Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) | GPS Therapy®

Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) is a warm, evidence-based approach I offer for clients who struggle with harsh self-criticism, shame or feelings of not being “good enough.” It helps people understand how these patterns develop and learn to relate to themselves with greater kindness, balance and emotional safety.

What Compassion-Focused Therapy Helps With
CFT can be particularly effective if you often feel anxious, ashamed, guilty or angry with yourself, or if you find it hard to relax or accept care from others. It supports those recovering from trauma, perfectionism, burnout or long-standing feelings of inadequacy.

How I Work with Compassion-Focused Therapy
I draw on CFT to help you recognise the different “systems” that shape emotional life — threat, drive and soothing — and to strengthen the capacity for warmth and self-compassion. When appropriate, I integrate CFT with Schema Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR, creating an approach that addresses both emotional depth and day-to-day coping.

What to Expect
Sessions are gentle and collaborative, focusing on building emotional safety rather than pressure to change. We may use imagery, mindfulness or reflective exercises to soften self-criticism and strengthen the compassionate voice within. Over time, many clients experience reduced shame, calmer emotions and a greater sense of inner balance.

Next Steps
To learn more about how I work therapeutically, or to explore whether Compassion-Focused Therapy may be right for you, please visit the main Therapy page.

Therapy by Dr Kerri Garbutt
Chartered & HCPC-Registered Private Psychologist | 20+ years clinical experience | Advanced training in Schema Therapy, IFS & EMDR