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Compassion Focused Therapy at Broadway Lodge

Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) at Broadway Lodge

Professor Paul Gilbert, who developed Compassion Focused Therapy, defines compassion as “a sensitivity to the suffering of self and others (and its causes) with a deep commitment to try and relieve it and prevent it.”

Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) is a form of psychotherapy that helps individuals break free from unhelpful, and sometimes destructive, patterns of shame and self-criticism. It can be effective in helping to treat long-term emotional problems such as anxiety, anger, self-harm, self-esteem problems, mood disorders, personality disorders and eating disorders, as well as high levels of shame and feelings of worthlessness – all of which can commonly occur alongside addiction.

While we already offer a range of effective interventions and therapeutic approaches that support clients to address feelings of shame and low self-worth, the addition of CFT in their treatment can further strengthen this process, supporting deeper healing and lasting, positive change.

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How developing self-compassion can support recovery

Cultivating self-compassion helps us to:

  • Replace harsh self-criticism with kindness and self-acceptance
  • Foster feelings of safety and inner comfort
  • Regulate mood and balance emotions, improving overall sense of wellbeing
  • Feel happier and content
  • Develop emotional resilience
  • Re-build meaningful and healthy relationships in recovery
  • Experience increased self-esteem
  • Strengthen our ability to be present and supportive of others

How CFT is delivered at Broadway Lodge

At Broadway Lodge we run a rolling 12-week compassion focused therapy group that combines psychoeducation with practical exercises, interactive activities and CFT-led group therapy. The programme is designed for clients to build the core skills and attributes of compassion so that they are able to cultivate compassion for themselves. In addition to the group sessions, individual Compassion Focused Therapy is also available. These sessions provide personalised CFT support and a safe space to explore personal experiences using a different lens to develop tools that support specific needs.

 

Eligibility

Please note – Participation in CFT groups and/or individual sessions is based on a referral from a client’s focal counsellor during treatment. Access is also dependent on the length of stay to ensure therapeutic benefit.