Compassion Focused Therapy

What is Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)?

Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) is an evidence-based approach to psychotherapy that focuses on developing self-compassion and addressing issues related to shame, self-criticism, and emotional regulation. At KCPsych, CFT is used to help individuals cultivate a kinder, more compassionate relationship with themselves, while also promoting emotional healing and resilience.

How does CFT work?

CFT is grounded in the understanding that many mental health difficulties, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma, are driven by self-criticism and a lack of self-compassion. The therapy helps individuals understand and challenge unhelpful patterns of thinking, while promoting the development of a compassionate mindset.

At KCPsych, our therapists collaborate with clients to:

• Develop self-compassion: Learn how to treat yourself with kindness and understanding, especially during times of struggle or failure.
• Address shame and self-criticism: Identify and reduce negative self-talk and the destructive impact of shame.
• Improve emotional regulation: Learn tools to manage difficult emotions and build emotional resilience.
• Enhance mindfulness skills: Develop the ability to stay present and aware without judgement, fostering greater emotional awareness and understanding.
• Strengthen the capacity for compassion: Build compassion for others and oneself through structured exercises and mindfulness practices.

What conditions can CFT help with?

CFT is particularly effective for individuals dealing with self-criticism, low self-esteem, and emotional difficulties linked to trauma and shame.

At KCPsych, we use CFT to support individuals with various challenges, including:

• Depression: Helps individuals address negative self-beliefs and promotes self-compassion as a way to reduce depressive symptoms.
• Anxiety: Works to reduce anxiety by cultivating a compassionate approach to fear and uncertainty.
• Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Supports individuals in healing from trauma by addressing shame and fostering self-compassion in the face of distressing memories.
• Self-harm: CFT can reduce the urge for self-destructive behaviours by promoting emotional resilience and self-kindness.
• Chronic shame: Assists individuals in overcoming chronic shame and developing a healthier relationship with themselves.
• Eating disorders: Encourages a compassionate approach to body image and eating, addressing underlying emotional issues.

The benefits of CFT

At KCPsych, we’ve witnessed the powerful impact CFT has on our clients' emotional well-being and self-esteem.

Some key benefits of CFT include:

• Evidence-based approach: CFT is supported by research and has proven effectiveness for conditions like depression, anxiety, and trauma-related issues.
• Reduction in self-criticism: Through compassion training, CFT helps individuals replace self-criticism with self-acceptance and kindness.
• Improved emotional resilience: CFT helps individuals build healthier ways of coping with stress, setbacks, and emotional challenges.
• Healthier relationships: As self-compassion increases, interpersonal relationships tend to improve, as clients are better able to empathise with themselves and others.
• Long-term emotional well-being: The skills learned in CFT provide individuals with lifelong tools for emotional regulation, self-compassion, and mindful awareness.

What to expect in a CFT session

During a typical CFT session at KCPsych, you’ll engage in both individual therapy and exercises that foster self-compassion. These sessions are designed to help you recognise and challenge negative patterns, while also encouraging greater emotional healing and balance.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Exploration of self-criticism: Your therapist will help you explore negative self-talk, its origins, and its impact on your emotional health.
• Compassionate exercises: You’ll participate in exercises that focus on developing a compassionate mindset, such as self-compassionate imagery and mindfulness practices.
• Skill-building: Learn strategies to manage difficult emotions and develop resilience in the face of adversity.
• Homework assignments: Your therapist may suggest exercises for you to practice between sessions, encouraging the integration of compassionate practices into daily life.
• CFT is a collaborative process, with your therapist supporting you every step of the way as you learn how to foster a kinder, more accepting relationship with yourself.

Is CFT right for you?

At KCPsych, we recognise that CFT is especially beneficial for individuals who struggle with self-criticism, shame, low self-esteem, and emotional difficulties. If you're experiencing distress due to negative self-beliefs or are finding it hard to cope with your emotions, CFT might be a helpful approach. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or eating disorders, our experienced therapists will work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.