Understanding Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)
Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) is a psychological approach developed to help individuals who experience high levels of shame, self-criticism, or emotional distress. Grounded in evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, and mindfulness, CFT encourages self-kindness and emotional healing by developing the “compassionate mind.”
CFT is especially effective for people who struggle to respond to their own suffering with warmth or understanding, and helps them create a more supportive inner dialogue.
What is Compassion Focused Therapy?
CFT works by teaching individuals how to:
Understand and regulate their emotional responses
Develop compassion towards themselves and others
Balance the brain’s threat, drive, and soothing systems
Reduce patterns of self-criticism, shame, or guilt
Improve emotional resilience and wellbeing
Sessions typically involve guided exercises, mindfulness practices, and compassionate imagery to reshape how people relate to their own emotions and experiences.
What to Expect from a Compassion Focused Therapy Service
When you begin a CFT service, you can expect:
An initial assessment to understand your history, challenges, and goals
A safe, non-judgemental space led by a trained therapist
Use of compassionate imagery, role play, and reflection exercises
Skills to calm the threat system and activate the soothing system
Tools to build self-acceptance, inner strength, and emotional safety
CFT is usually offered in weekly sessions, either in-person or online, depending on your preference and availability.
Who Conducts This Service?
Compassion Focused Therapy is provided by:
Registered psychologists or psychotherapists
Counsellors trained in CFT approaches
Mental health professionals with advanced CFT certification
Clinical social workers or CBT therapists who integrate CFT into their practice
All therapists available through My Health Assistant are fully qualified, accredited, and experienced in providing CFT.
Who Might Need This Service?
CFT may be beneficial for individuals who:
Experience high self-criticism or chronic shame
Struggle with low self-esteem or perfectionism
Are living with depression, anxiety, or trauma
Have difficulties forming safe emotional relationships
Want to improve self-compassion, resilience, and wellbeing
It’s also helpful for people who haven’t responded well to other therapeutic approaches and are looking for a gentler, values-based method.
Types of Compassion Focused Therapy (If Applicable)
CFT may be offered in various formats:
One-to-one therapy sessions – most common and tailored to the individual
Group CFT – supportive environments for shared learning and healing
Online CFT – remote therapy via video or phone
Integrated CFT – combined with other therapies like CBT or ACT
Your therapist will guide you in choosing the right approach based on your needs and comfort level.
The Risks Associated with Compassion Focused Therapy
CFT is generally safe and well-tolerated, but as with any therapy, there are a few considerations:
Discussing emotional issues can cause temporary distress as feelings surface
It may take time to develop comfort with self-compassion practices
Not all individuals respond equally, especially if underlying conditions require different approaches
A skilled therapist will pace the sessions appropriately and ensure you feel supported throughout.
How to Choose the Right Health Professional
To find the right CFT service near me, keep the following in mind:
Look for therapists trained or certified in CFT
Choose someone with experience treating your specific concerns
Ensure they are registered with a professional therapy body (e.g. BACP, UKCP, HCPC)
Read reviews or request a brief introductory call to assess fit and comfort
Consider their availability, location, and whether they offer remote sessions
My Health Assistant simplifies your search by helping you connect with trusted, nearby professionals offering personalised support.
Summary
Compassion Focused Therapy offers a gentle, empowering path toward emotional healing and self-acceptance. Whether you’re managing trauma, anxiety, or intense self-criticism, this therapy helps you build inner warmth and psychological safety. My Health Assistant is here to help you find the right compassion focused therapy (CFT) service near me—giving you access to supportive, effective mental health care when and where you need it.
