What is Compassion Focused Therapy?

Compassion Focused Therapy is an integrative psychotherapeutic model developed by Prof Paul Gilbert OBE. It draws on a range of different psychotherapeutic modalities and approaches, along with neuroscience, attachment theory and Buddhist meditative practices to help clients develop and orientate toward a more compassionate way of being with themselves and in the world.

Core Idea
‍CFT helps people develop compassion for themselves and others in order to regulate emotion, reduce psychological suffering, andimprove mental well-being.

‍🧠 Theoretical FoundationsCFT is integrative, drawing from: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Evolutionary psychology Attachment theory Neuroscience Buddhist psychology and     mindfulnessPaul Gilbert’s key insight was that many people, especiallythose with trauma or harsh inner critics, do not benefit fully fromtraditional CBT because they struggle to feel safe or deserving. CFTaims to create a foundation of emotional safety through compassion.🔄 Three EmotionRegulation Systems in CFTCFT organizes human emotions into three systems: Threat system – activates fear,     anger, anxiety (e.g., in response to danger) Drive system – motivates seeking     resources, achievement, pleasure Soothing system – associated with     feeling safe, connected, calmPeople with high shame or trauma often have overactivethreat systems and underdeveloped soothing systems. CFT works tostrengthen the soothing system through compassionate practices.🧘‍♀️ Key Techniques in CFT Compassionate imagery – visualizing a     nurturing, supportive presence Developing the     "compassionate self" – an internal part that embodies strength, warmth,     wisdom Soothing rhythm     breathing     – calming the nervous system Addressing fears of     compassion     – many people feel undeserving or anxious about receiving care Therapist modeling     compassion     – the therapist serves as a "secure base" similar to a healthy     attachment figure🧩 Who Is CFT For?CFT is particularly helpful for individuals with: High self-criticism Chronic shame or guilt Early attachment trauma Depression or anxiety Eating disorders or     personality disorders Resistance to     self-compassion or support from others📈 Evidence BaseCFT has growing empirical support. Studies show it helps: Increase self-compassion Reduce shame, anxiety,     and depression Improve emotional     resilience, especially in those with insecure attachment📝 In Summary:Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) is a therapeuticapproach that helps individuals develop inner compassion to calm the mind,reduce shame, and heal emotional wounds—especially when these stem from traumaor a lack of secure attachment early in life