Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)
What is Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)?
​​​Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) is an evidence-based psychotherapy that helps individuals develop self-compassion and emotional resilience. CFT was designed for people who struggle with high self-criticism, shame, or feelings of inadequacy. Rather than focusing solely on symptom reduction, CFT teaches you to cultivate kindness, understanding, and acceptance toward yourself, while addressing patterns that contribute to emotional distress.
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A core principle of Compassion Focused Therapy is that our emotions are regulated by three interconnected systems: the threat system, the drive system, and the soothing system. Understanding these systems helps clients develop emotional balance and self-compassion.
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The Threat System
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This system responds to danger, criticism, or perceived threats. It triggers fear, anxiety, anger, or self-criticism to protect us. In some people, the threat system is overactive, leading to chronic stress, shame, or self-judgment.
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The Drive System
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The drive system motivates us to achieve goals, seek rewards, and pursue success. It encourages energy, ambition, and pleasure-seeking behaviours. While useful, an overactive drive system can lead to perfectionism, stress, or frustration when goals aren’t met.
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The Soothing System
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The soothing system is linked to feelings of safety, contentment, and compassion. It is activated by warmth, kindness, and supportive connections, both toward ourselves and others. Strengthening this system helps counterbalance the threat system and regulate difficult emotions.
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In CFT, therapy focuses on:
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Recognizing which system is active in the moment
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Developing skills to engage the soothing system when the threat system dominates
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Balancing motivation and achievement through the drive system
By learning to activate the soothing system, clients cultivate self-compassion, emotional resilience, and healthier responses to stress, shame, and self-criticism.
What Can CFT Help With?
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Compassion Focused Therapy is particularly helpful for individuals who experience:
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Trauma or grief
CFT combines elements of mindfulness, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and compassion-focused exercises to reduce distress and build emotional resilience
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What Might a Typical CFT Session Look Like?
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In a typical CFT session at Reclaim Psychotherapy, your therapist will help you:
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Understand how self-criticism and shame affect your emotions and behaviours
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Develop self-compassion exercises to soothe difficult emotions
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Practice mindfulness and grounding techniques
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Explore ways to respond to yourself and others with kindness
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Set goals for meaningful change aligned with your values
CFT sessions are collaborative and experiential, providing practical tools to reduce self-criticism, manage distress, and enhance emotional well-being.
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Why Choose Reclaim Psychotherapy for CFT?
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At Reclaim Psychotherapy, our therapists are trained in Compassion Focused Therapy and integrate it with other evidence-based approaches to meet your unique needs. We offer online therapy across Ontario, providing flexible options to support your mental health.
With CFT, you can:
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Reduce self-criticism and shame
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Develop self-compassion and resilience
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Improve emotional regulation
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Build healthier relationships with yourself and others
Our goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can cultivate kindness toward yourself while addressing emotional challenges.
Ready to take the first step? Get in touch today!
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Reach out by phone, text, or email using the details or form below. We're here to answer your questions and help you get started.
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