Image

Presentation: The effectiveness of Compassion Focused Therapy: Three studies from the UQ Compassionate Mind Research Group

Presenter: Dr Stan Steindl is a clinical psychologist in private practice at Psychology Consultants Pty Ltd, and an adjunct professor at the School of Psychology, University of Queensland. He is co-director of the UQ Compassionate Mind Research Group, and convenor of the annual UQ Compassion Symposium. His book, The Gifts of Compassion: How to Understand and Overcome Suffering, is a popular self-help or therapy companion book based on compassion focused therapy.

Abstract: Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) has emerged as a promising and evidence-based approach in contemporary psychotherapy, centered on the cultivation of compassion and self-compassion to alleviate emotional distress and promote overall well-being. This talk describes three studies conducted at the UQ Compassionate Mind Research Group that explore the effectiveness of CFT and its transformative impact on individuals struggling with various psychological challenges: body and weight-related shame, veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder, and women recovering from the traumatic effects of childhood sexual abuse. The research underscores the profound potential of CFT to reduce self-criticism, shame, posttraumatic stress symptoms, and depression and anxiety, as well as promote psychological well-being. CFT offers great opportunities to aid in the wellbeing of various people in various life situations, and is an important and growing area of practice and research for clinicians and researchers.