Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)

​Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) is a psychological approach developed by Dr. Paul Gilbert that focuses on helping individuals develop and nurture compassion for themselves and others. Rooted in evolutionary psychology, attachment theory, and neuroscience, CFT is particularly effective for individuals who struggle with high levels of shame, self-criticism, or trauma. It works by activating the brain’s soothing system—helping people feel safer, calmer, and more connected.

 

CFT teaches that we all have three emotional systems: the threat system (which protects us), the drive system (which motivates us), and the soothing system (which helps us feel safe and cared for). In many individuals, especially those with a history of trauma or self-criticism, the soothing system may be underdeveloped. CFT helps to balance these systems by cultivating self-compassion as a way to reduce inner conflict and build emotional resilience.

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Understanding Self-Compassion

 

Self-compassion is the practice of responding to ourselves with kindness, understanding, and patience—especially in moments of pain or failure. Rather than judging ourselves harshly or trying to “tough it out,” self-compassion encourages us to acknowledge our struggles as part of the shared human experience.

 

Key elements of self-compassion include:

 

• Self-kindness instead of self-judgment

• Common humanity instead of isolation

• Mindfulness instead of over-identification with negative thoughts

 

By learning to treat ourselves with the same care we’d offer a friend, we create the emotional safety necessary for growth and healing.

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Applying CFT to OCD and Eating Disorders

 

CFT offers a powerful framework for addressing the emotional roots of both Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Eating Disorders. People with OCD often experience intense shame and fear around their intrusive thoughts and compulsions, leading to a cycle of self-criticism and anxiety. Similarly, individuals struggling with eating disorders frequently contend with deep-seated feelings of inadequacy, body shame, and a harsh internal critic.

 

By fostering self-compassion, CFT helps individuals shift from punitive self-monitoring to a more understanding and supportive inner dialogue. In the treatment of OCD, CFT can reduce the fear and shame associated with intrusive thoughts, making space for more effective behavioral interventions. In eating disorder treatment, cultivating compassion helps to challenge the belief that worth is tied to appearance or control, and it opens the door to more balanced, nurturing behaviors around food and body image.

 

Through consistent practice, CFT empowers individuals to move away from cycles of shame and avoidance, and toward a more peaceful, connected, and self-accepting way of being.​

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You don’t have to face this alone. Self-compassion focused therapy can help you gently navigate the challenges of OCD or an eating disorder with kindness and care. Reach out today—we’re here to support your healing.