Compassion Focused Therapists in University Park, PA

Photo of Kathryn Pohland, Marriage & Family Therapist in University Park, PA
Kathryn Pohland
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
University Park, PA 16802  (Online Only)
I provide therapy across the lifespan in individual, family and couples therapy. I work with clients struggling to manage Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief and Loss, ADHD and coping witI also work with college students struggling with the transition to college, rigors of academics and overall stress, depression and anxiety. I offer parenting sessions for parents struggling with a child dealing with ADHD, emotional and behavioral difficulties. You don't have to be in a "psychological crisis" to seek therapy.
I provide therapy across the lifespan in individual, family and couples therapy. I work with clients struggling to manage Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief and Loss, ADHD and coping witI also work with college students struggling with the transition to college, rigors of academics and overall stress, depression and anxiety. I offer parenting sessions for parents struggling with a child dealing with ADHD, emotional and behavioral difficulties. You don't have to be in a "psychological crisis" to seek therapy.
(814) 501-4294 View (814) 501-4294
Photo of Shephard Associates LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in University Park, PA
Shephard Associates LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
University Park, PA 16802  (Online Only)
I have been passionate about teaching, coaching, and helping individuals reach their goals for my entire life. I spent much of my professional career as a gymnastics coach. Since retiring from coaching in 2010, I went on to become a Licensed Professional Counselor and have worked with people dealing with a variety of issues including trauma, child sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, eating disorders, anger management, and more. I am trained in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Bowen Family Systems therapy. I want to help you reach your best self and live your best life.
I have been passionate about teaching, coaching, and helping individuals reach their goals for my entire life. I spent much of my professional career as a gymnastics coach. Since retiring from coaching in 2010, I went on to become a Licensed Professional Counselor and have worked with people dealing with a variety of issues including trauma, child sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, eating disorders, anger management, and more. I am trained in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Bowen Family Systems therapy. I want to help you reach your best self and live your best life.
(814) 501-4377 View (814) 501-4377
Photo of Jessica Frick, Licensed Professional Counselor in University Park, PA
Jessica Frick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Park, PA 16802
Not accepting new clients
You’re not sure - but something feels off here. You spend all of your time being everything to everyone else, because it feels selfish to do anything less. Even giving yourself space to feel upset about it feels wrong - when your emotions rise up, your inner voice gets cruel and stomps you back down into submission. Other people have offered to help, but you don’t think they can give you what you need any better than you can yourself - or you know for a fact that their offer is bullshit. You’re not about to get hurt again, so you push some people away, and you never say “no” to others.
You’re not sure - but something feels off here. You spend all of your time being everything to everyone else, because it feels selfish to do anything less. Even giving yourself space to feel upset about it feels wrong - when your emotions rise up, your inner voice gets cruel and stomps you back down into submission. Other people have offered to help, but you don’t think they can give you what you need any better than you can yourself - or you know for a fact that their offer is bullshit. You’re not about to get hurt again, so you push some people away, and you never say “no” to others.
(814) 473-7985 View (814) 473-7985
Photo of Kyle Newkam, Licensed Professional Counselor in University Park, PA
Kyle Newkam
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
University Park, PA 16802
Not accepting new clients
Availability: None at this time. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I am a believer that counseling is a place where an individual can work to understand themselves (developing self-awareness) and manage themselves (managing mind-body and true self). My job is to help you in your journey of personal growth. Every person has unique and valuable skills within them. Our goal in therapy is to find what you want to change, what those unique skills are, and to work toward your goals. Often times people come to therapy because they feel disconnected and struggling. Our therapy will be a place for rejuvenation.
Availability: None at this time. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I am a believer that counseling is a place where an individual can work to understand themselves (developing self-awareness) and manage themselves (managing mind-body and true self). My job is to help you in your journey of personal growth. Every person has unique and valuable skills within them. Our goal in therapy is to find what you want to change, what those unique skills are, and to work toward your goals. Often times people come to therapy because they feel disconnected and struggling. Our therapy will be a place for rejuvenation.
(717) 384-2418 View (717) 384-2418

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Charles Warren, Pre-Licensed Professional in University Park, PA
Charles Warren
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
State College, PA 16801  (Online Only)
I use a trauma informed lens and a non-judgmental framework in therapy that can include mindfulness, internal family systems (IFS), compassion focused, and feminist based theories focused on empowerment.
Currently accepting new clients! As a queer, trans, non-binary human I will offer my lived experience and clinical expertise where appropriate to provide a safe and affirming space. Not only for queer people, but anyone who has ever felt alone or ‘other’. I became a therapist because I know how hard it was for me to find a queer-competent and affirming mental healthcare provider when I needed it the most. I specialize working with people who struggle with complicated thoughts and feelings surrounding sexual health & wellness, intimacy, desire, sexuality, gender identity, trauma, and non-monogamous relationships.
I use a trauma informed lens and a non-judgmental framework in therapy that can include mindfulness, internal family systems (IFS), compassion focused, and feminist based theories focused on empowerment.
Currently accepting new clients! As a queer, trans, non-binary human I will offer my lived experience and clinical expertise where appropriate to provide a safe and affirming space. Not only for queer people, but anyone who has ever felt alone or ‘other’. I became a therapist because I know how hard it was for me to find a queer-competent and affirming mental healthcare provider when I needed it the most. I specialize working with people who struggle with complicated thoughts and feelings surrounding sexual health & wellness, intimacy, desire, sexuality, gender identity, trauma, and non-monogamous relationships.
(412) 998-7334 View (412) 998-7334
Photo of Abby Foster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in University Park, PA
Abby Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
State College, PA 16802  (Online Only)
I work with individuals (ages 14 & up) looking for relief, a change, direction, & for things to not feel so hard anymore. I am licensed to see patients state-wide in CA & PA & have an online teletherapy practice. My treatment style focuses on working to help patients gain a better understanding of what is going on & then teach strategies to lessen intrusive, anxiety & to build confidence. The reason I am able to achieve great results with my patients is that I help them figure out what factors & maladaptive patterns get in the way & teach them strategies to help alter these patterns so they can reach their full potential.
I work with individuals (ages 14 & up) looking for relief, a change, direction, & for things to not feel so hard anymore. I am licensed to see patients state-wide in CA & PA & have an online teletherapy practice. My treatment style focuses on working to help patients gain a better understanding of what is going on & then teach strategies to lessen intrusive, anxiety & to build confidence. The reason I am able to achieve great results with my patients is that I help them figure out what factors & maladaptive patterns get in the way & teach them strategies to help alter these patterns so they can reach their full potential.
(717) 925-2825 View (717) 925-2825
Photo of Mara Holsinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in University Park, PA
Mara Holsinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
State College, PA 16803  (Online Only)
I believe you are not defined by your past. You are defined by how you rise after falling. The bravest thing you can do is begin to understand your own story. As a licensed Social Worker, I specialize in Adolescent and adult trauma and offer a holistic therapeutic approach to help you unlock your full potential and elevate your quality of life. My goal is to work collaboratively with you to develop personal insights and skills to better navigate the challenges in your life.
I believe you are not defined by your past. You are defined by how you rise after falling. The bravest thing you can do is begin to understand your own story. As a licensed Social Worker, I specialize in Adolescent and adult trauma and offer a holistic therapeutic approach to help you unlock your full potential and elevate your quality of life. My goal is to work collaboratively with you to develop personal insights and skills to better navigate the challenges in your life.
(814) 259-8976 View (814) 259-8976
Photo of Soothing Moon Clinical Counseling , Pre-Licensed Professional in University Park, PA
Soothing Moon Clinical Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
State College, PA 16801  (Online Only)
Welcome to a space where your ambitions are not just acknowledged but celebrated. Life is fast-paced, and for those who are constantly on the move, finding time for self-care and personal growth can be challenging. As your therapist, I understand the demands of a busy life and offer non-traditional hours to ensure that you can prioritize your mental well-being in a way that fits the needs of your schedule.
Welcome to a space where your ambitions are not just acknowledged but celebrated. Life is fast-paced, and for those who are constantly on the move, finding time for self-care and personal growth can be challenging. As your therapist, I understand the demands of a busy life and offer non-traditional hours to ensure that you can prioritize your mental well-being in a way that fits the needs of your schedule.
(267) 429-4687 View (267) 429-4687
Photo of Hannah Myer, Pre-Licensed Professional in University Park, PA
Hannah Myer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
State College, PA 16801
My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space for individuals to journey toward healing and become more fully themselves in the process. This journey looks different for everyone, and wherever you are, my hope is that the counseling relationship is one that equips you to find freedom and peace in the midst of struggle and embrace the richness of your life in all circumstances.
My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space for individuals to journey toward healing and become more fully themselves in the process. This journey looks different for everyone, and wherever you are, my hope is that the counseling relationship is one that equips you to find freedom and peace in the midst of struggle and embrace the richness of your life in all circumstances.
(717) 942-9476 View (717) 942-9476
Photo of State College Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in University Park, PA
State College Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
When people are experiencing stress, unhappiness, and conflict they often feel like there is no hope. I help individuals work on identifying and processing, triggers, coping with their pain, and moving forward to reach their life goals. I help children, adults, and families focus on their strengths to be able to live their best lives. Individuals may need a variety of ways to achieve this.
When people are experiencing stress, unhappiness, and conflict they often feel like there is no hope. I help individuals work on identifying and processing, triggers, coping with their pain, and moving forward to reach their life goals. I help children, adults, and families focus on their strengths to be able to live their best lives. Individuals may need a variety of ways to achieve this.
(814) 569-6382 View (814) 569-6382
Photo of Sherrie-An E Gerhart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in University Park, PA
Sherrie-An E Gerhart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDBT
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your emotions or you don't know what you're feeling at all? Do you feel as though people are taking advantage of you or you don't know who you are anymore? You're not alone, this is very common. I will partner with you and help you to identify not only what you're feeling, but also how to cope with those feelings so you can feel more empowered to navigate your life more effectively. I can also help you to find your voice, so you can connect with who you are and to begin to assert clear boundaries with others.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your emotions or you don't know what you're feeling at all? Do you feel as though people are taking advantage of you or you don't know who you are anymore? You're not alone, this is very common. I will partner with you and help you to identify not only what you're feeling, but also how to cope with those feelings so you can feel more empowered to navigate your life more effectively. I can also help you to find your voice, so you can connect with who you are and to begin to assert clear boundaries with others.
(717) 940-3853 View (717) 940-3853
Photo of Fritz, Stanger & Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in University Park, PA
Fritz, Stanger & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16803  (Online Only)
We use a client-centered, strengths- focused therapeutic approach. We work with adolescents, adults, couples & families. With four clinicians and over 25 years of experience, we specialize in Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQ & Trauma using Solution Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and positive parent training. We are trained in an eclectic set of evidenced based therapeutic techniques and our mission is to help you become the best version of yourself. Begin your journey today, You are Worth it!
We use a client-centered, strengths- focused therapeutic approach. We work with adolescents, adults, couples & families. With four clinicians and over 25 years of experience, we specialize in Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQ & Trauma using Solution Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and positive parent training. We are trained in an eclectic set of evidenced based therapeutic techniques and our mission is to help you become the best version of yourself. Begin your journey today, You are Worth it!
(814) 859-2534 View (814) 859-2534
Photo of Haley Weiss Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional in University Park, PA
Haley Weiss Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
Whether you are in a season of struggle or of thriving, I hope to create a safe, warm, supportive and non-judgmental counseling environment for you to explore your inner world and how you move through your daily interactions. You are unique and shaped by many facets of your life and your counseling experience should be no different! I want to offer you a counseling experience that fits your unique needs and personality while encouraging you to continue your process of growth along the way.
Whether you are in a season of struggle or of thriving, I hope to create a safe, warm, supportive and non-judgmental counseling environment for you to explore your inner world and how you move through your daily interactions. You are unique and shaped by many facets of your life and your counseling experience should be no different! I want to offer you a counseling experience that fits your unique needs and personality while encouraging you to continue your process of growth along the way.
(814) 328-7328 View (814) 328-7328
Photo of Yanet Vanegas, Psychologist in University Park, PA
Yanet Vanegas
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16803  (Online Only)
Dr. Yanet Vanegas is a licensed psychologist trained at Harvard Medical School’s McLean Hospital. She specializes in the treatment of children, adolescents, and perinatal (prenatal and postpartum) women, and uses evidence-based practices to treat depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, ADHD, self-esteem concerns, social anxiety, autism, and social skills deficits. Dr. Vanegas also received extensive training and is a specialist in the treatment of eating disorders and OCD. She owns a private practice, A Secure Base Psychological Service, LLC, in Tampa, FL, and can practice in 39 states.
Dr. Yanet Vanegas is a licensed psychologist trained at Harvard Medical School’s McLean Hospital. She specializes in the treatment of children, adolescents, and perinatal (prenatal and postpartum) women, and uses evidence-based practices to treat depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, ADHD, self-esteem concerns, social anxiety, autism, and social skills deficits. Dr. Vanegas also received extensive training and is a specialist in the treatment of eating disorders and OCD. She owns a private practice, A Secure Base Psychological Service, LLC, in Tampa, FL, and can practice in 39 states.
(412) 538-5764 View (412) 538-5764
Photo of Mana Life Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in University Park, PA
Mana Life Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
State College, PA 16801
Having a compassionate counselor on your side during stressful times can be a great comfort. Whether you’re facing general stress, anxiety or depression Mana Life Counseling is here for you. Together, you’ll break down obstacles in your life and build a personal toolbox of coping strategies. Compassion and understanding are both key strategies in our approach, and through them, you’ll learn how to forge your way forward.
Having a compassionate counselor on your side during stressful times can be a great comfort. Whether you’re facing general stress, anxiety or depression Mana Life Counseling is here for you. Together, you’ll break down obstacles in your life and build a personal toolbox of coping strategies. Compassion and understanding are both key strategies in our approach, and through them, you’ll learn how to forge your way forward.
(814) 325-9284 View (814) 325-9284
Photo of Vithusha Selvavelautham, Pre-Licensed Professional in University Park, PA
Vithusha Selvavelautham
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
State College, PA 16802
Are you starting to feel resentful towards the people in your life because you’re constantly putting them before you? Are you tired of staying in relationships that make you feel small and insignificant? I get it. You feel like the entire world’s expectations are on your shoulders. On one hand you believe if you don’t fulfill other’s expectations their world falls apart, and on the other hand you’re exhausted because no matter what you do it will never be enough.
Are you starting to feel resentful towards the people in your life because you’re constantly putting them before you? Are you tired of staying in relationships that make you feel small and insignificant? I get it. You feel like the entire world’s expectations are on your shoulders. On one hand you believe if you don’t fulfill other’s expectations their world falls apart, and on the other hand you’re exhausted because no matter what you do it will never be enough.
(267) 310-1863 View (267) 310-1863
Photo of Bernadine Xiaoting Bi, Licensed Professional Counselor in University Park, PA
Bernadine Xiaoting Bi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16802  (Online Only)
Everyone can experience some hardships and barriers in life. You may feel helpless, powerless, confused, stuck, lost and lonely. You may experience some conflicts with others or within yourself, or go through the lows of life. You may be looking for someone to feel your pain, listen to you empathetically and nonjudgmentally, and help you identify your paths and move forward in life. You may be searching for a safe place that allows you to share your stories, be your authentic self and feel reconnected with others and life.
Everyone can experience some hardships and barriers in life. You may feel helpless, powerless, confused, stuck, lost and lonely. You may experience some conflicts with others or within yourself, or go through the lows of life. You may be looking for someone to feel your pain, listen to you empathetically and nonjudgmentally, and help you identify your paths and move forward in life. You may be searching for a safe place that allows you to share your stories, be your authentic self and feel reconnected with others and life.
(484) 290-5471 View (484) 290-5471
Photo of Vanessa Pappal, Pre-Licensed Professional in University Park, PA
Vanessa Pappal
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
State College, PA 16801
Accepting new clients! You're exhausted from not feeling worthy of the space you occupy. You're tired of holding everything in, and terrified to be your authentic self. You're a WHOLE person... not a symptom that needs to be cured. You've never been able to truly process all of the big emotions and 'stuff' you carry around because they have either been 'too much' or minimized. Or, shame has held you back. But it's becoming too heavy to carry on your own. With a little work and support, it IS possible to strip them of their power.
Accepting new clients! You're exhausted from not feeling worthy of the space you occupy. You're tired of holding everything in, and terrified to be your authentic self. You're a WHOLE person... not a symptom that needs to be cured. You've never been able to truly process all of the big emotions and 'stuff' you carry around because they have either been 'too much' or minimized. Or, shame has held you back. But it's becoming too heavy to carry on your own. With a little work and support, it IS possible to strip them of their power.
(412) 547-8633 View (412) 547-8633
Photo of Lizzie Plyler, Licensed Professional Counselor in University Park, PA
Lizzie Plyler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
State College, PA 16801  (Online Only)
You're finding yourself spiraling into the abyss inside of your mind. Your anger seems to go from 0-100 out of no where. You feel like there is velcro sticking between you and your bed, and your limbs feel heavy as you manage to get through each day. You're absolutely exhausted from all of the "masking" you have to do to get through and "be a normal person". You're tired of not showing up in the way that you want to. You're tired of not being able to be authentic, and sometimes struggle to know what that even means for you. It all seems like too much to attempt to figure out on your own. So you just... don't.
You're finding yourself spiraling into the abyss inside of your mind. Your anger seems to go from 0-100 out of no where. You feel like there is velcro sticking between you and your bed, and your limbs feel heavy as you manage to get through each day. You're absolutely exhausted from all of the "masking" you have to do to get through and "be a normal person". You're tired of not showing up in the way that you want to. You're tired of not being able to be authentic, and sometimes struggle to know what that even means for you. It all seems like too much to attempt to figure out on your own. So you just... don't.
(412) 419-2024 View (412) 419-2024
Photo of Marnie Stanton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in University Park, PA
Marnie Stanton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
State College, PA 16802  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are navigating difficult seasons of life, seeking support in processing painful events and challenges and in finding the best next steps to take. I assist clients with adjustment to stressors and life transitions, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, grief and loss, self-criticism, shame and self-doubt. My greatest passion in this work is helping clients to identify their strengths, recognize their own worth and develop a stronger and more compassionate sense of self. In doing this, it becomes easier for clients to process pain, learn new skills and pursue their goals.
I work with individuals who are navigating difficult seasons of life, seeking support in processing painful events and challenges and in finding the best next steps to take. I assist clients with adjustment to stressors and life transitions, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, grief and loss, self-criticism, shame and self-doubt. My greatest passion in this work is helping clients to identify their strengths, recognize their own worth and develop a stronger and more compassionate sense of self. In doing this, it becomes easier for clients to process pain, learn new skills and pursue their goals.
(412) 991-1084 View (412) 991-1084

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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.