Working with self-criticism, self-hatred and shame-based memories using Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)

This online, participative workshop has been organised by the Compassion Special Interest Group (SIG). For more details on Compassion SIG please see here.

A certificate of attendance will be issued for 6 x hours CPD. The event will be held on Zoom and will not be recorded.

Registration closes - Midday on Monday 25 November. Places are limited though so book early to avoid disappointment!

Synopsis

Self-criticism is a process of self-to-self relating that is characterised by negative self-evaluation. Its presence acts as a vulnerability and maintenance factor for a range of mental health difficulties, increases the risk of relapse, and inhibits the benefit of evidence-based treatments. Similarly, shame is a socially-focused, self-conscious emotion that is linked with feelings of inferiority, powerlessness and social unattractiveness. It is associated with a range of psychopathology and can negatively impact interpersonal relationships with others, including the therapeutic alliance. Shame memories have been found to have qualities similar to trauma memories and can become a central ‘touch-stone’ to how we define ourselves.

CFT was developed to target both self-criticism and shame and has been shown to be effective with a range of clinical presentations (e.g. Petrocchi et al., 2024). This workshop will demonstrate how CFT can be used to formulate and target self-criticism and shame. Participants will learn to identify different forms of self-criticism and understand how treatment differs when addressing self-hatred. There will also be an emphasis on understanding the influence of shame-based memories and how they can be targeted during treatment. The workshop will focus on experiential methods: chairwork, imagery, and body-based interventions. Participants will have the opportunity to practice these methods after observing them being modelled by the trainer.

This session would be suitable for those who are familiar with CFT training/practice and would be best suited for CBT practitioners who are fully accredited

Beginners are welcome, however having some understanding of CFT and the three circles beforehand would be beneficial. Prior reading can be sent out to help bridge any knowledge gaps if required.  The training will be accessible to all, but won't cover all the background of CFT.

1. Be able to differentiate self-criticism and self-hatred and understand the rationale for doing so

2. Have had an opportunity to observe and practice experiential interventions designed to target self-criticism and shame-based memories

3. Be able to understand the importance of shame and shame-based memories, and how to conceptualise them using CFT

4. Practice developing and applying compassion in clinical populations

5. Reflect on the role of prejudice and shame in clients from different backgrounds and protected identities