Compassion-Oriented Therapies: Discarding Shame for Self-Acceptance (3 HR) Syllabus

I. Foundations of Compassion-Oriented Therapy

• Define compassion and self-compassion
• Understand compassion as sensitivity to suffering and a desire to alleviate it
• Recognize self-compassion as a balance of kindness, mindfulness, and common humanity
• Explore the psychological and physiological benefits of self-compassion

II. The Neuroscience and Research of Self-Compassion

• Examine how self-compassion reduces the threat response and activates calming systems
• Review evidence linking self-compassion with reduced stress, anxiety, and depression
• Explore the work of Dr. Kristin Neff and tools such as the Self-Compassion Scale

III. Self-Compassion as a Response to Shame

• Identify common reactions to self-threat: self-criticism, isolation, and rumination
• Understand self-compassion as a corrective to shame and self-judgment
• Learn how self-compassion fosters emotional resilience and self-acceptance

IV. Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Self-Compassion

• Define mindfulness as present, purposeful, and nonjudgmental awareness
• Explore the role of self-compassion in reducing over-identification with negative thoughts
• Integrate mindfulness practices that foster kindness and reduce emotional reactivity
• Use compassionate letter writing and observer self exercises

V. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Self-Compassion

• Understand ACT’s focus on accepting internal experiences rather than avoiding them
• Use self-compassion to soften responses to distress and reduce experiential avoidance
• Support values-based action through defusion and compassion toward difficult thoughts
• Apply compassionate reframing to promote psychological flexibility

VI. Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)

• Explore CFT’s evolutionary roots in attachment, threat, drive, and soothing systems
• Understand the three emotion regulation systems: threat, drive, and soothing
• Engage in psychoeducation around the “tricky brain” to reduce shame and self-blame
• Use techniques such as compassionate imagery, breathing, and behavioral practice
• Develop the compassionate self to work with internal parts such as the inner critic

VII. Working with the Inner Critic

• Use diagnostic interview questions to engage the inner critic with curiosity
• Explore the inner critic’s protective intent and underlying fears
• Distinguish between guilt-based and shame-based self-talk
• Develop a compassionate internal voice to counteract critical patterns

VIII. Experiential Practices and Self-Reflection

• Write letters to body parts to foster self-acceptance and gratitude
• Practice Loving-Kindness Meditation to expand compassion for self and others
• Engage with journal prompts that support emotional awareness and healing
• Explore body-focused compassion practices such as Heart Breath

IX. Compassion-Informed Tools and Techniques

• Use Compassion Formulation Worksheets to explore past influences and protective behaviors
• Apply Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) with self-compassionate phrasing
• Support clients in identifying needs, blocks to self-care, and next steps toward healing
• Incorporate guided imagery and behavioral experiments to reinforce compassion-based change