Compassion Focused Therapy
What is compassion-focused therapy?
Compassion-focused therapy (CFT) is a treatment method that encourages emotional healing by teaching individuals to practice compassion towards themselves. It is an effective treatment for those who struggle with self-criticism, shame, and self-acceptance. CFT is a powerful therapeutic approach for individuals who have experienced, abuse, neglect, eating disorders, and a variety of other emotional disorders.
CFT was derived from other well-known treatment approaches including CBT and developmental theory. Like CBT, compassion-focused therapy examines thoughts, feelings, and behaviours to balance emotions and reactions to threats and increase motivation and feelings of social connectedness. By directing clients toward goals of contentment and acceptance, they will see improvements in their social relationships and increase their capacity to feel compassion for themselves and others.
How does compassion-focused therapy work?
Compassion-focused therapy incorporates a number of techniques and exercises to improve the well-being of individuals. Those in CFT therapy will have the opportunity to practice
- Appreciation exercises to emphasize enjoyable experiences in their lives
- Mindfulness to draw attention to important moments or aspects of the present without fear or judgment, and
- Imagery exercises to stimulate a positive and soothing mindset
Along with these techniques, individuals will also have the opportunity to recognize and overcome instances of self-criticism. With the help of one of our trained therapists, those who are struggle with compassion will have the opportunity to explore these obstacles and improve their well-being.
When is compassion-focused therapy used?
Many individuals who struggle with shame, and self-criticism can benefit from CFT as it teaches them to have sympathy for themselves and for others. CFT is also beneficial for those who are seeking help for
- Self-esteem
- Stress
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Eating disorders
- Anger
- Relationship issues
- Shame
- Fear
- Body Image
- Trauma
- Personality disorders
- Addictions
This type of therapy may be used to treat other conditions and concerns in addition to those listed above. It may also be used in conjunction with other treatment methods. Your therapist will work with you to determine the best treatment method for your individual circumstances.
You should be aware that there is no treatment method that is successful for every person. What works for you, may not work for someone else.
What to expect from therapy?
Put simply, you will get out of therapy what you put into it. It’s not a magic solution that will solve all your problems. It may involve you doing some real work and being completely honest with yourself and your therapist. Sometimes facing our truth is the hardest thing of all – but from that discomfort can come healing and growth.
Insight’s therapists are available for in-person, online, or telephone counselling at several locations in Alberta. Contact us to learn more.