Summary

The Compassion Focused Therapy programme started in SPMHS in 2014. Since it began thirteen cycles of the group have been facilitated. The programme has received considerable interest within the hospital. Research by a Clinical Psychologist in Training was undertaken in 2014-5, titled “An Evaluation of a Compassion Focused Therapy Group Programme Designed for Individuals with High Self-Criticism and Shame”. An article based on this study has been submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

Anecdotal feedback from clients who attended these groups has been largely positive, with clients reporting noticeable improvements in their lives. This feedback has been supported statistically by the findings of this report; specifically by the reduction of symptoms of psychological distress as measured by the BSI following completion of the group.

Fears of self-compassion were found to significantly decrease while service user self-perceptions of their ability to feel safe in and draw on their relationships for support significantly increased following completion of the group.

The CFT group delivery format is currently under review in an effort to ensure a high quality service that meets service user’s needs. Additional research on the CFT Programme is currently being undertaken by a Clinical Psychologist in Training. This research is titled “Investigating changes that occur as a result of engaging in a Compassion Focused Therapy group intervention”.