Compassion-Focused Therapy in New York & California
Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) is available through Cornell & Associates Marriage and Family Therapy for clients in New York and California. This practice offers supportive care for individuals who feel caught in patterns of shame, self-criticism, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm, and want to relate to themselves with more steadiness and kindness. Rooted in the understanding of how the mind and nervous system respond to stress, CFT helps clients develop tools to soothe inner tension, strengthen emotional balance, and build a deeper sense of safety within. With a warm and grounded approach, clients are supported in cultivating self-compassion, increasing resilience, and creating meaningful change in daily life and relationships.
Find Healing and Growth with Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) is offered through the private practice of Cornell & Associates Marriage and Family Therapy for clients in New York and California. With a warm, supportive approach, the practice helps individuals who are struggling with self-criticism, anxiety, shame, or emotional distress begin to build a kinder, more understanding relationship with themselves.
Cornell & Associates also offers in-person individual and couples therapy in New York, NY and San Diego, CA, as well as online therapy for clients across New York and California—making support accessible and personalized, wherever clients are located.
What is Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)?
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) is a structured therapeutic approach designed to help clients cultivate self-compassion, regulate emotions, and move out of cycles of shame and self-criticism. Developed by Dr. Paul Gilbert, CFT can be especially helpful for individuals navigating:
- Anxiety and depression
- Trauma and PTSD
- Chronic stress
- Low self-esteem and harsh self-judgment
- Shame and guilt
Drawing from mindfulness, cognitive and behavioral tools, and body-based awareness, CFT supports clients in strengthening emotional resilience and developing a more balanced, compassionate inner voice—especially during difficult moments.
Our Approach to Compassion-Focused Therapy
We believe that every client’s healing journey is unique. Our CFT approach integrates:
- Mindfulness and meditation – Helping you stay present and develop a non-judgmental awareness of your thoughts and emotions.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques – Identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to self-criticism.
- Guided imagery and visualization – Encouraging you to access inner sources of strength and self-kindness.
- Somatic awareness – Connecting your emotional and physical experiences for a deeper understanding of how stress affects your body and mind.
By working together, we help you build self-compassion as a tool for emotional healing, leading to greater self-acceptance and inner peace.
In-Person and Online Therapy Options
We recognize that accessibility is key when it comes to mental health care. That’s why we offer both in-person and online therapy sessions to fit your lifestyle and needs:
- In-Person Therapy – Available at our locations in New York, NY and San Diego, CA, ideal for those who prefer face-to-face interaction in a warm and welcoming environment.
- Online Therapy – Available for clients across New York and California, allowing you to access expert therapy from the comfort of your home.
Whether you prefer in-person or virtual therapy, our compassionate therapists are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for your healing journey.
Why Choose Cornell & Associates for Compassion-Focused Therapy in New York and California?
Cornell & Associates Marriage and Family Therapy offers a thoughtful, personalized approach to care rooted in warmth, depth, and practical support. This private practice stands out by providing:
- Nervous system–informed care – Sessions are guided by an understanding of how the nervous system holds stress, fear, and protective responses. Clients are supported in building greater safety within, increasing emotional resilience, and responding to themselves with more compassion.
- A holistic and grounded approach – In addition to talk therapy, sessions may incorporate mindfulness, breathwork, and body-awareness practices to support emotional healing and regulation.
- Care tailored to each client’s concerns – Support is shaped around the individual, with attention to personal history, emotional patterns, relationships, and lived experience.
- Flexible options for accessibility – In-person sessions are available in New York, NY and San Diego, CA, along with online therapy across New York and California to ensure therapy can fit into real life.
