Client experience of compassion focused therapy (CFT) & compassion following therapy

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Maund, Elizabeth (2024). Client experience of compassion focused therapy (CFT) & compassion following therapy. University of Birmingham. Clin.Psy.D.

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Abstract

Meta synthesis abstract:
Introduction: This meta-ethnography aimed to synthesise the existing literature surrounding participant experiences of Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) interventions. This was to address a gap in the literature and bring together the emerging qualitative studies concerned with CFT.

Method: A combination of a systematic literature search and additional search strategies was used to identify the existing qualitative studies. Four databases were searched covering a range of healthcare disciplines. A meta-ethnography was conducted according to the 7 stages outlined by Noblit and Hare (1988) and these are outlined along with details about how this was carried out by the researcher.

Results: 3 overarching themes and 7 subthemes were identified. These related to ‘psychological safeness’, CFT active ingredients’ and ‘processes of change’. Within the themes, the role of the therapist, the group experience, resonance of the model, practice of skills and barriers to compassion are explored. Participants recognised the changes they experienced during CFT and their implications for their future.

Discussion: The results are discussed in the context of the broader processes of change literature and the common experiences of individuals who have experienced CFT. The results have particular implications also for the broader therapy literature around group processes. Potential limitations are also discussed.

Empirical abstract:
Introduction: This IPA aimed at addressing a gap in the literature surrounding long-term follow up and client experience of compassion following CFT.

Method: Participants were recruited from a pool of participants from a previous study. All participants had completed a 12-month CFT intervention and were identified as having experienced attachment and relational trauma. Seven IPA stages were followed alongside reflexivity and credibility checks including consultation with the wider research team during the development of themes and research supervision.

Results: 3 overarching themes and 7 subthemes were identified. These included participants experience of initial therapeutic ‘epiphanies’, steps taken to integrate ideas and their experiences of compassion post therapy. The transformative impact of compassion on their decision making post therapy and their key relationships are also highlighted. A sense that compassion is a work in progress is also identified.

Discussion: The concept of epiphanies are discussed in the context of the broader behaviour change literature as well as the idea of compassion being likened to a journey. The contribution of these findings to the CFT literature base is highlighted as prior follow-up study was scarce and short in duration. Potential limitations are discussed as well as the clinical implications for services supporting adults with attachment and relational trauma.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.

Supervisor(s):