Paul Gilbert
Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)
“Compassion is one of the most important, courageous and healing motivations that nature ever came up with.”
Clinical Overview & Scientific Approach
Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) is a psychological approach developed by Paul Gilbert to help individuals who struggle with high levels of shame, self-criticism, and difficulties in experiencing self-kindness. The therapy centres on cultivating self-compassion and a nurturing relationship toward oneself, providing tools to manage emotional distress effectively.
CFT incorporates both psychoeducation and practical skill development. Clients learn about the three emotional regulation systems — the threat/protect system, the drive system, and the soothing system — understanding how these shape internal experiences like shame and anxiety. Therapists introduce the evolutionary perspective of the mind (often called the 'tricky brain'), emphasising that suffering is a common human experience.
Compassionate Mind Training & The Three Flows
A cornerstone of CFT is Compassionate Mind Training, which fosters six attributes of compassion: sensitivity, care for well-being, sympathy, distress tolerance, non-judgement, and empathy. Practical exercises — such as compassionate imagery, soothing rhythm breathing, and compassionate letter-writing — help clients activate the brain's soothing system, promoting feelings of safety and calm.
CFT uniquely emphasises developing compassion in three directions: towards others, from others, and towards the self. This comprehensive approach helps balance self-criticism with self-support, encourages client resilience, and addresses fears or resistances to compassion.
Mindfulness practices and understanding the origins of difficult emotions — especially shame and guilt — are integral, facilitating emotional regulation and shifting inner dialogue from criticism to support.
Consultants Delivering This Service
Our accredited psychologists and psychotherapists experienced in this clinical area.
Jarah Koomson
Consultant Psychotherapist
Consultant psychotherapist focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, and compassion focused therapy (CFT).
Georgia Gibbs
Consultant Psychotherapist
Specialist in compassionate psychotherapy, self-worth, and adaptive behavioral modification.
Dr George Fieldman
Consultant Psychologist
Senior consultant psychologist specializing in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), evolutionary psychobiology, and executive consultation.
Bradley Clarke
Consultant Psychotherapist
Consultant psychotherapist focusing on cognitive restructuring, stress management, and emotional resilience.
Session Attendance Policy for Minors
We work with adults from 18 years of age, and with young people aged from 10 to 17. For children aged 10 to 15 years, a second responsible adult must be in attendance during sessions.
Begin Consultation with Clear Thinking Clinic
Contact our confidential reception to discuss availability, fees, or to arrange an initial session for compassion focused therapy (cft).