Who is Group Therapy for?

Compassion focused group therapy (CFT) is designed to support those who struggle with self-criticism and/or shame, and who feel ready to begin building a more compassionate, accepting relationship with themselves & others. When we’re caught in self-critical thinking, we might find ourselves saying things like “I’m useless,” “I’m unworthy,” “I’m stupid,” or “I’m unlovable.” These thoughts can lead to feeling stuck, undeserving of change, or even like we dislike who we are. For some, these feelings have been around for a long time.

To get the most out of the group, it's important to commit to attending weekly sessions and to actively engage in practices both during and between sessions.

Why groups?

It’s completely natural to feel unsure or anxious about joining a therapy group, especially if this is your first experience with therapy. Many people share these same concerns, but we hear time and time again from past group members how surprisingly positive and supportive the experience has turned out to be.

Research shows that group CBT is one of the most effective approaches for managing worry and anxiety. But beyond the clinical results, group therapy is deeply human and healing:

  • You’ll be alongside others who truly get it—people working through similar struggles, which can make you feel less alone and more understood

  • Practicing together in a supportive environment can help build motivation and a real sense of connection

  • Hearing others’ stories often helps reduce shame and self-judgment—it’s powerful to know you're not the only one feeling this way

  • There’s no pressure to share anything personal unless and until you feel ready. Many people start quietly and open up gradually, in their own time

  • Supporting others and being supported in return can be unexpectedly empowering and confidence-building

You don’t have to face worry or anxiety alone. This group is here to walk with you—at your pace, and with compassion.

What is Compassion Focused Group Therapy?

It is an evidence-based therapy intervention developed by Prof. Paul Gilbert through the Compassionate Mind Foundation. They define it as "a sensitivity to suffering in self and others with a commitment to try to alleviate and prevent it."

In recent years, research has revealed how humans’ capacities for compassion evolved and how compassion works in our bodies and our brains. Compassion is essentially the desire for ourselves and others to be free from suffering, and it is characterised by kindness as well as helpful action. When cultivated, compassion is a source of strength, resilience, wisdom, balanced emotions, and grounded thinking.

  • This group is a safe, supportive space where you’ll be met with understanding—not judgment—and where you're free to move at your own pace.

    Our Compassion Group is a 12 week programme, with weekly 2 hour sessions. It is a small group (no more than 10 participants) and is facilitated by myself, and another licenced Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist.

    It's completely normal to find these ideas unfamiliar or even uncomfortable at first. Many people feel unsure or awkward when talking about self-compassion, especially in a group setting. If that sounds like you, you’re not alone. Interestingly, research shows that the people who find self-compassion the most challenging at first are often the ones who benefit from it the most—with time, support, and practice. Confidentiality is respected at all times, and we work together to create a kind, respectful, and non-judgmental environment for everyone.

  • We’ll explore how the brain can contribute to negative thought patterns and emotional loops, and why these cycles can be hard to break.

    • You’ll learn about emotions—how they work, how to better understand them, and how to regulate them in a healthy way.

    • We’ll look at how past experiences can shape the way we relate to ourselves and others, and why compassion can sometimes feel difficult

    • The group will introduce a range of practical, compassion-based exercises designed to support more helpful ways of thinking, behaving, and relating.

    • We’ll develop skills to stay present and grounded, even during challenging moments.

    • You’ll be introduced to “thought defusion” strategies, which help create space from overwhelming or intrusive thoughts.

    • Together, we’ll practice these tools during sessions, with encouragement to continue exploring them between sessions. Each week, we’ll reflect on what’s coming up and what you’re learning.

    • Over time, the programme aims to reduce shame and self-criticism, while building emotional resilience and a more compassionate, skillful response to life’s challenges.

  • £45/ session, all sessions conducted online

    Still unsure of have any questions?

    Book your free consultation now