CFT is specifically designed for people who struggle with high levels of shame, self-criticism, and difficulty being kind to themselves. It combines insights from evolutionary psychology, attachment theory, and neuroscience to help you develop a more compassionate relationship with yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Understanding Self-Criticism<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Many of us have harsh inner critics that constantly judge and criticise us. While this might seem motivating, research shows that self-criticism often maintains problems like depression, anxiety, and low self-worth. CFT helps you develop a kinder, more supportive inner voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Three Emotional Systems<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
CFT is based on understanding three key emotional systems:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
Threat system (protection and safety-focused)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Drive system (resource-seeking and achievement-focused)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Soothing system (affiliation, care, and compassion-focused)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Many people with mental health difficulties have overactive threat and drive systems but an underdeveloped soothing system. CFT helps balance these systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What CFT Involves<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\n
Understanding your emotional systems and patterns<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Developing mindful awareness of self-criticism<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Learning compassionate imagery and breathing exercises<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Building self-soothing and emotional regulation skills<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Developing a compassionate inner voice<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Addressing shame and self-blame<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Building connections with others<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
What CFT Can Help With<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
CFT is particularly helpful for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
High levels of shame and self-criticism<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Depression with self-blame<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Anxiety and perfectionism<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Trauma and complex PTSD<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Eating disorders<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Psychosis and bipolar disorder<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Chronic pain and illness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Anger and emotional regulation difficulties<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
CFT teaches genuine compassion, which involves strength, courage, and wisdom\u2014not self-pity or self-indulgence. Compassion motivates you to take action to relieve suffering and create positive change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What to Expect<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
CFT sessions may include breathing exercises, imagery work, and compassionate letter writing. You’ll gradually develop skills for treating yourself with the same kindness you’d show a good friend facing similar difficulties.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
CFT is specifically designed for people who struggle with high levels of shame, self-criticism, and difficulty being kind to themselves. It combines insights from evolutionary psychology, attachment theory, and neuroscience…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":28265,"menu_order":0,"template":"","class_list":["post-28130","therapy_approach","type-therapy_approach","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\n
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