Group Therapy for Self-Compassion
Grounded in compassion focused therapy (CFT), this psychotherapy group offers a supportive, structured space to explore meaningful change related to self-compassion. Sessions run weekly for 50 minutes and are held either online or in person. This group runs for a total of 7 weekly sessions and is open to adults aged 18 and up.
CFT GROUP THERAPY
Self-Compassion: From Criticism to Kindness
Group Description
This therapy group is designed to help you shift from harsh self-criticism toward a more compassionate, supportive relationship with yourself. Drawing on principles of compassion-focused therapy (CFT), mindfulness, and cognitive approaches, the group explores how self-compassion can improve emotional resilience and overall well-being.
Each session builds on the last, blending psychoeducation, group discussion, and experiential practices to support real-life integration of self-compassion skills.
You’ll receive a weekly PDF covering core concepts, along with guided imagery, reflection activities, and practical strategies to help you quiet your inner critic, respond to challenges with kindness, and foster a more nurturing inner voice.
Group Facilitator
Michelle Lehoux holds dual professional registrations with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT). With a background in both psychotherapy and education, she has facilitated workshops across diverse sectors—including mental health, family wellness, and refugee resettlement—bringing a trauma-informed lens and deep respect for each person’s lived experience. Known for her calm and grounding presence, Michelle brings a gentle, steady energy to her work, creating a safe and supportive space where clients can reflect, connect, and grow.
Weekly Topics
Week 1
Understanding Self-Compassion
- We begin by exploring what self-compassion really means, how it differs from self-esteem, and why it’s so essential to our mental health. This session sets the foundation for the weeks ahead, especially in understanding how self-compassion can help us quiet our inner critic.
Week 2
Barriers to Self-Compassion
- This week focuses on common barriers that get in the way of being kinder to ourselves. We’ll look at the hidden beliefs we might hold—like thinking self-criticism is motivating, or that self-compassion is weak—and begin to gently challenge these patterns.
Week 3
Preparing for Self-Compassion
- Before we can respond with compassion, we need to recognize when we’re struggling. This session offers the first practical steps—training your attention to notice self-critical moments, and using breath and body awareness to create a calmer, more open space within.
Week 4
Compassionate Imagery
- Imagery can be a powerful tool for emotional change. In this session, you’ll learn how to develop a personalized compassionate image—one you can call on in difficult moments to help access feelings of warmth, safety, and support.
Week 5
Self-Compassionate Thinking
- This session helps you translate compassionate feelings into a more helpful internal dialogue. Using tools like compassionate thought records and letter writing, you’ll practice responding to yourself with understanding, rather than judgment.
Week 6
Self-Compassionate Behaviour
- Self-compassion isn’t just about how we think—it’s also about how we act. This week, we’ll explore ways to behave more compassionately toward yourself and others, especially when facing life’s inevitable challenges.
Week 7
Self-Compassionate Living
- In our final session, we’ll bring everything together to support long-term change. You’ll reflect on what you’ve learned, create a Self-Compassion Action Plan, and explore how to keep these practices alive in your day-to-day life.
Next Session:
Start Date: Monday, July 7th
End Date: Monday, August 25th
No session on Monday, August 4 (Civic Holiday).
Format: Virtual (Using Therabyte platform)
Frequency: Weekly
Total sessions: 7
Cost per session: $40/session (Total: $280)
Group size: Limit of 6