll embark on a journey of profound change and lasting growth toward elevated hope, self-esteem, self-compassion, and self-efficacy while challenging negative thinking.
(984) 231-8658 View (984) 231-8658
Photo of Alixandra Ross, LCMHCA, Counselor
Alixandra Ross
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Hello! I'm Alixandra, a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with an M.A. from Wake Forest University ('23). My passion lies in providing compassionate support to teens and adults under 45 facing challenges including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidality BPD, and life adjustments. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard and supported as they navigate their unique journeys toward balance and self-empowerment. I tailor my approach to meet each client where they are, offering practical skills and genuine empathy. My goal is to empower others to embrace their authentic selves.
Hello! I'm Alixandra, a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with an M.A. from Wake Forest University ('23). My passion lies in providing compassionate support to teens and adults under 45 facing challenges including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidality BPD, and life adjustments. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard and supported as they navigate their unique journeys toward balance and self-empowerment. I tailor my approach to meet each client where they are, offering practical skills and genuine empathy. My goal is to empower others to embrace their authentic selves.
(984) 265-7730 x102 View (984) 265-7730 x102
Photo of Sierra Summerville, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sierra Summerville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
It is important for you to find a therapist you feel comfortable with. I love working with individuals who are interested in creating positive changes. My primary populations are emerging and young adults. I seek to provide a space of hope, non-judgment, and authenticity. I support individuals navigating a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, and relationships. I am passionate about human rights, social justice, reproductive rights, and I am an LGBTQI+ ally. Through holistic person-centered empowerment, the individuals I work with take steps to grow, heal, and create a life worth living.
It is important for you to find a therapist you feel comfortable with. I love working with individuals who are interested in creating positive changes. My primary populations are emerging and young adults. I seek to provide a space of hope, non-judgment, and authenticity. I support individuals navigating a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, and relationships. I am passionate about human rights, social justice, reproductive rights, and I am an LGBTQI+ ally. Through holistic person-centered empowerment, the individuals I work with take steps to grow, heal, and create a life worth living.
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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.