What is CFT?
Ever feel that you have a nagging critic on your shoulder telling you that you’re not good enough? Constantly using the ‘stick’ approach to try and push yourself forward? There is another way. We now know that personal growth is much more likely when coming from a place of safety and acceptance. Compassion Focused Therapy teaches you a way of doing this and I have seen great results with many clients using this approach.
On the brink of making an unhealthy decision? In need of some emotional propping up when you’re about to do something scary? Feel a wave of shame about the past? Imagine in that moment having the voice of someone who truly has your best interests at heart. CFT was founded by Professor Paul Gilbert, a British professor of psychology. He theorised that the missing element in some therapies was harnessing the power of our inner soothing systems. There is now great science that demonstrates the power of tapping into a compassionate inner voice rather than our self-critic.
What does it involve?
In CFT we use the ‘Three Systems’ approach to learn more about how we regulate our emotions. Take a look at the video on the right. Which system(s) resonate most with you?
Tasks in CFT may include:
- Understanding your past from a new, compassionate perspective
- Learning how to harness biology – tap into your natural soothing system
- Developing a mindfulness practice
- Building a more compassionate voice which is warm and kind but also helps push through those feelings of anxiety or doubt
- Bringing these skills to daily life to achieve your goals
Claire’s Story
Claire felt a lot of shame about her early experiences. This left her feeling anxious and low. She did everything she could to avoid any potential judgement.
Using a CFT approach Claire saw her behaviours in a new light. She really benefitted from tapping into her soothing system by using a new way of breathing called ‘Soothing Rhythm Breathing’. She identified an inner critical voice and focused on how she could develop other healthier voices.
Claire was able to bring her new compassionate voice to tackle situations that she did not think would be possible such as making a presentation at work. She left therapy with a new sense of freedom and self-acceptance.