What is compassion focused therapy, and how does it differ from other therapeutic approaches in promoting self-compassion and emotional well-being?
Hi Hannah, welcome to the forum! That’s a thoughtful question. Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) is a therapeutic approach that emphasizes developing compassion for ourselves as a way to heal emotional wounds and foster well-being. It’s especially helpful for people who struggle with self-criticism, shame, or feelings of unworthiness.
What makes CFT unique is its focus on understanding how our minds can generate harsh inner critic voices and learning to respond to those with kindness—changing the way we relate to ourselves. It draws on techniques from mindfulness, compassion training, and cognitive-behavioral principles.
Compared to other therapies like traditional CBT or mindfulness alone, CFT places a stronger emphasis on building a compassionate inner voice and addressing emotional regulation through warmth and kindness. It can complement other approaches and deepen self-understanding.
If you’re curious about exploring self-compassion, consider seeking a therapist trained in CFT—it’s a gentle, nurturing approach that many find transformative.