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Applying a process-based therapy approach to compassion focused therapy: A synergetic alliance

Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science (JCBS)
Special Issue on Process Based Therapy (PBT)
Volume 32, April 2024

Authors

Madeleine I. Fraser, Kaja Gregory

Abstract

Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) targets underlying shame and self-criticism to shift one's style of self-relating and capacity to engage with a soothing-affiliate mode. CFT has a strong evidence-base and has been adapted for diverse presenting problems and populations. CFT can serve as a stand-alone treatment approach, or an effective addition to other evidence-based approaches. This theoretical article proposes that CFT is a complementary and synergetic match with a Process-Based Therapy (PBT). This article outlines the theoretical compatibility of the two approaches before presenting an applied case study to illustrate a CFT case formulation using a PBT framework. An illustrative treatment plan is also proposed using the Extended Evolutionary Meta-Model (EEMM). Directions for further research to understand the exact mechanisms of action of CFT and its potential synergetic effects on other treatment approaches are proposed.

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