Bespoke Members
Introduction
Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), developed by Professor Paul Gilbert, is an integrative psychotherapy that draws on evolutionary psychology, affective neuroscience, attachment theory and developmental psychology. CFT is particularly helpful for clients experiencing high levels of shame and self-criticism and provides a framework for working with emotional regulation and attachment. CFT is a well-researched, evidence-based approach that can be used as a standalone treatment or can be integrated within other modalities. The webinar will introduce the theory and practice of CFT, with a focus on its clinical applications
The event will be equivalent to 5.1/2hrs of CPD.
Content
Participants will be introduced to CFT’s evolutionary framework for de-shaming, de-pathologising, and explaining human distress. This will include the three-system model of emotional regulation (threat, drive and soothing) and how balancing these systems contributes to wellbeing. Participants will then have the opportunity to experience Compassionate Mind Training exercises, led by the trainer. This will include body-based and imagery-focused practices to cultivate compassion and emotional soothing. Core methods for formulating client experiences will be introduced, with case examples, and the various skills of compassion will be operationalised. The final section of the webinar will focus on self-criticism and how CFT can be used to understand its function and counter its impact. This will include large group exercises and a video demonstration of chairwork.
Learning Objectives
Participants will gain:
• An overview of the theoretical foundations of CFT
• An understanding of the three affect regulation systems (threat, drive, soothing)
• Insight into the role of shame and self-criticism in psychopathology
• An introduction to core CFT techniques, including compassionate mind training and imagery practices
• Practical strategies for beginning to integrate CFT into therapeutic work
Training Modalities
The webinar will include didactic teaching, guided experiential practices, self-reflection tasks, illustrative videos, a clinical video demonstration, a question-and-answer sessions, and interactive large group exercise.
Key References
Gilbert, P. (2010). Compassion focused therapy: Distinctive features. London, UK: Routledge
Gilbert, P. (2014). The origins and nature of compassion focused therapy. British Journal of Clinical Psychology, 53(1), 6–41. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjc.12043
Irons, C., & Beaumont, E. (2017). The compassionate mind workbook: A step-by-step guide to developing your compassionate self. London, UK: Constable Robinson
Kolts, R. L. (2016). CFT made simple: A clinician’s guide to practicing compassion-focused therapy. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger.
Kolts, R. L., Bell, T., Bennett-Levy, J., & Irons, C. (2018). CFT from the inside out: A self-practice/self-reflection workbook for therapists. New York, NY: Guilford Press
About the presenter
Dr Tobyn Bell is a Compassion-Focused Psychotherapist, an accredited Schema Therapist and Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, and Voice Dialogue facilitator. He is a co-founder of Chairwork with Matthew Pugh and a co-author of the book ‘Compassion Focused Therapy from the Inside Out’. Tobyn regularly provides national and international training on compassion and chairwork and is actively involved in ongoing research in these areas. Tobyn is an honorary lecturer at the University of Manchester and is a senior fellow with Advance Higher Education.
Who should attend
This webinar is suitable for a wide range of delegates, including primary care practitioners (both low- and high-intensity), psychologists, nurse therapists, counsellors, psychiatrists, occupational therapists, and social workers. It is relevant for staff working with adults in primary or secondary care, or practitioners working with children and young people.