Compassion Focused Psychiatrists in Virginia Beach, VA
![Photo of Valmy Fotendong, FNP-BC, PMNHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c771e3e-5753-4a46-8634-8750732ae503/1/320x400.jpeg)
Valmy Fotendong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMNHP
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23464 (Online Only)
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a strong foundation in nursing, I bring a dynamic approach to mental health care. My experience and interpersonal skills enable me to connect with patients from all walks of life, providing compassionate, confidential, and effective treatment.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a strong foundation in nursing, I bring a dynamic approach to mental health care. My experience and interpersonal skills enable me to connect with patients from all walks of life, providing compassionate, confidential, and effective treatment.
![Photo of Olivia Reichenbacker - Brookside Psychiatric Specialists PLLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14bbd82f-9cd6-418f-b432-982a79f57b5d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brookside Psychiatric Specialists PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
New clients welcome! Are you a mom or soon to be mom who just isn't feeling like yourself? Are you feeling sad or empty and can’t figure out why? Are you having scary thoughts about something happening to your baby or children? You’re not alone. These are signs of depression and anxiety which are very common during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. You don’t need to wonder if it’s normal or try and get better on your own, and you don’t need to feel scared to tell someone what you’re going through. Treatment can help and there are specialized providers who understand your unique struggles.
New clients welcome! Are you a mom or soon to be mom who just isn't feeling like yourself? Are you feeling sad or empty and can’t figure out why? Are you having scary thoughts about something happening to your baby or children? You’re not alone. These are signs of depression and anxiety which are very common during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. You don’t need to wonder if it’s normal or try and get better on your own, and you don’t need to feel scared to tell someone what you’re going through. Treatment can help and there are specialized providers who understand your unique struggles.
![Photo of Dr. Jamie Holland, DNP, PMHNP, AGCNS, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e2b1a48-ee1a-43cd-8287-99f877030bdb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jamie Holland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGCNS, RN
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Dr. Holland IS CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENT and can help you start feel like yourself again within days. She takes your psychiatric care beyond the norm, leaving you feel heard, supported and truly cared for. Her multiple advanced practice nursing certificates from the University of Virginia and Old Dominion University and additional specialized training from Harvard University and other expert sources, provides her with many tools to collaboratively create a customized plan to help you manage difficult seasons, maintain your health, and get back to being yourself, as quickly as possible!
Dr. Holland IS CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENT and can help you start feel like yourself again within days. She takes your psychiatric care beyond the norm, leaving you feel heard, supported and truly cared for. Her multiple advanced practice nursing certificates from the University of Virginia and Old Dominion University and additional specialized training from Harvard University and other expert sources, provides her with many tools to collaboratively create a customized plan to help you manage difficult seasons, maintain your health, and get back to being yourself, as quickly as possible!
![Photo of Khaleelah Ishmael Pope, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8afe602-f96c-42c5-8be6-6713c86b8a25/2/320x400.jpeg)
Khaleelah Ishmael Pope
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Online Only)
Khaleelah provides services for psychiatric care for patients across the lifespan (ages 5-60). Khaleelah is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive years of service in the mental health field. Identifying the need for additional providers in the mental health field, Khaleelah paired her passion of psychology and physical sciences to further support the need for mental health providers. During her career path, Khaleelah has worked in various capacities as a mental health provider, to include, adolescent group home counselor, behavior specialist, psychiatric nurse, medication mngmt.
Khaleelah provides services for psychiatric care for patients across the lifespan (ages 5-60). Khaleelah is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive years of service in the mental health field. Identifying the need for additional providers in the mental health field, Khaleelah paired her passion of psychology and physical sciences to further support the need for mental health providers. During her career path, Khaleelah has worked in various capacities as a mental health provider, to include, adolescent group home counselor, behavior specialist, psychiatric nurse, medication mngmt.
![Photo of Mariam Bouanane-Smith, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d960a0a-f98d-488d-b045-03d8da0c2afb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mariam Bouanane-Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Now accepting NEW Clients. Hello, my name is Mariam Bouanane-Smith, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about providing personalized and empathetic mental healthcare to individuals from diverse backgrounds. I have had the privilege of working with people from all walks of life in various settings, helping individuals of all ages overcome mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I believe every person deserves compassionate and effective mental healthcare.
Now accepting NEW Clients. Hello, my name is Mariam Bouanane-Smith, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about providing personalized and empathetic mental healthcare to individuals from diverse backgrounds. I have had the privilege of working with people from all walks of life in various settings, helping individuals of all ages overcome mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I believe every person deserves compassionate and effective mental healthcare.
![Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa972bf6-2cc3-4d08-a27b-358ca1277ab3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23455 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
![Photo of Morgan E. Foster - Fiore Psychiatry, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af3f3314-72ad-4603-b6b7-16b1f072c964/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fiore Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Choosing treatment for mental health is tough - I'm here to help guide you step by step in the process. With 9 years of experience in the psychiatric nursing field prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I gained tons of meaningful experiences helping treat mental illnesses across the entire lifespan, from toddlers to the elderly. I treat each person in an integrative style, meaning I don't just believe in Western medicine, and create a treatment plan that will fit THEM.
Choosing treatment for mental health is tough - I'm here to help guide you step by step in the process. With 9 years of experience in the psychiatric nursing field prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I gained tons of meaningful experiences helping treat mental illnesses across the entire lifespan, from toddlers to the elderly. I treat each person in an integrative style, meaning I don't just believe in Western medicine, and create a treatment plan that will fit THEM.
![Photo of Temiloluwa O Ilesanmi, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e48b7718-67d0-4cd4-b433-9e6339a6f2b5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Temiloluwa O Ilesanmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23464 (Online Only)
At Mindfulvision Psychiatry LLC, we understand that each individual’s mental health journey is unique and deserves a tailored approach. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or any other mental health condition, our telehealth services are designed to meet you where you are, offering convenient and compassionate care from the comfort of your home. We recognize the importance of feeling understood and supported, and we are committed to providing a safe space where you can express your concerns and work towards a healthier state of mind.
At Mindfulvision Psychiatry LLC, we understand that each individual’s mental health journey is unique and deserves a tailored approach. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or any other mental health condition, our telehealth services are designed to meet you where you are, offering convenient and compassionate care from the comfort of your home. We recognize the importance of feeling understood and supported, and we are committed to providing a safe space where you can express your concerns and work towards a healthier state of mind.
![Photo of Monica Riffey, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/383d4149-dd94-49ce-bfb1-df1a17e960eb/2/320x400.png)
Monica Riffey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Dr. Riffey is currently accepting NEW patients, with quick wait times. As a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience, I specialize in guiding individuals through life's many challenges. I work with you to identify and treat mental health disorders, like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and ADHD. I enjoy working with my clients to improve their to create treatment plans that work for you! I offer compassionate and personalized sessions, in-person and virtually to help you on your journey to wellness. My approach is warm, personalized, evidence-based, and focused on your unique needs.
Dr. Riffey is currently accepting NEW patients, with quick wait times. As a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience, I specialize in guiding individuals through life's many challenges. I work with you to identify and treat mental health disorders, like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and ADHD. I enjoy working with my clients to improve their to create treatment plans that work for you! I offer compassionate and personalized sessions, in-person and virtually to help you on your journey to wellness. My approach is warm, personalized, evidence-based, and focused on your unique needs.
![Photo of Shirley Hudson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1837ca9-550a-4547-bbda-941b886cdbe4/1/320x400.png)
Shirley Hudson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Online Only)
Shirley Hudson is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) who is passionate about providing evidence-based and personalized care to adult clients. She began her health career treating patients in various settings including spinal cord injury, intensive care, hematology, oncology, and medical-surgical units. As a Christian, Shirley understands there is still a stigma attached to mental illness in many churches. She also has a mission to reduce the stigma of psychiatric disorders by educating clients, families, and the community about mental health disorders.
Shirley Hudson is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) who is passionate about providing evidence-based and personalized care to adult clients. She began her health career treating patients in various settings including spinal cord injury, intensive care, hematology, oncology, and medical-surgical units. As a Christian, Shirley understands there is still a stigma attached to mental illness in many churches. She also has a mission to reduce the stigma of psychiatric disorders by educating clients, families, and the community about mental health disorders.
![Photo of Markus Ploesser - Open Mind Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87d8d624-f0a7-4ab4-a7ce-34db3ab1c103/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emotional challenges and mental illness do not discriminate. No matter your race, orientation, gender, or religion, you matter. We at Open Mind Health offer a diverse group of providers who specialize in helping others find relief from a full spectrum of challenges. We offer 21 customized Wellness Tracks that address core symptoms, core life domains, & diverse populations to get the roots of emotional challenges – no one-size fits all or band aid approaches. We assess and advance your Personal Evolution so that you can become your best self. 96% of our clients rate their experience with Open Mind Health as Excellent or Very Good.
Emotional challenges and mental illness do not discriminate. No matter your race, orientation, gender, or religion, you matter. We at Open Mind Health offer a diverse group of providers who specialize in helping others find relief from a full spectrum of challenges. We offer 21 customized Wellness Tracks that address core symptoms, core life domains, & diverse populations to get the roots of emotional challenges – no one-size fits all or band aid approaches. We assess and advance your Personal Evolution so that you can become your best self. 96% of our clients rate their experience with Open Mind Health as Excellent or Very Good.
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Wykemia Swan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Online Only)
Wykemia Swan is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of nursing experience. She has spent most of that time working in behavioral health care, collaborating with patients to improve their mental health by providing education on disease process, medication use, effectiveness, and support with their overall well-being.
Wykemia Swan is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of nursing experience. She has spent most of that time working in behavioral health care, collaborating with patients to improve their mental health by providing education on disease process, medication use, effectiveness, and support with their overall well-being.
![Photo of Juanita Burtt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/916c8802-5d99-41b3-a16b-64f7fbdd4de4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Juanita Burtt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Online Only)
Juanita Burtt is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in depression, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, insomnia, and many other mental health conditions. She has over 14 years of experience in various medical settings as a registered nurse working in mental health in both an inpatient and outpatient setting. Juanita has also been privileged to service both Military and Civilian individuals. Juanita is confident that her previous roles providing mental healthcare have shaped her into the compassionate, empathetic, patient-centered psychiatric provider that she is today.
Juanita Burtt is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in depression, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, insomnia, and many other mental health conditions. She has over 14 years of experience in various medical settings as a registered nurse working in mental health in both an inpatient and outpatient setting. Juanita has also been privileged to service both Military and Civilian individuals. Juanita is confident that her previous roles providing mental healthcare have shaped her into the compassionate, empathetic, patient-centered psychiatric provider that she is today.
![Photo of Marci Bowen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/559f5ec9-2099-47be-b25c-2a98af2976a5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marci Bowen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
**Currently accepting new clients for, medication management, on a case-by-case basis** Life can be difficult and challenge us in many ways. Sometimes we are unable to just “shake it off” or “try harder” to not feel a certain way. That’s where I come in. I believe in working as a team to gain symptom control and get life back on track. Medications are beneficial to manage acute symptoms while the real foundational work is done in therapy. I approach each client holistically and tailor care to your specific needs. If you're ready to do the work then I'm here for the journey.
**Currently accepting new clients for, medication management, on a case-by-case basis** Life can be difficult and challenge us in many ways. Sometimes we are unable to just “shake it off” or “try harder” to not feel a certain way. That’s where I come in. I believe in working as a team to gain symptom control and get life back on track. Medications are beneficial to manage acute symptoms while the real foundational work is done in therapy. I approach each client holistically and tailor care to your specific needs. If you're ready to do the work then I'm here for the journey.
![Photo of Michele Davidson, PhD, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C, CFN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b35175a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Davidson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C, CFN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Accepting New Patients: I am passionate about partnering with patients and their families to work together to address mental health conditions along with life transition issues. I work with women and men of all ages with various mental health issues, including pregnant and postpartum women. I use a combination of coaching, therapy, medication management, and goal setting to help patients develop a plan of care based on their goals. As a nurse midwife, I have expertise in women's mental health issues. I also have expertise in treating adults transitioning to college or the workforce and adults in role transition.
Accepting New Patients: I am passionate about partnering with patients and their families to work together to address mental health conditions along with life transition issues. I work with women and men of all ages with various mental health issues, including pregnant and postpartum women. I use a combination of coaching, therapy, medication management, and goal setting to help patients develop a plan of care based on their goals. As a nurse midwife, I have expertise in women's mental health issues. I also have expertise in treating adults transitioning to college or the workforce and adults in role transition.
![Photo of Christina Stevenson - Virtuous Total Wellness, DNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/731c1d94-deff-4b7b-9edc-d0f9a5880615/1/320x400.jpeg)
Virtuous Total Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23450 (Online Only)
My ideal patient is one with a motivation to improve their current mindset, situation, emotions, and lifestyle. I am specifically well-educated in managing depression, weight loss/obesity, time management, goal-setting initiatives and more! Come prepared to do the required work. I am not your "typical" provider, as I use a less "formal" and more personable approach!
My ideal patient is one with a motivation to improve their current mindset, situation, emotions, and lifestyle. I am specifically well-educated in managing depression, weight loss/obesity, time management, goal-setting initiatives and more! Come prepared to do the required work. I am not your "typical" provider, as I use a less "formal" and more personable approach!
![Photo of Shahauna Mallery, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73566c61-b04b-4e6e-b77b-113d714fd229/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shahauna Mallery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Shahauna is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. She worked as a psychiatric RN for many years prior to becoming a psychiatric NP. This experience has provided her with a unique perspective and a multitude of resources during treatment planning.
Shahauna is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. She worked as a psychiatric RN for many years prior to becoming a psychiatric NP. This experience has provided her with a unique perspective and a multitude of resources during treatment planning.
![Photo of Lynn Wolf - Lynn Wolf | Women's Mental Health Specialist, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/868889bc-6a5c-41cc-924d-9d670fbf1edd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lynn Wolf | Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Online Only)
Is anxiety taking over your life and making you feel stuck or unfulfilled? Maybe it's highlighting deeper issues like strained relationships, a lack of recognition at work, or a sense of disconnection. It’s common to feel overwhelmed and unsure of the cause. I’m here to help you uncover what your anxiety is really telling you and to guide you towards finding balance and peace. Together, we’ll explore these feelings and work towards a more satisfying and connected life.
Is anxiety taking over your life and making you feel stuck or unfulfilled? Maybe it's highlighting deeper issues like strained relationships, a lack of recognition at work, or a sense of disconnection. It’s common to feel overwhelmed and unsure of the cause. I’m here to help you uncover what your anxiety is really telling you and to guide you towards finding balance and peace. Together, we’ll explore these feelings and work towards a more satisfying and connected life.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Arlene S Quijano, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6089a50-d1ef-4d95-926f-f104453c51e9/1/320x400.png)
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification, with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification, with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Olayemi A Adurota - Luminox Healthcare Services, LLC, DNP, PMHNP, FNP- C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25beb18e-aa39-4023-a4b6-1696cce0c5f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Luminox Healthcare Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP- C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23233 (Online Only)
Are you feeling weighed down by persistent depression? Struggling to manage mood swings or find the right medication balance? If you're seeking a supportive path to better mental health, now is the time to connect with a caring professional. At Luminox, we offer personalized, HIPAA-compliant telemedicine services tailored to your unique needs, helping you take the next step toward stability and well-being.
Are you feeling weighed down by persistent depression? Struggling to manage mood swings or find the right medication balance? If you're seeking a supportive path to better mental health, now is the time to connect with a caring professional. At Luminox, we offer personalized, HIPAA-compliant telemedicine services tailored to your unique needs, helping you take the next step toward stability and well-being.
See more therapy options for Virginia Beach
Nearby Compassion Focused Psychiatrists Searches for Virginia Beach
See More Compassion Focused PsychiatristsNearby Searches for Virginia Beach
See More PsychiatristsCompassion Focused Psychiatrists
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-behavioral 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.