What Is CFT?

Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) was developed by Professor Paul Gilbert specifically for people who struggle with high levels of shame and self-criticism. It draws on evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, and Buddhist philosophy to help you understand why your mind works the way it does — and how to develop a more compassionate relationship with yourself.

How It Works

CFT is based on the understanding that we have three emotional regulation systems: the threat system, the drive system, and the soothing system. Many people who struggle with self-criticism have an overactive threat system and an underdeveloped soothing system.

Through compassionate mind training, imagery exercises, and guided exploration, we work to strengthen your soothing system so you can respond to difficulties with warmth rather than harsh self-judgment.

What CFT Can Help With

• Chronic self-criticism and perfectionism
• Shame and guilt
• Low self-worth
• Anxiety driven by fear of failure or judgment
• Depression linked to feelings of inadequacy
• Trauma-related shame
• Compassion fatigue in caring professionals

What to Expect

CFT sessions involve psychoeducation about how your brain works, guided compassionate imagery, and reflective exercises. The approach is warm, non-judgmental, and deeply experiential. Many clients describe it as the therapy that finally helped them feel "good enough."