Masterclass: Introduction to Compassion Focused Therapy

Life can be very difficult for us and our clients. Compassion and the development of self-compassion can provide the support we all need to manage life’s challenges. Following the work of Professor Paul Gilbert a leading expert in the field of Depression, “The Compassionate Mind” and “Mindful Self-Compassion” co-authored with Choden. This experiential workshop will enable to delegates to understand more about Compassion Focused Therapy and how it can help reduce levels of shame and self-criticism which can maintain poor mental wellbeing. Using Compassionate Mind Training exercises, delegates will have the opportunity to engage in self-practice and self-reflection and so learn more about this powerful therapy which is developing a strong evidence base as a transdiagnostic approach.

Led by Maria Law, this experiential workshop focusing on learning more about Compassion Focused Therapy and how we might use the approach to help support ourselves and our clients more effectively. Starting with an understanding of what Compassion is and why we need it, We move into learning more about our tricky brains and considering how Compassion Focused Therapy can enable us to develop ways through compassionate mind training to help regulate our emotions more effectively. Recognising the impact of shame and self-criticism on our mental well being and that of our clients, through experiential exercises we will have an opportunity to engage in  mindful self-compassion practices and consider how we might use these in our clinical practice to help improve mental health.

After attending this course delegates will be able to…

• Understand more about Compassion and how it can help support mental well-being.
• Develop experience of the three circles approach to emotional regulation used in CFT.
• Practice some key aspects of Compassionate Mind Training

This course is for health professionals who are new to CFT or may want to revisit an introductory workshop and is eligible for 3 CPD points.