Compassion Focused Therapists in San Antonio, TX

Photo of Jessica Simons, PhD, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Simons
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
I am passionate about helping people overcome feelings of anxiety, shame, depression, or perfectionism related to feelings of inadequacy or worthlessness. I empower people to shed feelings of guilt or over-responsibility for others. I help people develop greater compassion within themselves, as well in marriage, parenting, and other relationships. Yes, it takes work to make changes, but I provide skills and a safe place to make and sustain those changes. Studies show when we live with more compassion, we have less anxiety, depression, and conflict. I love helping people on this journey to live with peace.
I am passionate about helping people overcome feelings of anxiety, shame, depression, or perfectionism related to feelings of inadequacy or worthlessness. I empower people to shed feelings of guilt or over-responsibility for others. I help people develop greater compassion within themselves, as well in marriage, parenting, and other relationships. Yes, it takes work to make changes, but I provide skills and a safe place to make and sustain those changes. Studies show when we live with more compassion, we have less anxiety, depression, and conflict. I love helping people on this journey to live with peace.
(435) 266-4396 View (435) 266-4396
Photo of Jake Ledesma, LMSW
Jake Ledesma
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78250
My ideal client seeks to overcome life's challenges. They experience anxiety, depression, or overwhelm due to transitions, trauma, or relationship issues. Whether navigating career paths, strengthening relationships, or recovering from substance abuse, they are open to growth. This motivated individual values collaboration, authenticity, and holistic well-being. Together, we'll build resilience and create a more fulfilling life.
My ideal client seeks to overcome life's challenges. They experience anxiety, depression, or overwhelm due to transitions, trauma, or relationship issues. Whether navigating career paths, strengthening relationships, or recovering from substance abuse, they are open to growth. This motivated individual values collaboration, authenticity, and holistic well-being. Together, we'll build resilience and create a more fulfilling life.
(210) 880-0315 View (210) 880-0315
Photo of Charlene Mesa, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlene Mesa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78253  (Online Only)
I truly believe that everyone can benefit from therapy at some point in their lives. Seeking out treatment is a big step and it's important to find the right Therapist to help you. I offer treatment based on your needs and help create a positive mindset for those motivated for change.
I truly believe that everyone can benefit from therapy at some point in their lives. Seeking out treatment is a big step and it's important to find the right Therapist to help you. I offer treatment based on your needs and help create a positive mindset for those motivated for change.
(210) 741-9019 View (210) 741-9019
Photo of Candice Exon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Candice Exon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78247  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Candice and a licensed therapist with several years of experience in trauma, ADHD, anxiety and mindfulness. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and challenges openly. My approach is collaborative and tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs. I look forward to working together with you on your journey towards healing and personal growth.
Hi! I'm Candice and a licensed therapist with several years of experience in trauma, ADHD, anxiety and mindfulness. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and challenges openly. My approach is collaborative and tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs. I look forward to working together with you on your journey towards healing and personal growth.
(830) 376-6167 View (830) 376-6167
Photo of Alberto Bustamante, MS,  NCC, RPT, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alberto Bustamante
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, RPT, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78212  (Online Only)
Thanks so much for reaching out, I know this is not easy. Taking care of yourself and paying attention to your mental health can be overwhelming and scary so I want to validate you for your courage in taking this very important first step. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I have nearly 10 years professional experience in the mental health field and a few more decades of experience in the school of life. Throughout my career I have worked with children, adults, family's, and couples with a focus on healing.
Thanks so much for reaching out, I know this is not easy. Taking care of yourself and paying attention to your mental health can be overwhelming and scary so I want to validate you for your courage in taking this very important first step. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I have nearly 10 years professional experience in the mental health field and a few more decades of experience in the school of life. Throughout my career I have worked with children, adults, family's, and couples with a focus on healing.
(830) 410-2295 View (830) 410-2295
Photo of Amanda Rivas, MA, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Rivas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78268  (Online Only)
Are you feeling on edge or stressed out by life? Do you feel numb or unable to enjoy life anymore? Are you struggling in your relationships? Do you just want a safe person to talk to without judgment? Feeling stressed, down or unstable can be so difficult disconnecting us from those closest to us & even ourselves. If you are struggling, Calm & Cozy Counseling with me may help you get a good grip on life, manage stress and just feel better. I hope to support your needs by working from a unique approach based on your personality and responsiveness.
Are you feeling on edge or stressed out by life? Do you feel numb or unable to enjoy life anymore? Are you struggling in your relationships? Do you just want a safe person to talk to without judgment? Feeling stressed, down or unstable can be so difficult disconnecting us from those closest to us & even ourselves. If you are struggling, Calm & Cozy Counseling with me may help you get a good grip on life, manage stress and just feel better. I hope to support your needs by working from a unique approach based on your personality and responsiveness.
(210) 294-9087 View (210) 294-9087
Photo of Dr. Shay Ashton Harris, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Shay Ashton Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78228  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Asking for help can feel intimidating and vulnerable, but I want you to know that you have your own story to share, and your story is worth being told and heard! I am a licensed professional counselor free of judgment, full of compassion, and dedicated to helping you discover how to break through mental barriers limiting results and guide your true potential when life throws you a curve ball. Let nothing deter you from your efforts and stop you from striving tirelessly to achieve your full potential. I am passionate about learning and growing when struggling with mental barriers and am interested in contributing to developing goals
Asking for help can feel intimidating and vulnerable, but I want you to know that you have your own story to share, and your story is worth being told and heard! I am a licensed professional counselor free of judgment, full of compassion, and dedicated to helping you discover how to break through mental barriers limiting results and guide your true potential when life throws you a curve ball. Let nothing deter you from your efforts and stop you from striving tirelessly to achieve your full potential. I am passionate about learning and growing when struggling with mental barriers and am interested in contributing to developing goals
(210) 864-9939 View (210) 864-9939
Photo of Paige Newberry Bartholomew, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paige Newberry Bartholomew
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232  (Online Only)
More Shifting - Less Processing. Instead of talking your feelings to death, our aim is to give you a transformative experience. Using everything that psychology knows about the parasympathetic nervous system, we can quickly SHIFT you to a new story - accessing the part of the brain that perceives life in a fresh way. This Isn't Your Average Talk Therapy - of course we'll talk about your stories, your history, your painful issues. But something more needs to take place in order to dig down to those deep-seated memories and pockets of pain that keep you stuck or sick. We have to go beyond the place most psychology can take you.
More Shifting - Less Processing. Instead of talking your feelings to death, our aim is to give you a transformative experience. Using everything that psychology knows about the parasympathetic nervous system, we can quickly SHIFT you to a new story - accessing the part of the brain that perceives life in a fresh way. This Isn't Your Average Talk Therapy - of course we'll talk about your stories, your history, your painful issues. But something more needs to take place in order to dig down to those deep-seated memories and pockets of pain that keep you stuck or sick. We have to go beyond the place most psychology can take you.
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Photo of Nancy Velez, LPC
Nancy Velez
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
My clients are tired of being a "survivor". They have begun to ask, "When they can just exist and stop fighting?". This question is just the beginning of our work together.
My clients are tired of being a "survivor". They have begun to ask, "When they can just exist and stop fighting?". This question is just the beginning of our work together.
(210) 592-4230 View (210) 592-4230
Photo of Lewis Hill - Counseling to Empowerment, PLLC, MA, LPC-S, LCMHC, PSS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling to Empowerment, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCMHC, PSS, NCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78257
Counseling to Empowerment, PLLC is an outpatient mental and behavioral health counseling agency. We are staffed with empathetic and experienced mental health clinicians who strive to guide and direct individuals to self-desired success and self-empowerment. Se habla Español
Counseling to Empowerment, PLLC is an outpatient mental and behavioral health counseling agency. We are staffed with empathetic and experienced mental health clinicians who strive to guide and direct individuals to self-desired success and self-empowerment. Se habla Español
(210) 971-5771 View (210) 971-5771
Photo of Jacob O Rincon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacob O Rincon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78231
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Taking charge of your mental health can be a difficult process, one that everyone has to face. My therapy techniques allow me to get to the root of the problem you come to see me with while also exploring how the problem came to be. We will collaboratively work together to come up with ideas that are best suited for you and your lifestyle. No challenge is too small or large, I happily work with people one on one, see families, and help couple's strengthen their relationship. Whatever the problem may be, my focus is to help you get through it!
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Taking charge of your mental health can be a difficult process, one that everyone has to face. My therapy techniques allow me to get to the root of the problem you come to see me with while also exploring how the problem came to be. We will collaboratively work together to come up with ideas that are best suited for you and your lifestyle. No challenge is too small or large, I happily work with people one on one, see families, and help couple's strengthen their relationship. Whatever the problem may be, my focus is to help you get through it!
(210) 880-0220 View (210) 880-0220
Photo of Ariel Falkon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ariel Falkon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78249  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Ariel! Thanks for considering me to walk this path of growth, healing, and self-discovery with you. I have worked in counseling and mental health for a decade and have experience working with clients of all ages and varied concerns. The majority of my experience is in university counseling, where I have fostered a love of meeting clients in a transitional stage of life, working to carve out their identity and future.
Hi, I'm Ariel! Thanks for considering me to walk this path of growth, healing, and self-discovery with you. I have worked in counseling and mental health for a decade and have experience working with clients of all ages and varied concerns. The majority of my experience is in university counseling, where I have fostered a love of meeting clients in a transitional stage of life, working to carve out their identity and future.
(830) 510-1842 View (830) 510-1842
Photo of Rosie Cantu, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosie Cantu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78213
I believe that we are all here on borrowed time and that tomorrow is not promised. I would like to sit with you and have a conversation about your struggles, and needs. Let's talk about your happiness and what steps need to be taken to work towards the BEST version of yourself. In a session with me expect for us to explore your thinking patterns because how you think and what you do impacts your everyday life. Expect exploration of goals, a comfortable, and safe place for sharing.
I believe that we are all here on borrowed time and that tomorrow is not promised. I would like to sit with you and have a conversation about your struggles, and needs. Let's talk about your happiness and what steps need to be taken to work towards the BEST version of yourself. In a session with me expect for us to explore your thinking patterns because how you think and what you do impacts your everyday life. Expect exploration of goals, a comfortable, and safe place for sharing.
(210) 899-6298 View (210) 899-6298
Photo of Rebecca A. Hagerling, CMDP, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca A. Hagerling
Licensed Professional Counselor, CMDP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78220  (Online Only)
My great passion as a Health & Wellness Professional is to help you build a healthier relationship with food & your body, cultivate emotional agility to freely express yourself, & be able to communicate your needs/wants to others more effectively. While I’d love to help you improve your mental health through physical activity & balanced nutrition, I also understand that everyone’s starting point in therapy can look very different. It would be my pleasure in meeting you where you are in your journey to help build your own tool box of skills so that you can lead the life you deserve to live.
My great passion as a Health & Wellness Professional is to help you build a healthier relationship with food & your body, cultivate emotional agility to freely express yourself, & be able to communicate your needs/wants to others more effectively. While I’d love to help you improve your mental health through physical activity & balanced nutrition, I also understand that everyone’s starting point in therapy can look very different. It would be my pleasure in meeting you where you are in your journey to help build your own tool box of skills so that you can lead the life you deserve to live.
(210) 851-9728 View (210) 851-9728
Photo of Tracey Ungar, PhD, Psychologist
Tracey Ungar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78209  (Online Only)
I am a psychologist with thirty-years of experience as a therapist, educator, and group facilitator. I work via tele-health. I am licensed in Texas and New York. I received my degrees from New York University and Long Island University and then moved to Texas years ago to work with active duty servicemembers. Currently, I work in private practice and I specialize in ADHD coaching, Depression, PTSD, Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, Psychedelic Plant Medicine Integration, Interior Design Consultation, and Racial/Cultural Identity.
I am a psychologist with thirty-years of experience as a therapist, educator, and group facilitator. I work via tele-health. I am licensed in Texas and New York. I received my degrees from New York University and Long Island University and then moved to Texas years ago to work with active duty servicemembers. Currently, I work in private practice and I specialize in ADHD coaching, Depression, PTSD, Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, Psychedelic Plant Medicine Integration, Interior Design Consultation, and Racial/Cultural Identity.
(210) 441-9870 View (210) 441-9870
Photo of Josephine Langham, LPC-A, Licensed Professional Counselor
Josephine Langham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232  (Online Only)
Sharing your story and asking for help can feel scary, and that's okay! Maybe feelings of guilt or shame made self-forgiveness challenging, or has a difficulty staying motivated through a life transition left you feeling out of control? Perhaps unspoken expectations about how you "should" look or feel have left you exhausted and/or overwhelmed. Or feelings of fear and anxiety have held you back causing you to feel stuck? If so, I am here to listen and support you.
Sharing your story and asking for help can feel scary, and that's okay! Maybe feelings of guilt or shame made self-forgiveness challenging, or has a difficulty staying motivated through a life transition left you feeling out of control? Perhaps unspoken expectations about how you "should" look or feel have left you exhausted and/or overwhelmed. Or feelings of fear and anxiety have held you back causing you to feel stuck? If so, I am here to listen and support you.
(512) 601-8982 View (512) 601-8982
Photo of Janelle Carson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janelle Carson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
I strongly believe in the power of transformation and ability to heal. As a therapist, my goal is to develop meaningful relationships with my clients in an effort to create an emotionally safe space. I am passionate about offering support to those who are looking to work on self improvement or having difficulty adjusting to life changes, experiencing a loss of any kind, infertility, divorce, chronic health/pain condition or caring for a loved one with a disability. Counseling can offer you a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your thoughts, feelings as well as empower you to learn more about yourself.
I strongly believe in the power of transformation and ability to heal. As a therapist, my goal is to develop meaningful relationships with my clients in an effort to create an emotionally safe space. I am passionate about offering support to those who are looking to work on self improvement or having difficulty adjusting to life changes, experiencing a loss of any kind, infertility, divorce, chronic health/pain condition or caring for a loved one with a disability. Counseling can offer you a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your thoughts, feelings as well as empower you to learn more about yourself.
(210) 625-7701 View (210) 625-7701
Photo of Angela Brown, LCSW-S, CSTIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CSTIP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230
Does it feel like no one is listening to you? Need to get something off your shoulders with trust that there will be no judgement? Feel like you are stagnant in life or cannot overcome a hardship? It takes tremendous courage to decide to escape your (un)comfort zone and find out how you can create a better quality of life. I use evidence-based, therapeutic techniques that guide you toward discovering your hidden strengths, conquering your demons, and enhancing your self-confidence. Our first goal will be for you to walk out of each session feeling self-empowered.
Does it feel like no one is listening to you? Need to get something off your shoulders with trust that there will be no judgement? Feel like you are stagnant in life or cannot overcome a hardship? It takes tremendous courage to decide to escape your (un)comfort zone and find out how you can create a better quality of life. I use evidence-based, therapeutic techniques that guide you toward discovering your hidden strengths, conquering your demons, and enhancing your self-confidence. Our first goal will be for you to walk out of each session feeling self-empowered.
(830) 730-6090 View (830) 730-6090
Photo of Justen Schroeder, MEd, LPC-A, NCC
Justen Schroeder
LPC-Associate, MEd, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232
Our lives can be filled with authentic joy and I believe counseling can help individuals accomplish that goal. My role as counselor is to create an authentic environment of trust, understanding, and consistent with the client's goals. I believe in a therapeutic process that promotes change for the betterment of the client, challenging and confronting irrational thoughts and beliefs, and encouraging lived experiences and cultural lenses to be an important part of counseling. As a former dual sport college athlete, I understand the unique success and challenges that come with being an athlete at any age and any level.
Our lives can be filled with authentic joy and I believe counseling can help individuals accomplish that goal. My role as counselor is to create an authentic environment of trust, understanding, and consistent with the client's goals. I believe in a therapeutic process that promotes change for the betterment of the client, challenging and confronting irrational thoughts and beliefs, and encouraging lived experiences and cultural lenses to be an important part of counseling. As a former dual sport college athlete, I understand the unique success and challenges that come with being an athlete at any age and any level.
(210) 972-0714 View (210) 972-0714
Photo of Gloria Coffey, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gloria Coffey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78205  (Online Only)
I have over 18 years of experience working as a counselor, mentor, and coach to clients of all ages and backgrounds. From traumatized child soldiers in Liberia, to disenchanted newlyweds in the United States, every one of my clients has changed me for the better and made me the counselor that I am today. I have counseled clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and family conflict. I am especially passionate about empowering clients to become the very best version of themselves. I love watching people shed the wounds and lies that they’ve been carrying for years and ste
I have over 18 years of experience working as a counselor, mentor, and coach to clients of all ages and backgrounds. From traumatized child soldiers in Liberia, to disenchanted newlyweds in the United States, every one of my clients has changed me for the better and made me the counselor that I am today. I have counseled clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and family conflict. I am especially passionate about empowering clients to become the very best version of themselves. I love watching people shed the wounds and lies that they’ve been carrying for years and ste
(210) 972-7677 View (210) 972-7677
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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.