There are no results for therapists in Rye Brook

Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in New York below.

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Herz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rye Brook, NY
Jennifer Herz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarsdale, NY 10530  (Online Only)
Hello! Congrats on taking the first step in your therapeutic journey. By coming to this page, you’ve already got one foot in the door. Picking a therapist can be a daunting task, so I’ll give you the lowdown on how I like to run things in the therapy room. I can promise you that I will listen with a non-judgmental, compassionate ear, while encouraging you to be honest and think freely. However, I don’t shy away from being candid when I believe it will assist you in reaching your goals. We will work together to develop skills and strategies that will enable you to become your best self.
Hello! Congrats on taking the first step in your therapeutic journey. By coming to this page, you’ve already got one foot in the door. Picking a therapist can be a daunting task, so I’ll give you the lowdown on how I like to run things in the therapy room. I can promise you that I will listen with a non-judgmental, compassionate ear, while encouraging you to be honest and think freely. However, I don’t shy away from being candid when I believe it will assist you in reaching your goals. We will work together to develop skills and strategies that will enable you to become your best self.
(914) 292-7857 View (914) 292-7857
Photo of Sarrah Bronson, Psychologist in Rye Brook, NY
Sarrah Bronson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10605
Do you want to find your way through this crisis and come out stronger and even more empowered? It is possible!!! Quarantined and in "social isolation" we can go deeper within (even if we didn't want to.) We can use this opportunity to look inside and discover inner issues that keep us from being who we really are, and find the inner gifts and resources we didn't know we had, to go to the next level of our more empowered life. We can learn how to adapt successfully.
Do you want to find your way through this crisis and come out stronger and even more empowered? It is possible!!! Quarantined and in "social isolation" we can go deeper within (even if we didn't want to.) We can use this opportunity to look inside and discover inner issues that keep us from being who we really are, and find the inner gifts and resources we didn't know we had, to go to the next level of our more empowered life. We can learn how to adapt successfully.
(646) 351-1635 View (646) 351-1635

Online Therapists

Photo of Heather Simonson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rye Brook, NY
Heather Simonson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, CSE, ERYT, RPYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lindenhurst, NY 11757
Need a positive change but unsure how to make that happen? Do you want support in strengthening your relationship to deepen your connection and intimacy? Or perhaps your child needs another trusted adult to talk to. No matter the challenge, having the guidance you need enables YOU to make the best choices about the direction of your counseling experience and your life. The benefit of awareness and self-discovery empowers you to transform obstacles to optimum health and happiness. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sexuality Educator, Reiki Master and Registered Yoga Teacher, specializing in kids and pre/postnatal.
Need a positive change but unsure how to make that happen? Do you want support in strengthening your relationship to deepen your connection and intimacy? Or perhaps your child needs another trusted adult to talk to. No matter the challenge, having the guidance you need enables YOU to make the best choices about the direction of your counseling experience and your life. The benefit of awareness and self-discovery empowers you to transform obstacles to optimum health and happiness. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sexuality Educator, Reiki Master and Registered Yoga Teacher, specializing in kids and pre/postnatal.
(631) 593-0762 View (631) 593-0762
Photo of Bonnie Ann Spence, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rye Brook, NY
Bonnie Ann Spence
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, CAC
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11530  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a caring straight shooting therapist best for the person who wants direction and honesty to effect quick change in themselves and their lives. I have a long history of helping people who are struggling with various issues in life. My experience is extremely diversified and seasoned. My abilities come from lots of education and an abundance of my own life experience. I utilize various modalities of treatment and integrate whatever will work best for my patients. I will help you to effect positive changes in your life if you are willing to work and accept change. I am a strong believer in God and I utilize spiritual direction .
I am a caring straight shooting therapist best for the person who wants direction and honesty to effect quick change in themselves and their lives. I have a long history of helping people who are struggling with various issues in life. My experience is extremely diversified and seasoned. My abilities come from lots of education and an abundance of my own life experience. I utilize various modalities of treatment and integrate whatever will work best for my patients. I will help you to effect positive changes in your life if you are willing to work and accept change. I am a strong believer in God and I utilize spiritual direction .
(516) 518-5188 View (516) 518-5188
Photo of Dr. Angelo Pezzote, Counselor in Rye Brook, NY
Dr. Angelo Pezzote
Counselor, DPharm, MA, BCPP, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10036  (Online Only)
SOMETHING MISSING? HELP FINDING IT. You don't have to suffer alone. Secrets and isolation are not the answer. I can be there for you, wherever you are. I provide safe, discreet, personalized care via video chat. My goal is to deliver the results you want. Benefits are more: health, happiness, love, confidence, peace & success. I work with all people, including affirmation of diversity: LGBTQ2IA+, Hispanics, Latinos, Blacks, Native Americans, Asians, other People of Color, and Multiculturalism. Triumph over your challenges: Relationships, Trauma, Depression, Panic/Anxiety, Addictions, Sexuality, Gender, Men's Issues, Peyronie's.
SOMETHING MISSING? HELP FINDING IT. You don't have to suffer alone. Secrets and isolation are not the answer. I can be there for you, wherever you are. I provide safe, discreet, personalized care via video chat. My goal is to deliver the results you want. Benefits are more: health, happiness, love, confidence, peace & success. I work with all people, including affirmation of diversity: LGBTQ2IA+, Hispanics, Latinos, Blacks, Native Americans, Asians, other People of Color, and Multiculturalism. Triumph over your challenges: Relationships, Trauma, Depression, Panic/Anxiety, Addictions, Sexuality, Gender, Men's Issues, Peyronie's.
(917) 740-1937 View (917) 740-1937
Photo of Focused2Live Health, Wellness and Counseling , Counselor in Rye Brook, NY
Focused2Live Health, Wellness and Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, MA, EMDR, Biofeed, Neuro
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
You may have said: What direction am I headed? Am I happy? Am I the best version of Me? Did I loose track of my goals? Am I feeling confused and lost? Looking at, the old saying of: “when life gives you lemons make lemonade,” is all good in theory, but how about if you don’t know how to make lemonade or even worse, you don’t even like lemonade. Sometimes on this journey called life, we don’t know which road to follow or cannot even see the road ahead. Help me, help you, in facing the obstacles of life that appear overwhelming or difficult. You do not have to face them alone, allow me to be present and offer you valuable life tools
You may have said: What direction am I headed? Am I happy? Am I the best version of Me? Did I loose track of my goals? Am I feeling confused and lost? Looking at, the old saying of: “when life gives you lemons make lemonade,” is all good in theory, but how about if you don’t know how to make lemonade or even worse, you don’t even like lemonade. Sometimes on this journey called life, we don’t know which road to follow or cannot even see the road ahead. Help me, help you, in facing the obstacles of life that appear overwhelming or difficult. You do not have to face them alone, allow me to be present and offer you valuable life tools
(347) 408-2429 View (347) 408-2429
Photo of Visiting Counselors of NY - Neurodiversity Program, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rye Brook, NY
Visiting Counselors of NY - Neurodiversity Program
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
VCNY Neurodiversity Program offers in-home and telehealth counseling for adults (21+) with Neurodevelopmental disorders: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Developmental Disability Disorders, ADHD, Epilepsy, seizure disorders, learning disabilities, and Traumatic Brain Injury. Our Licensed Clinical Social Workers use person-first approaches and evidence-based interventions to address co-occurring mental health symptoms like depression, anxiety, mood impairments, trauma, and life stressors such as grief, loss, job, and relationship issues. Quality care tailored to your needs.
VCNY Neurodiversity Program offers in-home and telehealth counseling for adults (21+) with Neurodevelopmental disorders: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Developmental Disability Disorders, ADHD, Epilepsy, seizure disorders, learning disabilities, and Traumatic Brain Injury. Our Licensed Clinical Social Workers use person-first approaches and evidence-based interventions to address co-occurring mental health symptoms like depression, anxiety, mood impairments, trauma, and life stressors such as grief, loss, job, and relationship issues. Quality care tailored to your needs.
(631) 919-4987 x2 View (631) 919-4987 x2
Photo of Adaria Campbell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Rye Brook, NY
Adaria Campbell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375
If you are an individual or family who is looking to get help with therapy services that meets your emotional needs, it is likely then I am the person that you can speak to about problems related to any cognitive challenges, you may be experiencing. What I do as a therapist, is provide services to families who are in need of therapy support. Some immediate issuses that families face are stress and anxiety. It is evident that many people who struggle with working through emotions alone, are often left feeling hopeless. The question sometimes is, what can I do to make my families feel better? which is what I always look forward to!
If you are an individual or family who is looking to get help with therapy services that meets your emotional needs, it is likely then I am the person that you can speak to about problems related to any cognitive challenges, you may be experiencing. What I do as a therapist, is provide services to families who are in need of therapy support. Some immediate issuses that families face are stress and anxiety. It is evident that many people who struggle with working through emotions alone, are often left feeling hopeless. The question sometimes is, what can I do to make my families feel better? which is what I always look forward to!
(347) 704-0723 View (347) 704-0723
Photo of At Home Psychedelic Therapy (Instant Insurance Verification), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rye Brook, NY
At Home Psychedelic Therapy (Instant Insurance Verification)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MD, PhD, LCSW, PDOC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Feya Health is a woman-owned, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy group practice, featured on MTV. Our Integrative approach helps clients address their self-destructive patterns by getting to the core and root of their issues. The result is a drastic reduction in the initial presenting symptoms over a short period of time. We offer a comprehensive, integrative & customizable approach to the Ketamine & Oxytocin Therapy Process and specialize in EMDR, PTSD, CPTSD, human optimization and Pharmaceutical Medication withdrawal.
Feya Health is a woman-owned, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy group practice, featured on MTV. Our Integrative approach helps clients address their self-destructive patterns by getting to the core and root of their issues. The result is a drastic reduction in the initial presenting symptoms over a short period of time. We offer a comprehensive, integrative & customizable approach to the Ketamine & Oxytocin Therapy Process and specialize in EMDR, PTSD, CPTSD, human optimization and Pharmaceutical Medication withdrawal.
(917) 789-1484 View (917) 789-1484
Photo of Footprints Mental Health Counseling , Pre-Licensed Professional in Rye Brook, NY
Footprints Mental Health Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(718) 550-5392 View (718) 550-5392
Photo of Arielle Gruber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rye Brook, NY
Arielle Gruber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
I am a licensed psychotherapist trained in several evidence based integrative approaches. I assist my clients in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, low self esteem, LGBTQ, codependency, family conflicts, and existential life issues. I provide supportive, compassionate, and mindful psychotherapy for individuals seeking to improve their well-being while cultivating skills that lead to a greater sense of purpose and self acceptance. My services are suitable for those feeling overwhelmed by their thoughts, emotions and general life experiences.
I am a licensed psychotherapist trained in several evidence based integrative approaches. I assist my clients in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, low self esteem, LGBTQ, codependency, family conflicts, and existential life issues. I provide supportive, compassionate, and mindful psychotherapy for individuals seeking to improve their well-being while cultivating skills that lead to a greater sense of purpose and self acceptance. My services are suitable for those feeling overwhelmed by their thoughts, emotions and general life experiences.
(347) 442-7457 View (347) 442-7457
Photo of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (Instant Insurance Verification), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rye Brook, NY
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (Instant Insurance Verification)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MD, LCSW, PhD, PDOC, CPC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Feya Health is a woman-owned, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy group practice, featured on MTV. Our Integrative approach helps clients address their self-destructive patterns by getting to the core and root of their issues. The result is a drastic reduction in the initial presenting symptoms over a short period of time. We offer a comprehensive, integrative & customizable approach to the Ketamine & Oxytocin Therapy Process and specialize in PTSD, CPTSD, EMDR, human optimization and Pharmaceutical Medication withdrawal.
Feya Health is a woman-owned, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy group practice, featured on MTV. Our Integrative approach helps clients address their self-destructive patterns by getting to the core and root of their issues. The result is a drastic reduction in the initial presenting symptoms over a short period of time. We offer a comprehensive, integrative & customizable approach to the Ketamine & Oxytocin Therapy Process and specialize in PTSD, CPTSD, EMDR, human optimization and Pharmaceutical Medication withdrawal.
(718) 865-3750 View (718) 865-3750
Photo of Tanya Freeman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rye Brook, NY
Tanya Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MDR, MPH
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you on a journey towards greater self-awareness and fulfillment? Do you long for more meaningful and stronger connections? No matter what brings you to therapy- be it challenges with self-esteem, navigating stress, battling anxiety or depression, healing from trauma, addressing relationship dilemmas, workplace struggles, or simply the pursuit of happiness- I am here to support you. Together, we will identify the barriers that stand in your path and cultivate strategies and skills to better manage and overcome. My priority is establish a strong foundation of trust so you feel safe as we work to create the life you dream of.
Are you on a journey towards greater self-awareness and fulfillment? Do you long for more meaningful and stronger connections? No matter what brings you to therapy- be it challenges with self-esteem, navigating stress, battling anxiety or depression, healing from trauma, addressing relationship dilemmas, workplace struggles, or simply the pursuit of happiness- I am here to support you. Together, we will identify the barriers that stand in your path and cultivate strategies and skills to better manage and overcome. My priority is establish a strong foundation of trust so you feel safe as we work to create the life you dream of.
(929) 930-6038 View (929) 930-6038
Photo of Deborah Barbiere, Psychologist in Rye Brook, NY
Deborah Barbiere
Psychologist, PsyD, LAC, MSTOM
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
I am a Clinical Psychologist & Licensed Acupuncturist providing Psychotherapy, Bio/Neurofeedback, Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine & Herbal Interventions. I work extensively with individuals suffering from stress-related mental and physical conditions (for example, headache, gastro-intestinal disorders, hypertension, insomnia, depression, anxiety, memory/concentration problems). Treatment involves examination of psychological/emotional issues as they are intertwined with one's physical/somatic self, helping individuals to regulate unhealthy emotional and physical responses. Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine may be utilized as an alternative or supplemental means of promoting MindBody balance. These modalities are also highly effective for optimal performance training, smoking cessation, weight reduction, etc.
I am a Clinical Psychologist & Licensed Acupuncturist providing Psychotherapy, Bio/Neurofeedback, Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine & Herbal Interventions. I work extensively with individuals suffering from stress-related mental and physical conditions (for example, headache, gastro-intestinal disorders, hypertension, insomnia, depression, anxiety, memory/concentration problems). Treatment involves examination of psychological/emotional issues as they are intertwined with one's physical/somatic self, helping individuals to regulate unhealthy emotional and physical responses. Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine may be utilized as an alternative or supplemental means of promoting MindBody balance. These modalities are also highly effective for optimal performance training, smoking cessation, weight reduction, etc.
(646) 395-1097 View (646) 395-1097
Photo of Megan Stocker Headley, Counselor in Rye Brook, NY
Megan Stocker Headley
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Do you feel chronically disconnected or stuck in unhelpful patterns despite "knowing better"? This misalignment might be affecting your physical health, your relationships, your sense of self, and your visions for the future. While many of the strategies you relied upon in early life were both necessary and adaptive, they can also become what hold you back later in life. What if we explore some of your origin stories and update those defaults to better reflect who you are, instead of who you believed you had to be? What if we deepen your self-belonging, thereby strengthening your capacity to connect more effortlessly with others?
Do you feel chronically disconnected or stuck in unhelpful patterns despite "knowing better"? This misalignment might be affecting your physical health, your relationships, your sense of self, and your visions for the future. While many of the strategies you relied upon in early life were both necessary and adaptive, they can also become what hold you back later in life. What if we explore some of your origin stories and update those defaults to better reflect who you are, instead of who you believed you had to be? What if we deepen your self-belonging, thereby strengthening your capacity to connect more effortlessly with others?
(434) 732-2230 View (434) 732-2230
Photo of Melinda Brown Magnani, Pre-Licensed Professional in Rye Brook, NY
Melinda Brown Magnani
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Yonkers, NY 10701  (Online Only)
Anxiety can make us feel stuck and have feelings of fear and uncertainty that interfere with our everyday activities, but there is hope. I believe one of the bravest things you can do is to begin to understand your own story. You deserve a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Whether you struggle with anxiety or depression, feel overwhelmed with life or life choices, or just need to talk, my role as a mental health counselor is to help you improve your mental health and find a better balance in your life. I want to help you achieve whatever solutions and life changes you are looking for.
Anxiety can make us feel stuck and have feelings of fear and uncertainty that interfere with our everyday activities, but there is hope. I believe one of the bravest things you can do is to begin to understand your own story. You deserve a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Whether you struggle with anxiety or depression, feel overwhelmed with life or life choices, or just need to talk, my role as a mental health counselor is to help you improve your mental health and find a better balance in your life. I want to help you achieve whatever solutions and life changes you are looking for.
(914) 354-3924 View (914) 354-3924
Photo of Annie Jan, Mental Health Counselor in Rye Brook, NY
Annie Jan
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fresh Meadows, NY 11366  (Online Only)
I aim to provide an inclusive, affirming, and empowering space for therapy, emphasizing interactive, collaborative, and client-centered sessions. With a foundation in cognitive-behavioral and humanistic theories, I tailor my approach to your unique needs and goals. My expertise lies in working with adults from diverse backgrounds facing anxiety, navigating major life transitions, workplace or academic stress or family/relationship issues. I'm particularly passionate about supporting BIPOC and LGBTQ+ populations, creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and goals.
I aim to provide an inclusive, affirming, and empowering space for therapy, emphasizing interactive, collaborative, and client-centered sessions. With a foundation in cognitive-behavioral and humanistic theories, I tailor my approach to your unique needs and goals. My expertise lies in working with adults from diverse backgrounds facing anxiety, navigating major life transitions, workplace or academic stress or family/relationship issues. I'm particularly passionate about supporting BIPOC and LGBTQ+ populations, creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and goals.
(516) 788-8229 View (516) 788-8229
Photo of Awaken Wellness, Inc., Counselor in Rye Brook, NY
Awaken Wellness, Inc.
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NY 11385
***Email/Text preferred*** We believe that in every challenging moment in life lies the opportunity for change. Change can often be scary and/or difficult however necessary to achieve inner peace, counseling can help move forward the process to achieve mental health. Wellness is key and in our conversations I explore your values during counseling therapy sessions. We do explore all aspects of life that are important including physical, mental, emotional, financial, and spiritual health. Typically our initial counseling sessions conversations are casual, it is a platform to ensure that I am the right fit for you.
***Email/Text preferred*** We believe that in every challenging moment in life lies the opportunity for change. Change can often be scary and/or difficult however necessary to achieve inner peace, counseling can help move forward the process to achieve mental health. Wellness is key and in our conversations I explore your values during counseling therapy sessions. We do explore all aspects of life that are important including physical, mental, emotional, financial, and spiritual health. Typically our initial counseling sessions conversations are casual, it is a platform to ensure that I am the right fit for you.
(646) 630-7933 View (646) 630-7933
Photo of Gitty Rubin, Counselor in Rye Brook, NY
Gitty Rubin
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
Like most human beings, you are doing your best trying to deal with the cards life dealt you. You are motivated and want to improve the quality of your life; only life hasn’t always provided you with the answers. If you are like most people, you have put in a lot of effort and often ended up disappointed in those ‘proven’ methods. However, your life and your brain are unique. Just like you can’t debate whether a hammer or screwdriver is ‘better’, there is no ‘best’ psychological method.
Like most human beings, you are doing your best trying to deal with the cards life dealt you. You are motivated and want to improve the quality of your life; only life hasn’t always provided you with the answers. If you are like most people, you have put in a lot of effort and often ended up disappointed in those ‘proven’ methods. However, your life and your brain are unique. Just like you can’t debate whether a hammer or screwdriver is ‘better’, there is no ‘best’ psychological method.
(646) 257-4170 x4 View (646) 257-4170 x4
Photo of Linda Garcia-Rose & Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rye Brook, NY
Linda Garcia-Rose & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10007
We are a Practice of 6 highly talented Psychotherapists. We believe in real, practical Transformative Psychotherapy focusing on more than just symptoms, helping each client live his/her happiest life through Positive Psychology. We use Mindfulness Techniques to help understand your thoughts and feelings and how these manifest in your body: yesterday, today and projecting into the future. Our team has deep training and experience in a wide range of specialties: Trauma and PTSD, Eating Disorders, Panic Attacks, Sex Therapy, Bio Feedback, Chronic Pain, IVF/Surrogacy, Spirituality, LGBTQA, Death/Dying/Hospice, and Business Coaching. We work with Children, Couples, Individuals and Families.
We are a Practice of 6 highly talented Psychotherapists. We believe in real, practical Transformative Psychotherapy focusing on more than just symptoms, helping each client live his/her happiest life through Positive Psychology. We use Mindfulness Techniques to help understand your thoughts and feelings and how these manifest in your body: yesterday, today and projecting into the future. Our team has deep training and experience in a wide range of specialties: Trauma and PTSD, Eating Disorders, Panic Attacks, Sex Therapy, Bio Feedback, Chronic Pain, IVF/Surrogacy, Spirituality, LGBTQA, Death/Dying/Hospice, and Business Coaching. We work with Children, Couples, Individuals and Families.
(646) 362-8705 View (646) 362-8705

See more therapy options for Rye Brook

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.