Compassionate Relational Therapy: Core Concepts and Applications

Weaving together known successful interventions with innovative new methods, Compassionate Relational Therapy (CRT) offers a unique and cohesive method to strengthen relationships through decreased judgement and increased compassion within the self and with others.

Integrating evidence-based practices of family systems theory, compassion-focused therapy, and mindful self-compassion, CRT reframes and expands existing approaches to better fit the needs of romantic and familial relationship therapy. This model examines interaction and communication patterns to unfold and release guilt and shame with compassion and nonjudgmental curiosity toward our assumptions or unmet needs. With applications for family therapy, couple therapy, and sex therapy, readers will learn the skills to move toward self-kindness, situational and bodily mindfulness, and compassion toward a loved one’s humanness, and how one can create a sense of relational safety and connection without dependence. This book includes CRT’s core theory of change, guides for all stages of treatment, and interventions unique to this model that can be integrated into existing models of therapy. Additionally, it offers new interventions such as compassionate contextualization, temporary agreements, and compassionate restorations for work with diverse populations, with example cases and conversations in each chapter for easy application.

Written in a compassionate and accessible style, this is an essential guide for mental health clinicians of all kinds and all experience levels, from students to seasoned professionals.