Compassion-Focused Training
In Compassion Focused Therapy compassion is understood as having two core aspects:
- Sensitivity to suffering, in ourselves and others
- The motivation and commitment to alleviate or prevent suffering
When directed towards ourselves, this becomes self-compassion.
Contrary to common myths, compassion is not a sign of weakness—it’s a powerful skill that requires courage, presence, and a nervous system that’s regulated enough to engage with suffering wisely and safely.
What Is Compassionate Mind Training?
Compassionate Mind Training (CMT) is a core element of Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), developed by Professor Paul Gilbert. While CFT is used in psychological therapy, CMT can be used outside of this context, making its benefits accessible in a broader range of settings. It can be used in many ways including as part of management of chronic illnesses such as persistent pain, fibromyalgia, and ME/CFS. When used in workplace settings it can be applied to leadership, team dynamics, and organisational culture to support sustainable, trauma-informed ways of working.
CMT is grounded in evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, and contemporary compassion research. It uses a variety of practices, along with psychoeducation, aimed at engaging and growing our compassionate mind and compassionate way of being, including:
- Psychoeducation
- Guided compassionate Imagery
- Self-soothing and grounding techniques
- Elements of mindfulness
- Working with the inner critic
- Cultivation of the compassionate self
CMT nurtures resilience, wellbeing and a more compassionate way of being – embodying compassion.
My Approach
I integrate CMT and other compassion focused practices into all of my work with individuals and groups. I draw from extensive training, ongoing self-study, and embodied experience. My approach is:
- Compassionate
- Trauma-informed
- Nervous system aware
- Mindful
- Somatic & embodied
- Integrative
How I Offer Compassion-Focused Practices
1:1 Integrative Somatic Therapy
Tailored practices to support compassion, nervous system regulation, and embodied wellbeing.
You can explore more here:
Group Workshops
For example, my 8-week Embodied Compassion series, part of the Listening to Our Inner Wisdom program, combines psycoeducation, guided practices, reflection, and community connection and support.
You can explore more here:
Compassionate Trauma-Informed Workplaces
Tailored support for workplaces to cultivate compassionate trauma-informed ways of working and being. Supporting sustainability, effectiveness, wellbeing, resilience, and improved relationships for everyone.
You can explore more here:
Potential Benefits
Compassion-focused practices can be supportive in a number of ways, including:
- Increased compassion and kindness towards yourself and others
- Reduced self-criticism, shame, anxiety, and emotional reactivity
- Decreased stress
- Enhanced resilience and psychological flexibility
- Support in managing chronic health conditions such as persistent pain, fibromyalgia, ME/CFS, and Long Covid
- Improved wellbeing and quality of life
Learn More: A Compassion-Focused Approach to Stress Management
For a deeper look at how Compassion Focused Therapy can support stress awareness and management, you can read my blog post on the Balanced Minds website:
Who Is It For?
This work is for anyone wishing to:
- Cultivate a more compassionate relationship with themselves and others
- Understand and soothe the inner critic
- Build resilience and inner safety
- Navigate trauma or chronic health condition recovery with care
- Develop practical tools to support wellbeing and personal growth
Next Steps
If you’re curious about how compassion-focused practices could support your wellbeing, you’re welcome to get in touch to book a free 15 minute discovery call – a space to explore whether this work feels like the right fit for you, there is no obligation to book an appointment after this call. Contact Ann:
- Email: info@unityphysio.co.uk
- Call 07871240188
- Or use the Get in Touch Button
Location
You can arrange a virtual appointment for anywhere in the UK or an in person appointment in North Hykeham, Lincoln.
Get in touch
If you would like to find out how Ann can help manage and change fatigue, do what you love, live well and thrive again get in touch to book your appointment, or a free 15 minute call to help you decide if working with Ann is right for you.