Compassion Focused Therapists in Buffalo, MN

Photo of Christine Junod, Marriage & Family Therapist in Buffalo, MN
Christine Junod
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Buffalo, MN 55313
My clients have experienced Big T or little t traumas, or they're anxious and overthinking. My clients have been harmed by past relationships or experiences and often don't feel "heard" by the significant people in their lives. Some clients need help identifying and processing long-held feelings, some need someone to come alongside and help them navigate a tough time in life. My clients don't want to feel alone anymore. They want to move ahead and replace their burdens with hope.
My clients have experienced Big T or little t traumas, or they're anxious and overthinking. My clients have been harmed by past relationships or experiences and often don't feel "heard" by the significant people in their lives. Some clients need help identifying and processing long-held feelings, some need someone to come alongside and help them navigate a tough time in life. My clients don't want to feel alone anymore. They want to move ahead and replace their burdens with hope.
(320) 337-1394 View (320) 337-1394
Photo of Johanna Schultz, Pre-Licensed Professional in Buffalo, MN
Johanna Schultz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Buffalo, MN 55313
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience and enjoy working with individuals across the lifespan. I believe in the inherent value, purpose, and dignity of each person and that through therapy, individuals can develop or re-establish this believe about themselves. I am here to actively and non-judgmentally listen to your story and work collaboratively to build upon your internal strengths and reaching your goals. I desire to create a space that is safe and supportive where you feel comfortable expressing yourself, your concerns, and aspirations.
I have experience and enjoy working with individuals across the lifespan. I believe in the inherent value, purpose, and dignity of each person and that through therapy, individuals can develop or re-establish this believe about themselves. I am here to actively and non-judgmentally listen to your story and work collaboratively to build upon your internal strengths and reaching your goals. I desire to create a space that is safe and supportive where you feel comfortable expressing yourself, your concerns, and aspirations.
(320) 322-6799 View (320) 322-6799
Photo of Melissa A. Raatz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Buffalo, MN
Melissa A. Raatz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CHT, ART, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buffalo, MN 55313
I believe all clients hold the key to their own success and can be guided to that end in a safe, trusting, honest environment. Building relationship and skills for growth, understanding and healing are among my goals in therapy. My personal journey through adoption, trauma, abuse, raising a child with mental health concerns, spiritual enlightenment, natural mental health, divorce, and remarriage have become the gifts I share though therapy. I believe the keys essential to reaching any goal lies within each of us believing in ourselves and knowing that someone also believes in us.
I believe all clients hold the key to their own success and can be guided to that end in a safe, trusting, honest environment. Building relationship and skills for growth, understanding and healing are among my goals in therapy. My personal journey through adoption, trauma, abuse, raising a child with mental health concerns, spiritual enlightenment, natural mental health, divorce, and remarriage have become the gifts I share though therapy. I believe the keys essential to reaching any goal lies within each of us believing in ourselves and knowing that someone also believes in us.
(763) 401-7618 View (763) 401-7618
Photo of Christina Muraski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Buffalo, MN
Christina Muraski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Buffalo, MN 55313
Not accepting new clients
Christina specializes in working in early childhood mental health and sees young children from birth and up to age 6 and works closely with their caregivers providing parenting skills and focusing on strengthening relationships. Christina is a Registered Play Therapist and sees children up to the age of 12. Christina believes that play therapy offers a way to empower children and provides a space for them to heal from traumatic experiences, express their emotions in productive ways, and feel encouraged to move beyond their difficult situations, and all through their natural language which is PLAY.
Christina specializes in working in early childhood mental health and sees young children from birth and up to age 6 and works closely with their caregivers providing parenting skills and focusing on strengthening relationships. Christina is a Registered Play Therapist and sees children up to the age of 12. Christina believes that play therapy offers a way to empower children and provides a space for them to heal from traumatic experiences, express their emotions in productive ways, and feel encouraged to move beyond their difficult situations, and all through their natural language which is PLAY.
(320) 347-3759 View (320) 347-3759

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alison Potter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Buffalo, MN
Alison Potter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
As human beings, we are driven towards inner balance, and many situations in life can impact functioning and offset balance. Maybe you have developed patterns of coping that are not working anymore, or you are feeling stuck. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, eating concerns, eating disorders, grief, adjustments, and life adjustments. Collaboratively, we will work together on your goals, while noticing the strengths that lie within you and your authentic self. I have worked in a variety of settings, including: outpatient, school-based, residential treatment centers and community based.
As human beings, we are driven towards inner balance, and many situations in life can impact functioning and offset balance. Maybe you have developed patterns of coping that are not working anymore, or you are feeling stuck. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, eating concerns, eating disorders, grief, adjustments, and life adjustments. Collaboratively, we will work together on your goals, while noticing the strengths that lie within you and your authentic self. I have worked in a variety of settings, including: outpatient, school-based, residential treatment centers and community based.
(763) 307-5785 View (763) 307-5785
Photo of Rindie Eagle, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Buffalo, MN
Rindie Eagle
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Some Monday openings. If you find yourself struggling to keep the "perfect" mask on, I can help you become empowered to make the changes you want in your life to feel better and become recharged. We will use a strengths-based approach to identify the strengths you already have, and then you will learn how to use them in your favor to make the changes you want in your life in order to reduce the anxiety or depression that is draining your system. Go to this link to get on the waitlist: jotform.com/rindie/appointments
Some Monday openings. If you find yourself struggling to keep the "perfect" mask on, I can help you become empowered to make the changes you want in your life to feel better and become recharged. We will use a strengths-based approach to identify the strengths you already have, and then you will learn how to use them in your favor to make the changes you want in your life in order to reduce the anxiety or depression that is draining your system. Go to this link to get on the waitlist: jotform.com/rindie/appointments
(763) 634-5444 View (763) 634-5444
Photo of Tamarah Gehlen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Buffalo, MN
Tamarah Gehlen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Rockford, MN 55373
Accepting New Clients! As an integrative therapist, I draw from different psychotherapy orientations. This allows me to tailor therapy to your needs and allows for a truly collaborative process in deciding where we go and how. Since successful therapy depends on a strong relationship between client and therapist, my first priority is nurturing that bond by creating a safe and supportive environment. I believe therapy is most effective when it is flexible, demystified, and client-centered, so you can expect me to be transparent about my ideas and approaches. My style is at times infused with humor and is always warm and direct.
Accepting New Clients! As an integrative therapist, I draw from different psychotherapy orientations. This allows me to tailor therapy to your needs and allows for a truly collaborative process in deciding where we go and how. Since successful therapy depends on a strong relationship between client and therapist, my first priority is nurturing that bond by creating a safe and supportive environment. I believe therapy is most effective when it is flexible, demystified, and client-centered, so you can expect me to be transparent about my ideas and approaches. My style is at times infused with humor and is always warm and direct.
(763) 301-5877 View (763) 301-5877
Photo of Jennifer Knapp, Marriage & Family Therapist in Buffalo, MN
Jennifer Knapp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
We are not meant to live in isolation. From the moment we are born, our identity and sense of self is tied in with those around us. Over time, it may shift from parents to peer groups to intimate partners, but how we interact with others is at the core of our emotional well-being. Parenting comes with a unique set of questions, self-doubt, and high stakes. For many of us, it may activate unresolved hurt or resentment from our own childhood or invite feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty. Our intimate relationships are another significant part of our lives. Clients can learn how to connect, improve understanding, and strengthen their intimate relationships by moving past the cycles that break down communication and build walls of hurt and defensiveness. Couples can re-establish that “spark,” share a vision of a connected future, and feel both valued and validated by their partners. Experiencing trauma impacts our ability to connect with and receive connection from others. Sometimes we get so stuck in that trauma that it shifts our view of the world and can permanently alter our perception. Therapy is a place to process through this experience, so you can move forward with life.
We are not meant to live in isolation. From the moment we are born, our identity and sense of self is tied in with those around us. Over time, it may shift from parents to peer groups to intimate partners, but how we interact with others is at the core of our emotional well-being. Parenting comes with a unique set of questions, self-doubt, and high stakes. For many of us, it may activate unresolved hurt or resentment from our own childhood or invite feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty. Our intimate relationships are another significant part of our lives. Clients can learn how to connect, improve understanding, and strengthen their intimate relationships by moving past the cycles that break down communication and build walls of hurt and defensiveness. Couples can re-establish that “spark,” share a vision of a connected future, and feel both valued and validated by their partners. Experiencing trauma impacts our ability to connect with and receive connection from others. Sometimes we get so stuck in that trauma that it shifts our view of the world and can permanently alter our perception. Therapy is a place to process through this experience, so you can move forward with life.
(763) 334-6512 View (763) 334-6512
Photo of Authentic Roots Therapy PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Buffalo, MN
Authentic Roots Therapy PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LP, LPCC, LADC, Supervi
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Authentic Roots Therapy is a mental health collaborative where licensed professionals provide individual, couple, & family mental health therapy in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We specialize in working with children, couples, families, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals who are questioning, curious, transitioning, or identifying as transgender/non-binary, mothers in postpartum, faith communities, individuals experiencing traumatic symptomatology, and highly sensitive men!
Authentic Roots Therapy is a mental health collaborative where licensed professionals provide individual, couple, & family mental health therapy in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We specialize in working with children, couples, families, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals who are questioning, curious, transitioning, or identifying as transgender/non-binary, mothers in postpartum, faith communities, individuals experiencing traumatic symptomatology, and highly sensitive men!
(763) 703-1621 View (763) 703-1621
Photo of Ty Ferris, Pre-Licensed Professional in Buffalo, MN
Ty Ferris
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHP
Verified Verified
Rockford, MN 55373  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hi! My name is Ty, and I can’t wait to work with you! If things have been just a little stressful, or you have gone through really difficult stuff–you have come to the right place, I’ve got your back, and we can work through hard things. If you are wanting someone who is going to listen non-judgmentally, who can understand and who can support whatever it is that you are dealing with, I would love to sit down and talk with you. If you are looking for a provider who can understand what it is like to go through the world as a part of the queer community and dealing with LGBTQ+ cultural issues and discrimination–yep, that’s me, too!
Hi! My name is Ty, and I can’t wait to work with you! If things have been just a little stressful, or you have gone through really difficult stuff–you have come to the right place, I’ve got your back, and we can work through hard things. If you are wanting someone who is going to listen non-judgmentally, who can understand and who can support whatever it is that you are dealing with, I would love to sit down and talk with you. If you are looking for a provider who can understand what it is like to go through the world as a part of the queer community and dealing with LGBTQ+ cultural issues and discrimination–yep, that’s me, too!
(763) 251-9781 View (763) 251-9781
Photo of Niloufer Merchant, Psychologist in Buffalo, MN
Niloufer Merchant
Psychologist, EdD, LP
Verified Verified
Monticello, MN 55362
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling with emotional and/or relationship issues and not sure how to deal with them? Seeking help is not easy and I recognize it takes courage to take that first step to reach out to a professional. For that reason, I use gentle, compassionate, and affirming methods to create a safe environment and work at a pace that is most comfortable to you. Sometimes it’s easy to talk about the issues and at other times, it feels too private or painful to reveal. When memories are too painful to share I can even work with them silently. I also incorporate many holistic approaches, honoring the mind, body and spirit connection.
Are you struggling with emotional and/or relationship issues and not sure how to deal with them? Seeking help is not easy and I recognize it takes courage to take that first step to reach out to a professional. For that reason, I use gentle, compassionate, and affirming methods to create a safe environment and work at a pace that is most comfortable to you. Sometimes it’s easy to talk about the issues and at other times, it feels too private or painful to reveal. When memories are too painful to share I can even work with them silently. I also incorporate many holistic approaches, honoring the mind, body and spirit connection.
(320) 547-4019 View (320) 547-4019

Online Therapists

Photo of Solstice Therapy and Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Buffalo, MN
Solstice Therapy and Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
We are located in Uptown (with great parking) and are trained in different modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR, perinatal mental health, compassion focused therapy and more.
We have current availability - email us to schedule a consultation call! If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed, we are here to support you. Therapists at Solstice Therapy and Wellness will hold space, and collaborate with you to work towards meaningful change, improved self-care, healthy relationships, valued living, and more joy.
We are located in Uptown (with great parking) and are trained in different modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR, perinatal mental health, compassion focused therapy and more.
We have current availability - email us to schedule a consultation call! If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed, we are here to support you. Therapists at Solstice Therapy and Wellness will hold space, and collaborate with you to work towards meaningful change, improved self-care, healthy relationships, valued living, and more joy.
(612) 482-2115 View (612) 482-2115
Photo of Samantha Kallberg, PsyD, LP, Psychologist in Buffalo, MN
Samantha Kallberg, PsyD, LP
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
Starting therapy can be an overwhelming process during a challenging time in your life. My goal is to provide a space where you feel heard while you share your story in a supportive environment. I provide individual therapy for adults. I have experience with a wide range of mental health areas, including body dysmorphic disorder, problematic eating patterns, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Starting therapy can be an overwhelming process during a challenging time in your life. My goal is to provide a space where you feel heard while you share your story in a supportive environment. I provide individual therapy for adults. I have experience with a wide range of mental health areas, including body dysmorphic disorder, problematic eating patterns, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
(651) 867-2896 View (651) 867-2896
Photo of Coleen Groen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Buffalo, MN
Coleen Groen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Stillwater, MN 55082
I have been a therapist for twenty years and have helped individuals recover from trauma. I have worked to help people navigate their journey in the aftermath of trauma and work to foster a sense of resiliency. My work is compassion focused, culturally aware and works to build ones empowerment.
I have been a therapist for twenty years and have helped individuals recover from trauma. I have worked to help people navigate their journey in the aftermath of trauma and work to foster a sense of resiliency. My work is compassion focused, culturally aware and works to build ones empowerment.
(651) 564-7192 View (651) 564-7192
Photo of Natalie Wasiluk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Buffalo, MN
Natalie Wasiluk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Stillwater, MN 55082
Waitlist for new clients
I offer an individualized approach to psychotherapy, drawing from over a decade of experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, emotion dysregulation, and problems in relationships. I've completed advanced training in a variety of evidence-based interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, interpersonal, and compassion-focused therapies, as well as training in mind-body and somatic practices, to help meet the diverse needs of my clientele. I have a passion for helping clients develop healthy relationships while pursuing recovery from experiences of trauma, moral injury, and shame.
I offer an individualized approach to psychotherapy, drawing from over a decade of experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, emotion dysregulation, and problems in relationships. I've completed advanced training in a variety of evidence-based interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, interpersonal, and compassion-focused therapies, as well as training in mind-body and somatic practices, to help meet the diverse needs of my clientele. I have a passion for helping clients develop healthy relationships while pursuing recovery from experiences of trauma, moral injury, and shame.
(651) 661-4022 View (651) 661-4022
Photo of Shoshana Koch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Buffalo, MN
Shoshana Koch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC, CYT-200
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Pursuing therapy is a courageous act and I'm honored to hold space for this vital work. Common challenges I navigate with people include depression, anxiety, stress management, trauma/complex trauma, substance use disorders, process addictions, and life transitions. Employing holistic approaches rooted in mindfulness, body-centered modalities, and compassion-focused therapy, my aim as a clinician is to support people in uncovering their own answers by tapping into their innate capacity for repair and thriving. When applicable, I apply my Yoga teacher certification and Ayurvedic health coaching to certain treatment goals.
Pursuing therapy is a courageous act and I'm honored to hold space for this vital work. Common challenges I navigate with people include depression, anxiety, stress management, trauma/complex trauma, substance use disorders, process addictions, and life transitions. Employing holistic approaches rooted in mindfulness, body-centered modalities, and compassion-focused therapy, my aim as a clinician is to support people in uncovering their own answers by tapping into their innate capacity for repair and thriving. When applicable, I apply my Yoga teacher certification and Ayurvedic health coaching to certain treatment goals.
(651) 409-6266 View (651) 409-6266
Photo of Nguyen Vu, Pre-Licensed Professional in Buffalo, MN
Nguyen Vu
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55114
When someone lets me sit with them, listen to their stories, and be a witness to their pains, bravery, and strengths, I consider it an honor and a privilege. Through my personal and professional journey, I have learned, and wholeheartedly believe that every person already has what it takes in them to be content and happy. However, life has never been simple or easy, despite its beauty. Often we can lose sight of our unique and intrinsic strengths, beauty, and meanings when surrounded by the busyness of daily life, human suffering, and un-nourishing cultural messages.
When someone lets me sit with them, listen to their stories, and be a witness to their pains, bravery, and strengths, I consider it an honor and a privilege. Through my personal and professional journey, I have learned, and wholeheartedly believe that every person already has what it takes in them to be content and happy. However, life has never been simple or easy, despite its beauty. Often we can lose sight of our unique and intrinsic strengths, beauty, and meanings when surrounded by the busyness of daily life, human suffering, and un-nourishing cultural messages.
(651) 661-5609 View (651) 661-5609
Photo of Minneapolis Nature-Based Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Buffalo, MN
Minneapolis Nature-Based Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55417
Waitlist for new clients
Taking therapy outside into nature allows access to powerful resources to help you address your goals, increase emotional and physical well-being and promote healing and resilience. In this practice my colleagues and I meet outside year-round in the South Minneapolis area, walking along the creek or river, sitting under a favorite pine tree or on a bench by the lake, with the option of telehealth when the weather is unsafe or just too cold. My style is supportive, warm, playful and experiential. We can address attachment difficulties, emotional and behavioral regulation, stress, anxiety, depression, grief and trauma.
Taking therapy outside into nature allows access to powerful resources to help you address your goals, increase emotional and physical well-being and promote healing and resilience. In this practice my colleagues and I meet outside year-round in the South Minneapolis area, walking along the creek or river, sitting under a favorite pine tree or on a bench by the lake, with the option of telehealth when the weather is unsafe or just too cold. My style is supportive, warm, playful and experiential. We can address attachment difficulties, emotional and behavioral regulation, stress, anxiety, depression, grief and trauma.
(612) 351-3207 View (612) 351-3207
Photo of Brittni Ingvaldson in Buffalo, MN
Brittni Ingvaldson
MA, LADC, CTALC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Savage, MN 55378
I provide individuals with a safe and non-judgmental space where feelings of all kinds are received and validated, a trusted therapeutic relationship can be shared, and healing and self-discovery can happen! I want to support individuals in rediscovering their true authentic self through empowering individuals to explore,challenge,and invest in their healing. My client-centered approaches use a variety of evidence based therapeutic modalities that support individualized healing on all levels.
I provide individuals with a safe and non-judgmental space where feelings of all kinds are received and validated, a trusted therapeutic relationship can be shared, and healing and self-discovery can happen! I want to support individuals in rediscovering their true authentic self through empowering individuals to explore,challenge,and invest in their healing. My client-centered approaches use a variety of evidence based therapeutic modalities that support individualized healing on all levels.
(952) 214-0761 View (952) 214-0761
Photo of Lindsey Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Buffalo, MN
Lindsey Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
Anxious? Depressed? Frustrated/Irritable? Having issues with your partner and not sure how to communicate with them? Having issues with a child/adolescent who is anxious/depressed/angry and you don't feel you know how to help? These are all issues I can help you with. I am a Registered Play Therapist, and have training in Level 1 and Level 2 of Gottman Method Couples Therapy. I use Love and Logic Parenting Philosophy to help with parenting issues.
Anxious? Depressed? Frustrated/Irritable? Having issues with your partner and not sure how to communicate with them? Having issues with a child/adolescent who is anxious/depressed/angry and you don't feel you know how to help? These are all issues I can help you with. I am a Registered Play Therapist, and have training in Level 1 and Level 2 of Gottman Method Couples Therapy. I use Love and Logic Parenting Philosophy to help with parenting issues.
(952) 230-0400 View (952) 230-0400

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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.