Perfectionism and selfcritical tendencies increase the risk of developing depression. Self criticism is a way to avoid maladaptive shame and fear for rejection, which originates from unfulfilled emotional needs in relation to important care takers. In psychotherapy, this shame can be transformed by bringing the client in contact with alternative, healthy feelings of pride, selfcompassion or assertive anger. Based on a case study, this article discusses how self compassion can be cultivated in Emotion-focused therapy, for example by being creative in using the compassionate selfsoothing task.
self-criticism, perfectionism, self-compassion, self-soothing, emotion-focused therapy
The tPeP (Journal Person-centered experiential Psychotherapy) is the scientific journal for Dutch and Flemish psychotherapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists, that work from, or are interested in a client-centered perspective.