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Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)

Here at The Psychology Room, we offer CFT as one of our therapeutic approaches. CFT is an evidence-based approach drawing on elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness to help to foster self-compassion.

What is Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)?

Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) is an evidence-based therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Paul Gilbert. It combines elements of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) with mindfulness and compassion-building techniques. CFT is designed to help individuals develop and cultivate self-compassion, which is the ability to treat oneself with kindness, care, and understanding during times of difficulty, rather than being self-critical or judgmental. It can be particularly helpful for those with a history of trauma or difficulties within early relationships.

How does Compassion Focused Therapy work?

Key Elements of Compassion Focused Therapy

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CFT is grounded in the idea that many individuals experience emotional suffering due to a lack of self-compassion. It integrates techniques to develop compassion for oneself and others. The main components of CFT include:

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  1. Developing Compassion for the Self: A central focus of CFT is learning to treat oneself with kindness and understanding. Individuals often internalise self-criticism and perfectionism, leading to emotional distress. Through CFT, clients learn to shift their inner dialogue from judgment and criticism to nurturing and support.

  2. Understanding the Three Emotional Systems: CFT emphasises the importance of understanding three primary emotional systems: the threat system (associated with fear and anxiety), the drive system (focused on motivation and goal achievement), and the soothing system (related to safety, comfort, and compassion). CFT helps clients activate their soothing system to manage difficult emotions and foster emotional well-being.

  3. Mindfulness and Compassionate Awareness: Mindfulness plays a key role in CFT, helping individuals stay present and non-judgmental toward their thoughts and feelings. By practicing mindfulness, clients can become more aware of negative self-talk and replace it with self-compassionate thoughts and behaviors.

  4. Working with Difficult Emotions: CFT helps clients work through painful emotions such as shame, guilt, and sadness by learning to approach these feelings with compassion rather than avoidance or self-criticism. This allows for greater emotional resilience and acceptance.

  5. Building Compassionate Relationships: CFT also focuses on improving interpersonal relationships by fostering empathy and compassion toward others. Clients learn how to cultivate healthier, more supportive connections and communicate with kindness and understanding.

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Is CFT right for me?

Compassion Focused Therapy can be highly effective for individuals who struggle with self-criticism, shame, and a lack of self-compassion. It has been shown to help with a variety of mental health concerns, including:

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  • Anxiety and Depression

  • Low self-esteem and self-worth

  • Chronic stress

  • Trauma and PTSD

  • Eating disorders

  • Shame and guilt

  • Relationship difficulties

  • Perfectionism and burnout

 

If you find yourself overwhelmed by self-criticism or are struggling to be kind and compassionate toward yourself, CFT can help you develop the tools you need. If you'd like to find out more about how CFT could benefit you, get in touch for a free consultation. 

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