Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)

Compassion Focused Therapy was developed by psychologist Paul Gilbert, drawing on evolutionary psychology, neuroscience and Buddhist philosophy. It is grounded in the understanding that our brains are wired with three distinct emotional systems: a threat system (which drives anxiety and anger), a drive system (which motivates us to achieve and acquire), and a soothing system (which provides feelings of safety, contentment and connection).

Many people who experience persistent anxiety, depression or low self-worth have an overactive threat system and an underdeveloped soothing system. Their inner voice is harsh, critical and unforgiving — and they extend to themselves none of the warmth they might offer a close friend.

CFT works by deliberately cultivating compassion — not as a soft or sentimental idea, but as a courageous orientation towards suffering, including your own. Through imagery, reflection and practical exercises, CFT helps to activate the soothing system and develop a genuinely kinder, more supportive inner relationship with yourself.

CFT is often a powerful approach for people who are very hard on themselves or feel a deep sense of shame or inadequacy. It may be a particularly good fit if:

• You have a strong, persistent inner critic that is difficult to quieten
• You find it easy to be kind to others but struggle to extend the same warmth to yourself
• You carry a lot of shame — about who you are, past experiences, or how you've behaved
• You feel that your self-worth is fragile or conditional on achievement or approval
• Previous therapy has helped you make sense of your thoughts and behaviours, but warmth toward yourself and the inner critic that gets in the way of it  hasn't really shifted.

If you're not sure whether CFT or another approach would suit you better, please do get in touch — the free introductory call is the ideal place to work that out together.