Compassion Focused Counselling in Faversham

Photo of Annie Foley, DCounsPsych, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Annie Foley
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Faversham ME13
Through therapy you can find out things about yourself that will help you understand what is going on for you and help to develop your own understanding and gradually learn more about your innermost parts and lead the way to greater acceptance of yourself. This is awareness and will help you feel more empowered to choose to do things differently. I believe this work is about being true to yourself rather than being who you think you 'should' be and to reclaim those parts of you that have been denied. It is both challenging and rewarding work leading to emotional healing and growth.
Through therapy you can find out things about yourself that will help you understand what is going on for you and help to develop your own understanding and gradually learn more about your innermost parts and lead the way to greater acceptance of yourself. This is awareness and will help you feel more empowered to choose to do things differently. I believe this work is about being true to yourself rather than being who you think you 'should' be and to reclaim those parts of you that have been denied. It is both challenging and rewarding work leading to emotional healing and growth.
07480 781562 View 07480 781562
Photo of Ann-Louise McCarthy, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Ann-Louise McCarthy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Faversham ME13
I am Ann McCarthy and I am a UKCP registered Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist. I am also a member of CPJA (Council for Psychoanalytic and Jungian Analysts). I provide Psychoanalytic and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment, on an open-ended basis or for an agreed time period. Our work together will focus on identifying, better understanding and working through the issues that are impacting negatively on your life so you are able to develop positive changes within yourself and in your ways of relating with others.
I am Ann McCarthy and I am a UKCP registered Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist. I am also a member of CPJA (Council for Psychoanalytic and Jungian Analysts). I provide Psychoanalytic and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment, on an open-ended basis or for an agreed time period. Our work together will focus on identifying, better understanding and working through the issues that are impacting negatively on your life so you are able to develop positive changes within yourself and in your ways of relating with others.
01227 931090 View 01227 931090
Photo of Jo Walmsley, MBACP, Counsellor
Jo Walmsley
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Faversham ME13
I am a down to earth, professional and accredited Integrative Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor. with tattoos and a love to laugh. I am experienced in many issues, but extensive experience in Disability, Domestic Abuse, Relationship Issues, Anxiety and Depression. I can help you begin to understand how past events and experiences may be responsible for your current beliefs, behaviour and actions. By helping you to see things in a new way it allows you the choice of change. You deserve the future you choose, let me help you find it.. Whilst based in Teynham, I also cover areas such as Sittingbourne, Faversham, Swale, Sheerness.
I am a down to earth, professional and accredited Integrative Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor. with tattoos and a love to laugh. I am experienced in many issues, but extensive experience in Disability, Domestic Abuse, Relationship Issues, Anxiety and Depression. I can help you begin to understand how past events and experiences may be responsible for your current beliefs, behaviour and actions. By helping you to see things in a new way it allows you the choice of change. You deserve the future you choose, let me help you find it.. Whilst based in Teynham, I also cover areas such as Sittingbourne, Faversham, Swale, Sheerness.
07745 614966 View 07745 614966
Photo of Craig Abex, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Craig Abex
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Faversham ME13  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am an Integrative Psychotherapist and Supervisor with extensive experience working with mild to severe psychological difficulties across settings that include private practice, third sector, primary care, and NHS inpatient psychiatric hospitals. As a clinician, I'm deeply committed to helping people heal and find a way forward, bringing them closer to a life they value. You may feel unable to describe what you're going through, but know something simply isn't feeling right. Or, you may know exactly what the difficulty is, but struggle to find a way forward. Either way, therapy can support you with your goals.
I am an Integrative Psychotherapist and Supervisor with extensive experience working with mild to severe psychological difficulties across settings that include private practice, third sector, primary care, and NHS inpatient psychiatric hospitals. As a clinician, I'm deeply committed to helping people heal and find a way forward, bringing them closer to a life they value. You may feel unable to describe what you're going through, but know something simply isn't feeling right. Or, you may know exactly what the difficulty is, but struggle to find a way forward. Either way, therapy can support you with your goals.
01304 796956 View 01304 796956
Photo of Lucy Wilks - Lucy Wilks Counselling and EMDR Therapy, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Lucy Wilks Counselling and EMDR Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Faversham ME13  (Online Only)
Hi and welcome. It's a big step forward trying to find a counsellor who is right for you but a step worth taking. I have worked within mental health for over a decade. I am confident and experienced in working with clients who are experiencing intense levels of anxiety, PTSD, and episodes of low mood and depression. My core training is humanistic and I am also trained as an EMDR therapist. I am happy to meet online for a chat about what you are hoping to get from counselling sessions and see if you feel that we could work together towards your goals. I have lots of experience in helping clients to develop coping strategies.
Hi and welcome. It's a big step forward trying to find a counsellor who is right for you but a step worth taking. I have worked within mental health for over a decade. I am confident and experienced in working with clients who are experiencing intense levels of anxiety, PTSD, and episodes of low mood and depression. My core training is humanistic and I am also trained as an EMDR therapist. I am happy to meet online for a chat about what you are hoping to get from counselling sessions and see if you feel that we could work together towards your goals. I have lots of experience in helping clients to develop coping strategies.
01227 949957 View 01227 949957
Photo of Nikolett Megyeri, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Nikolett Megyeri
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Faversham ME13
Have you ever felt that nobody really gets you? Have you ever been thinking I just do not fit in? If only someone would understand you! I know how lonely that can feel. When we find ourselves making the same mistakes over and over again despite following advice from our family or friends, its time to reach out to someone who can give you a better understanding why do we make the choices we make and how can we break the cycle of bad decisions.
Have you ever felt that nobody really gets you? Have you ever been thinking I just do not fit in? If only someone would understand you! I know how lonely that can feel. When we find ourselves making the same mistakes over and over again despite following advice from our family or friends, its time to reach out to someone who can give you a better understanding why do we make the choices we make and how can we break the cycle of bad decisions.
01227 202239 View 01227 202239
Photo of Holly Hutchings, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Holly Hutchings
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Faversham ME13
I can work with issues such as; Depression and low mood, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety, Generalised Anxiety Disorder (chronic worry), Panic Disorder, Health Anxiety, Body Dysmorphic Disorder Phobias (including Agoraphobia, needle and blood phobias, and Emetophobia – fear of vomit), Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (including complex trauma), low self-esteem, perfectionism, difficulties with emotional regulation, stress, sleep difficulties, long-term difficulties stemming from childhood abuse and/or neglect
I can work with issues such as; Depression and low mood, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety, Generalised Anxiety Disorder (chronic worry), Panic Disorder, Health Anxiety, Body Dysmorphic Disorder Phobias (including Agoraphobia, needle and blood phobias, and Emetophobia – fear of vomit), Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (including complex trauma), low self-esteem, perfectionism, difficulties with emotional regulation, stress, sleep difficulties, long-term difficulties stemming from childhood abuse and/or neglect
01225 985704 View 01225 985704
Photo of Janet Bullen, MBACP, Counsellor
Janet Bullen
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Faversham ME13
Hi I am person centred counsellor, this means I accept and support you to explore ways to help you overcome any uncomfortable or traumatic emotions you may be experiencing. Sometimes we have experiences in life that can be overwhelming or we just can’t make sense of the events that may have happened to us. Many people may need answers from others and this may never happen, therefore exploring these questions within in a safe place can allow us to have acceptance to help start the healing process and give us back a sense of empowerment.
Hi I am person centred counsellor, this means I accept and support you to explore ways to help you overcome any uncomfortable or traumatic emotions you may be experiencing. Sometimes we have experiences in life that can be overwhelming or we just can’t make sense of the events that may have happened to us. Many people may need answers from others and this may never happen, therefore exploring these questions within in a safe place can allow us to have acceptance to help start the healing process and give us back a sense of empowerment.
07716 140370 View 07716 140370
Photo of Brian Leetham, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Brian Leetham
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Faversham ME13
I work using the pluralistic approach, this is to say that I treat each client as an individual, who will need an individual approach to therapy. We (the client and I) will work together and regularly assess the work in a way that recognises that different processes and approaches are needed to ensure the client gets the best possible tailored therapy. This improvement is further evidenced by completion of an evaluation tool (CORE) at the beginning and end of therapy. The client will have a graph depicting the scores and the difference the work has made.
I work using the pluralistic approach, this is to say that I treat each client as an individual, who will need an individual approach to therapy. We (the client and I) will work together and regularly assess the work in a way that recognises that different processes and approaches are needed to ensure the client gets the best possible tailored therapy. This improvement is further evidenced by completion of an evaluation tool (CORE) at the beginning and end of therapy. The client will have a graph depicting the scores and the difference the work has made.
01227 204513 View 01227 204513
Photo of Mark Howden Paine, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Mark Howden Paine
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Faversham ME13
I am a very experienced integrated therapist for both mental and physical issues. I work with both individuals and couples, offering help with the stresses of everyday life such as Anxiety, Anger and Depression as well as marriage guidance and a range of relationship problems. I can help with ongoing chronic issues such as addiction, abuse, past and present traumas and other concerns. I aim to tailor the style of therapy to suit your needs and encourage an initial session to assess how best to work with you.
I am a very experienced integrated therapist for both mental and physical issues. I work with both individuals and couples, offering help with the stresses of everyday life such as Anxiety, Anger and Depression as well as marriage guidance and a range of relationship problems. I can help with ongoing chronic issues such as addiction, abuse, past and present traumas and other concerns. I aim to tailor the style of therapy to suit your needs and encourage an initial session to assess how best to work with you.
01634 949990 View 01634 949990
Photo of Holly McCulloch, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap., Psychotherapist
Holly McCulloch
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Verified Verified
Faversham ME13
Hello! I support adults, children and young people to better understand themselves using a mixture of talking and creative therapy. Perhaps you struggle a lot with family conflict or an inner conflict where you are your worst critic. Maybe you or your child has had a recent ADHD or Autism diagnosis and you want some time and space to understand yourself better. You may want to improve your relationship with yourself and others or you're looking for support to unblock your creativity. Most importantly, you're looking to live a more playful, engaged and meaningful life.
Hello! I support adults, children and young people to better understand themselves using a mixture of talking and creative therapy. Perhaps you struggle a lot with family conflict or an inner conflict where you are your worst critic. Maybe you or your child has had a recent ADHD or Autism diagnosis and you want some time and space to understand yourself better. You may want to improve your relationship with yourself and others or you're looking for support to unblock your creativity. Most importantly, you're looking to live a more playful, engaged and meaningful life.
01227 230967 View 01227 230967

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dean Watkins, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Dean Watkins
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Sittingbourne ME10
Do you struggle with self-doubt and anxiety, feel like a fraud or impostor, worry that you're going to be "found out", and despite your successes and achievements you still feel the same. You may find yourself working harder and longer to try and appease the self-doubt, you may avoid opportunities due to the fear of failure, and can struggle with procrastination. Do you find yourself being self-critical, putting yourself under a lot of pressure to achieve, comparing yourself negatively to others, and overthinking. Do you want to break free from the impact of Impostor Syndrome, building confidence in yourself and living life fully?
Do you struggle with self-doubt and anxiety, feel like a fraud or impostor, worry that you're going to be "found out", and despite your successes and achievements you still feel the same. You may find yourself working harder and longer to try and appease the self-doubt, you may avoid opportunities due to the fear of failure, and can struggle with procrastination. Do you find yourself being self-critical, putting yourself under a lot of pressure to achieve, comparing yourself negatively to others, and overthinking. Do you want to break free from the impact of Impostor Syndrome, building confidence in yourself and living life fully?
01634 980433 View 01634 980433
Photo of Roger Newman, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Roger Newman
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitstable CT5
I have extensive experience of working within mental health and have practiced within the private (inpatient and outpatient), the NHS, and the Charity Sector. I am a BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist and also a qualified Human Givens and Compassion Focused Therapist. I integrate experiential psychotherapy within my CBT practice which incorporates mindfulness, Emotion Focused Therapy and Schema Therapy. The CFT approach has been shown to be highly effective to ‘non-responders of CBT’ and particularly if they experience high levels of shame/self-criticism.
I have extensive experience of working within mental health and have practiced within the private (inpatient and outpatient), the NHS, and the Charity Sector. I am a BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist and also a qualified Human Givens and Compassion Focused Therapist. I integrate experiential psychotherapy within my CBT practice which incorporates mindfulness, Emotion Focused Therapy and Schema Therapy. The CFT approach has been shown to be highly effective to ‘non-responders of CBT’ and particularly if they experience high levels of shame/self-criticism.
01227 532730 View 01227 532730
Photo of Georgette Anderson, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Georgette Anderson
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Canterbury CT1  (Online Only)
Welcome to my profile page. I appreciate that taking those first steps to see a therapist can be scary. We may have fears of being judged, concerns that it might not work out, and with so many therapists out there how do we pick the right one?! These are all perfectly normal thoughts and feelings to have. I will provide a non judgmental, safe space to help you explore the relationship between your thoughts, feelings and behaviours, to help you reach your goals. I have over 15 years experience working in mental health and substance misuse services and am fully accredited with the BABCP.
Welcome to my profile page. I appreciate that taking those first steps to see a therapist can be scary. We may have fears of being judged, concerns that it might not work out, and with so many therapists out there how do we pick the right one?! These are all perfectly normal thoughts and feelings to have. I will provide a non judgmental, safe space to help you explore the relationship between your thoughts, feelings and behaviours, to help you reach your goals. I have over 15 years experience working in mental health and substance misuse services and am fully accredited with the BABCP.
01227 532382 View 01227 532382
Photo of Jolene Broad, MA, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Jolene Broad
Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Canterbury CT1
People often say they wonder if their issues are ‘enough’ to seek therapy. I say that ‘If it bothers you then that is ‘enough’ to seek therapy.’ The relationship between you and your therapist is unique, one you won't experience anywhere else, and one where you are at the heart. I am separate from your social circles & family, and I won’t judge, give my opinion or give advice. Together we can create a space that is entirely focused on you and what you need. I am committed to building a relationship with you that will allow you to be honest, open, honest and feel safe enough to explore yourself, your world and your problems.
People often say they wonder if their issues are ‘enough’ to seek therapy. I say that ‘If it bothers you then that is ‘enough’ to seek therapy.’ The relationship between you and your therapist is unique, one you won't experience anywhere else, and one where you are at the heart. I am separate from your social circles & family, and I won’t judge, give my opinion or give advice. Together we can create a space that is entirely focused on you and what you need. I am committed to building a relationship with you that will allow you to be honest, open, honest and feel safe enough to explore yourself, your world and your problems.
01225 234128 View 01225 234128
Photo of Charlotte A Smith - Bulb Therapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Bulb Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sittingbourne ME10
Firstly I would like to show my admiration for you making this courageous decision to look for help. I know how it feels to be stuck within the world, within yourself. To suffer great sadness and hopelessness. I too, once sat in the client's chair and can appreciate, how significant taking this first step is... Relationships, connections are so powerful within our world. Have you ever thought about the relationship you have with yourself? At Bulb Therapy , I walk alongside you, providing you a safe space to find new meanings, and a greater awareness of who you are and how together we can tackle your difficulties effectively.
Firstly I would like to show my admiration for you making this courageous decision to look for help. I know how it feels to be stuck within the world, within yourself. To suffer great sadness and hopelessness. I too, once sat in the client's chair and can appreciate, how significant taking this first step is... Relationships, connections are so powerful within our world. Have you ever thought about the relationship you have with yourself? At Bulb Therapy , I walk alongside you, providing you a safe space to find new meanings, and a greater awareness of who you are and how together we can tackle your difficulties effectively.
01634 540369 View 01634 540369
Photo of Michelle Painter, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Michelle Painter
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Canterbury CT1
I am a compassionate and approachable Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 30 years’ experience of working in mental health, both in the NHS and in private practice. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking expert psychological assessment and therapy for a wide range of mental health difficulties (e.g.anxiety, depression, stress, panic attacks, low self-esteem, relationship problems, bullying, OCD, psychosis, bipolar disorder, self-harm, regulation of emotions, trauma or stemming from being autistic or having difficulties with attention, organisation and/or hyperactivity (ADHD). I also provide adult ADHD assessments.
I am a compassionate and approachable Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 30 years’ experience of working in mental health, both in the NHS and in private practice. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking expert psychological assessment and therapy for a wide range of mental health difficulties (e.g.anxiety, depression, stress, panic attacks, low self-esteem, relationship problems, bullying, OCD, psychosis, bipolar disorder, self-harm, regulation of emotions, trauma or stemming from being autistic or having difficulties with attention, organisation and/or hyperactivity (ADHD). I also provide adult ADHD assessments.
01843 265423 View 01843 265423
Photo of Lesley Neale, MBACP, Counsellor
Lesley Neale
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Canterbury CT1
With a passion for helping those experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, loss of personal identity and low mood, my counselling training, experiences and background in health and well-being provides me with the understanding of how important it is to work with others in a way best suited to their needs. I am able to use individually tailored, methods helping clients rediscover their core values & beliefs, empowering them to be self-assured and have confidence in achieving their goals. Expectations from society & others can put pressure on us to be who they think we should be, leading us to lose touch with our core values and beliefs.
With a passion for helping those experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, loss of personal identity and low mood, my counselling training, experiences and background in health and well-being provides me with the understanding of how important it is to work with others in a way best suited to their needs. I am able to use individually tailored, methods helping clients rediscover their core values & beliefs, empowering them to be self-assured and have confidence in achieving their goals. Expectations from society & others can put pressure on us to be who they think we should be, leading us to lose touch with our core values and beliefs.
01304 796768 View 01304 796768
Photo of Beth Lindsay West, MSc, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Beth Lindsay West
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Canterbury CT1
I am a qualified CBT therapist. My approach is both adaptive and solution orientated and works best for people who want to change how they are feeling, thinking and behaving. I can help you manage distressing emotions by changing your unhealthy thought patterns and replacing any unhelpful, destructive and self-sabotaging behaviours you may have developed with healthy, helpful practices. My approach is to help you develop a deeper understanding of who you are and why you do the things you do. I will help you develop a sense of self-respect and recognise you are stronger than you think.
I am a qualified CBT therapist. My approach is both adaptive and solution orientated and works best for people who want to change how they are feeling, thinking and behaving. I can help you manage distressing emotions by changing your unhealthy thought patterns and replacing any unhelpful, destructive and self-sabotaging behaviours you may have developed with healthy, helpful practices. My approach is to help you develop a deeper understanding of who you are and why you do the things you do. I will help you develop a sense of self-respect and recognise you are stronger than you think.
01580 234650 View 01580 234650
Photo of Helen Hadlow, MBACP, Counsellor
Helen Hadlow
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Canterbury CT1
I hold a BA(Hons) in integrative relational counselling and a registered member of BACP. I have a number of years of experience working in the charity and private sector, supporting clients with a wide range of emotional issues. ​ At the heart of my counselling practice is the aim to provide a space where you can come to breathe, to be, and find unconditional acceptance, positive reflection and discover alternative narratives and perspectives for yourself. A relationship that enables that to occur, allows for the development of self-awareness, self- acceptance, hope and healing.
I hold a BA(Hons) in integrative relational counselling and a registered member of BACP. I have a number of years of experience working in the charity and private sector, supporting clients with a wide range of emotional issues. ​ At the heart of my counselling practice is the aim to provide a space where you can come to breathe, to be, and find unconditional acceptance, positive reflection and discover alternative narratives and perspectives for yourself. A relationship that enables that to occur, allows for the development of self-awareness, self- acceptance, hope and healing.
01227 931091 View 01227 931091

See more therapy options for Faversham

Compassion Focused Counsellors

How does compassion-focused therapy work?

Compassion-Focused Therapy is based on the idea that humans have at least three emotion regulation systems, including one that responds to threats and another that allows us to self-soothe. Those who experienced serious childhood adversity, the theory goes, have a hyperactive threat system and an underperforming self-soothing system, leaving them vulnerable to shame and a hypercritical mindset. CFT focuses on bringing these systems back into balance, helping the client be kinder to themselves and better able to accept kindness from others.

Is compassion-focused therapy a type of CBT?

Compassion-focused therapy is closely related to cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and employs many of its techniques. In addition to CBT, CFT also draws from the fields of biology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and Buddhism. It also has similarities to some types of trauma-focused therapies.

Is compassion-focused therapy evidence based?

Evidence suggests that CFT can be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. It has also been shown to be beneficial for individuals who may not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but who still struggle with persistent self-criticism and feelings of shame.

What are the limitations of compassion-focused therapy?

Compassion-focused therapy is still a relatively new therapy, and research on its efficacy is still in its early stages; while some studies have found positive results, many have suffered from quality issues or small sample sizes. And while most CFT clients find it difficult to practice self-compassion at first, some—especially those who actively fear compassion or are deeply uncomfortable being cared for—may not be fully open to the tenets of CFT, potentially limiting the therapy’s long-term effectiveness.