Compassion Focused Therapists in New York, NY

Photo of David Rust, LCSW-R, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Rust
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CCM
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
My name is David, and I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified case manager with 14 years of experience in the medical and mental health field. I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from Stony Brook University, specializing in healthcare, and a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University at Albany, where I graduated with high honors from the School of Social Welfare. Throughout my career, I have devoted myself to helping clients overcome life's struggles in the healthcare and mental health industry. I am licensed in NY, FL and NJ.
My name is David, and I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified case manager with 14 years of experience in the medical and mental health field. I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from Stony Brook University, specializing in healthcare, and a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University at Albany, where I graduated with high honors from the School of Social Welfare. Throughout my career, I have devoted myself to helping clients overcome life's struggles in the healthcare and mental health industry. I am licensed in NY, FL and NJ.
(929) 262-6247 View (929) 262-6247
Photo of Colleen Pearson, PsyD, Psychologist
Colleen Pearson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10006  (Online Only)
I use Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment, Cognitive Behavioral, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
The world can feel overwhelming. Especially at a time where everything in both personal life and professional life is in flux. How do you adjust the changes outside of your control? Are you struggling with unwanted thoughts, feelings, or ideas? Has anxiety taken over so much of your head that you don’t know what would be left if it fell silent?
I use Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment, Cognitive Behavioral, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
The world can feel overwhelming. Especially at a time where everything in both personal life and professional life is in flux. How do you adjust the changes outside of your control? Are you struggling with unwanted thoughts, feelings, or ideas? Has anxiety taken over so much of your head that you don’t know what would be left if it fell silent?
(646) 916-4781 View (646) 916-4781
Photo of Jenna Klein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10075  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents coping with anxiety, depressive moods, life transitions and relationship issues. I often work with individuals who are struggling with overthinking, who find themselves becoming easily overwhelmed and stressed, or who may be highly ambitious, but that perfectionism or self-criticism gets in their way. I strive to create a compassion focused, collaborative and integrative space utilizing evidence based modalities, combined with influences from my holistic background and ongoing trainings.
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents coping with anxiety, depressive moods, life transitions and relationship issues. I often work with individuals who are struggling with overthinking, who find themselves becoming easily overwhelmed and stressed, or who may be highly ambitious, but that perfectionism or self-criticism gets in their way. I strive to create a compassion focused, collaborative and integrative space utilizing evidence based modalities, combined with influences from my holistic background and ongoing trainings.
(646) 921-9957 View (646) 921-9957
Photo of Ting Mandel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ting Mandel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
I have extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral, Compassion Focused, and Emotionally Focused Therapies; Motivational Interviewing; Prolonged Exposure, and Exposure Response Prevention for OCD.
I focus my practice on managing anxiety, depression, anger, relational conflict, substance abuse, personality disorders, trauma, and impulsive behavior. I specialize in populations affected by minority stress, including stigma associated with ethnic, gender, and sexual identities. I take a non-judgemental and compassionate stance with my clients. By attuning to their unique needs, I help clients understand the cause of their suffering and pain and work to help them facilitate change in pursuit of a life that feels authentic, valued, and worth living
I have extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral, Compassion Focused, and Emotionally Focused Therapies; Motivational Interviewing; Prolonged Exposure, and Exposure Response Prevention for OCD.
I focus my practice on managing anxiety, depression, anger, relational conflict, substance abuse, personality disorders, trauma, and impulsive behavior. I specialize in populations affected by minority stress, including stigma associated with ethnic, gender, and sexual identities. I take a non-judgemental and compassionate stance with my clients. By attuning to their unique needs, I help clients understand the cause of their suffering and pain and work to help them facilitate change in pursuit of a life that feels authentic, valued, and worth living
(914) 252-3920 View (914) 252-3920
Photo of Michelle Li, MA, MHC-LP
Michelle Li
MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10012
I firmly believe that “not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” I am dedicated to creating a safe space for you to be vulnerable and sit with your experiences. As you lead the journey, I am here to offer the unconditional compassion, validation, and acceptance that you deserve. While therapy may be difficult and uncomfortable at times, it is often in these moments that we experience the most meaningful change. I aim to create an environment where you can develop a true, authentic self; one that serves as a safe base for exploring your true self.
I firmly believe that “not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” I am dedicated to creating a safe space for you to be vulnerable and sit with your experiences. As you lead the journey, I am here to offer the unconditional compassion, validation, and acceptance that you deserve. While therapy may be difficult and uncomfortable at times, it is often in these moments that we experience the most meaningful change. I aim to create an environment where you can develop a true, authentic self; one that serves as a safe base for exploring your true self.
(646) 687-2765 View (646) 687-2765
Photo of Kristine Troescher, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Kristine Troescher
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10036  (Online Only)
Most of my focus and experience has been in private practice working with people living with anxiety, depression and mood disorders. I favor an integrative approach of CBT and psychodynamic therapies. I am a compassion-focused therapist and draw on motivational interviewing, mindfulness practices and psychoeducation. Some common challenges I work with are low motivation, low self-esteem, people-pleasing behavior/setting boundaries, an overactive mind, vulnerability/communication issues and low mood. What works for one will not work for all as everyone is complex so interventions used are tailored to each client's goals and needs.
Most of my focus and experience has been in private practice working with people living with anxiety, depression and mood disorders. I favor an integrative approach of CBT and psychodynamic therapies. I am a compassion-focused therapist and draw on motivational interviewing, mindfulness practices and psychoeducation. Some common challenges I work with are low motivation, low self-esteem, people-pleasing behavior/setting boundaries, an overactive mind, vulnerability/communication issues and low mood. What works for one will not work for all as everyone is complex so interventions used are tailored to each client's goals and needs.
(631) 250-8553 View (631) 250-8553
Photo of Megan (Gem) Moran, MA, LMHC, RYT-200, Counselor
Megan (Gem) Moran
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10004  (Online Only)
I specialize in holistic psychotherapy, with years of training and experience helping individuals and couples heal with techniques including Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Mindfulness and Meditation, Interpersonal Therapy, DBT, CBT, IFS, yogic philosophies, and more.
I am on your side. I provide a safe and nurturing therapy relationship dedicated entirely to your healing and happiness. I work with people to transform issues around anxiety, sadness, unwanted patterns, change, feeling stuck, difficult emotions & moods, dissatisfaction, relationship issues, anger, boundaries, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, illness, abuse, isolation, addiction, career, family, sexuality, and more. I am in network with some insurances and I am happy to supply you with documentation for out-of-network coverage/reimbursement.
I specialize in holistic psychotherapy, with years of training and experience helping individuals and couples heal with techniques including Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Mindfulness and Meditation, Interpersonal Therapy, DBT, CBT, IFS, yogic philosophies, and more.
I am on your side. I provide a safe and nurturing therapy relationship dedicated entirely to your healing and happiness. I work with people to transform issues around anxiety, sadness, unwanted patterns, change, feeling stuck, difficult emotions & moods, dissatisfaction, relationship issues, anger, boundaries, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, illness, abuse, isolation, addiction, career, family, sexuality, and more. I am in network with some insurances and I am happy to supply you with documentation for out-of-network coverage/reimbursement.
(646) 681-7475 View (646) 681-7475
Photo of Jessica MacDonald, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica MacDonald
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10014  (Online Only)
As a clinical psychologist, I specialize in helping adults make positive changes in their lives. Through the use of CBT, ACT, and compassion-focused therapy, I can help you address a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, imposter syndrome, work stress, challenges with dating, and challenges with wedding planning. Let's work together to help you achieve your goals and live a happier, more fulfilling life.
As a clinical psychologist, I specialize in helping adults make positive changes in their lives. Through the use of CBT, ACT, and compassion-focused therapy, I can help you address a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, imposter syndrome, work stress, challenges with dating, and challenges with wedding planning. Let's work together to help you achieve your goals and live a happier, more fulfilling life.
(704) 753-8669 View (704) 753-8669
Photo of Samantha Wilson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10013  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker who believes in the power of understanding ones own story. I do not believe that you are “broken,” or that you need “fixing.” I use a combination of mindfulness, strength-based, and compassion-focused approaches to empower my clients to re-claim parts of their story and achieve self-acceptance. I strive to help clients interpret past experiences and to unburden emotional pain, which can improve your relationships, help you achieve your goals, and improve your overall quality of life.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who believes in the power of understanding ones own story. I do not believe that you are “broken,” or that you need “fixing.” I use a combination of mindfulness, strength-based, and compassion-focused approaches to empower my clients to re-claim parts of their story and achieve self-acceptance. I strive to help clients interpret past experiences and to unburden emotional pain, which can improve your relationships, help you achieve your goals, and improve your overall quality of life.
(332) 895-2792 View (332) 895-2792
Photo of Anita Aasen, LCSWR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Aasen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10151  (Online Only)
I am a licensed counselor working primarily with adults moving through life transitions such as divorce, career changes, the passing of a loved one, retirement, and wanting to change their relationship with substances. Life transitions, even positive ones, can leave us feeling alone, stuck, confused, anxious, and even, despairing. I also help those struggling with loss and grief. My treatment with you will be tailored to your goals, preferences, and desired outcomes for therapy. I treat each of my clients with respect and provide an atmosphere full of safety and free of judgment.
I am a licensed counselor working primarily with adults moving through life transitions such as divorce, career changes, the passing of a loved one, retirement, and wanting to change their relationship with substances. Life transitions, even positive ones, can leave us feeling alone, stuck, confused, anxious, and even, despairing. I also help those struggling with loss and grief. My treatment with you will be tailored to your goals, preferences, and desired outcomes for therapy. I treat each of my clients with respect and provide an atmosphere full of safety and free of judgment.
(332) 239-1468 View (332) 239-1468
Photo of Jennifer Rooney, LMHC, MS, CDF
Jennifer Rooney
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MS, CDF
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I approach to the therapeutic process in a holistic, creative, and collaborative way. I work with individuals, families, and couples through infusing evidence-based practices for EMDR, CBT, DBT, compassion-focused, mindfulness and is person/goal centered.
I approach to the therapeutic process in a holistic, creative, and collaborative way. I work with individuals, families, and couples through infusing evidence-based practices for EMDR, CBT, DBT, compassion-focused, mindfulness and is person/goal centered.
(929) 412-2024 View (929) 412-2024
Photo of Katerina Kouliaki, LMHC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Katerina Kouliaki
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
A Bilingual (English-Greek) Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing in a strengths based, client centered and compassion focused approach.
Are you looking for personal growth free from negative thinking, depression, anxiety, insomnia, relationship issues, stress management, postpartum anxiety and depression, loss or what might seem to be a complicated grief? If everyday life has become overwhelming, there is always help. As long as you reach out! I am licensed to provide therapy for NY, NJ, CT, MA residents. Στην αναζήτησή σου για προσωπική ανάπτυξη και στήριξη σε θέματα κατάθλιψης, άγχους, διαταραχών ύπνου, προβλήματα σχέσεων, γονιμότητας, επιλόχειας κατάθλιψης, ή πένθος μπορείς να ελπίζεις πάντα σε βοήθεια στην καινούρια σου πατρίδα και στην μητρική σου γλώσσα!
A Bilingual (English-Greek) Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing in a strengths based, client centered and compassion focused approach.
Are you looking for personal growth free from negative thinking, depression, anxiety, insomnia, relationship issues, stress management, postpartum anxiety and depression, loss or what might seem to be a complicated grief? If everyday life has become overwhelming, there is always help. As long as you reach out! I am licensed to provide therapy for NY, NJ, CT, MA residents. Στην αναζήτησή σου για προσωπική ανάπτυξη και στήριξη σε θέματα κατάθλιψης, άγχους, διαταραχών ύπνου, προβλήματα σχέσεων, γονιμότητας, επιλόχειας κατάθλιψης, ή πένθος μπορείς να ελπίζεις πάντα σε βοήθεια στην καινούρια σου πατρίδα και στην μητρική σου γλώσσα!
(917) 688-2658 View (917) 688-2658
Photo of Carrie Hunter, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carrie Hunter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you often feel weighed down by shame, anxiety, or the belief that you're not good enough? Are you hard on yourself, struggling to show compassion or love to the person who needs it most—yourself? If life feels overwhelming and relationships feel strained, I’m here to help. Together, we can work on releasing the burden of self-criticism, building your self-esteem, and fostering a deeper sense of compassion for yourself. I support individuals navigating trauma, stress, anxiety, and relationship issues. My passion lies in helping young adults through life’s transitions, guiding them toward emotional well-being and self-acceptance.
Do you often feel weighed down by shame, anxiety, or the belief that you're not good enough? Are you hard on yourself, struggling to show compassion or love to the person who needs it most—yourself? If life feels overwhelming and relationships feel strained, I’m here to help. Together, we can work on releasing the burden of self-criticism, building your self-esteem, and fostering a deeper sense of compassion for yourself. I support individuals navigating trauma, stress, anxiety, and relationship issues. My passion lies in helping young adults through life’s transitions, guiding them toward emotional well-being and self-acceptance.
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Photo of Michael Cannistraci, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Cannistraci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
Many of us find ourselves feeling stuck, frustrated or unfulfilled in our relationships, work or life path. Talking to a friend or family member may be a good start but, at times, cannot create a safe, supportive distance to work through what is troubling us. In my clinical work, I offer a safe and supportive environment in which to understand yourself, what's getting in the way in your life now, and explore new ways of coping and understanding life's challenges. I believe real change takes place in the moment-to-moment collaboration between therapist and client.
Many of us find ourselves feeling stuck, frustrated or unfulfilled in our relationships, work or life path. Talking to a friend or family member may be a good start but, at times, cannot create a safe, supportive distance to work through what is troubling us. In my clinical work, I offer a safe and supportive environment in which to understand yourself, what's getting in the way in your life now, and explore new ways of coping and understanding life's challenges. I believe real change takes place in the moment-to-moment collaboration between therapist and client.
(646) 760-4911 View (646) 760-4911
Photo of Dr. Manju Pradhan, MA, EdM, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Manju Pradhan
Psychologist, MA, EdM, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10065  (Online Only)
I use evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT, ACT, ERT, Compassion Focused Therapy and Somatic psychotherapy to integrate the mind and body.
Life's bright spots waxes and wanes, especially if you who have felt invalidated throughout your life and may come from historically marginalized backgrounds. Perhaps your suffering has led to a piqued interest in a commitment to healing and working through life's challenges. My mission is to honor your humanity and work with you if you felt unsafe to be you. and you have one or more marginalized identities. I work with BIPOC and LGBTQA+ people, acculturative stress survivors, people with underlying and chronic medical conditions, and people outside of mainstream faiths.
I use evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT, ACT, ERT, Compassion Focused Therapy and Somatic psychotherapy to integrate the mind and body.
Life's bright spots waxes and wanes, especially if you who have felt invalidated throughout your life and may come from historically marginalized backgrounds. Perhaps your suffering has led to a piqued interest in a commitment to healing and working through life's challenges. My mission is to honor your humanity and work with you if you felt unsafe to be you. and you have one or more marginalized identities. I work with BIPOC and LGBTQA+ people, acculturative stress survivors, people with underlying and chronic medical conditions, and people outside of mainstream faiths.
(646) 374-2379 View (646) 374-2379
Photo of Carrie Hunter, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carrie Hunter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, navigating a major life transition, or struggling with anxiety, depression, or self-esteem challenges? You might be dealing with trauma, family conflict, or relationship issues that are weighing you down. Whatever you're facing, you deserve a supportive, non-judgmental space to explore these challenges and find clarity. You want to feel understood, emotionally balanced, and confident in who you are. I help people like you process trauma, manage anxiety, and build self-compassion. I enjoy working with young adults, especially within the BIPOC community, through life's transitional phases.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, navigating a major life transition, or struggling with anxiety, depression, or self-esteem challenges? You might be dealing with trauma, family conflict, or relationship issues that are weighing you down. Whatever you're facing, you deserve a supportive, non-judgmental space to explore these challenges and find clarity. You want to feel understood, emotionally balanced, and confident in who you are. I help people like you process trauma, manage anxiety, and build self-compassion. I enjoy working with young adults, especially within the BIPOC community, through life's transitional phases.
(929) 412-1614 View (929) 412-1614
Photo of Yaakov Abramovitz, PsyD
Yaakov Abramovitz
PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10025
If you’re looking for help, there is a good chance that you've felt overwhelmed by your thoughts and feelings, or felt lost in your relationships or life itself. I collaborate with each individual and couple, helping them feel understood and seen, rather than jumping to any quick-fix solutions. Using principles and skills drawn from both skills based and compassion focused approaches, I strive to help clients learn more about their underlying values, sense of self, and patterns that have played out in their lives. Through this process, we work collaboratively to develop the skills and insight to move towards fulfillment and purpose.
If you’re looking for help, there is a good chance that you've felt overwhelmed by your thoughts and feelings, or felt lost in your relationships or life itself. I collaborate with each individual and couple, helping them feel understood and seen, rather than jumping to any quick-fix solutions. Using principles and skills drawn from both skills based and compassion focused approaches, I strive to help clients learn more about their underlying values, sense of self, and patterns that have played out in their lives. Through this process, we work collaboratively to develop the skills and insight to move towards fulfillment and purpose.
(646) 585-7231 View (646) 585-7231
Photo of Matthew Word, LMSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Word
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CHT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I specialize in processing trauma and reducing anxiety and depression through my work as a Depth Hypnosis Practitioner with EMDR and Compassion Focused Therapy.
Helping people overcome life's difficulties while turning adversity into strength, emotional freedom, and joy is my professional mission. I use my diverse training to meet clients where they are, whether they are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, trauma, or emotional regulation. I aim to help clients find joy and stability.
I specialize in processing trauma and reducing anxiety and depression through my work as a Depth Hypnosis Practitioner with EMDR and Compassion Focused Therapy.
Helping people overcome life's difficulties while turning adversity into strength, emotional freedom, and joy is my professional mission. I use my diverse training to meet clients where they are, whether they are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, trauma, or emotional regulation. I aim to help clients find joy and stability.
(347) 830-7358 View (347) 830-7358
Photo of Jennifer Kupferman, LMSW, MA, JD
Jennifer Kupferman
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, MA, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10065  (Online Only)
Do stressful situations, intrusive thoughts, or painful emotions hold you back from the life you want? As a therapist, I take a holistic approach to healing and wellness, one that integrates both somatic therapy and more traditional talk therapy. I believe that we all have the power within us to to find peace and to flourish as our authentic selves; and we all deserve support throughout that journey. As a former lawyer, I also appreciate the challenges that can come along with pursuing professional success alongside a rich and meaningful personal life, and I enjoy helping clients find balance between the two.
Do stressful situations, intrusive thoughts, or painful emotions hold you back from the life you want? As a therapist, I take a holistic approach to healing and wellness, one that integrates both somatic therapy and more traditional talk therapy. I believe that we all have the power within us to to find peace and to flourish as our authentic selves; and we all deserve support throughout that journey. As a former lawyer, I also appreciate the challenges that can come along with pursuing professional success alongside a rich and meaningful personal life, and I enjoy helping clients find balance between the two.
(929) 202-4159 View (929) 202-4159
Photo of Sara Loughlin, LMHC
Sara Loughlin
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10024  (Online Only)
The path to a life of peace, joy, and harmony lies ahead, and it's ok to need a little help in getting there. The foundation of my practice is based on two core principles: the importance of building a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship, and the belief that life's challenges provide an invaluable opportunity for personal growth. It takes courage to reach out for support and guidance, particularly if you’re going through a tough time; feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, having issues in your relationships, or if you're feeling ready to work through past traumas. Counseling can be transformative for these issues.
The path to a life of peace, joy, and harmony lies ahead, and it's ok to need a little help in getting there. The foundation of my practice is based on two core principles: the importance of building a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship, and the belief that life's challenges provide an invaluable opportunity for personal growth. It takes courage to reach out for support and guidance, particularly if you’re going through a tough time; feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, having issues in your relationships, or if you're feeling ready to work through past traumas. Counseling can be transformative for these issues.
(646) 760-5335 View (646) 760-5335
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Compassion Focused Therapists

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.