Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)

Compassion focused therapy was developed by Prof Paul Gilbert and is a derivative of cognitive behavioural therapy and other approaches to work with shame-based difficulties. Many clients with strong internal critic struggle with intense feelings of shame which can get in the way of taking positive actions in their lives.

CFT focuses on helping people develop a strong internal compassion voice which is shown by research to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, and improves self-esteem and builds a more positive relationship with oneself. The goal of CFT is to build inner sense of safety, warmth and self-nurturing, which in turns allows oneself to improve capacity for self soothing, self-acceptance and resilience in stressful situations.