In any therapeutic work we do, self-compassion is a critical component not only for clients but for ourselves as clinicians. When our clients view themselves through a lens of self-compassion their healing reaches new depths, and when we as healthcare providers can embody self-compassion, so does our own healing and practice. This training will discuss self-compassion as a way towards holistic healing and why it is an important therapeutic tool. Participants will learn self-compassion based on the work of Dr. Tara Brach and Dr. Kristin Neff, and various strategies and techniques to use individually and in practice.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Define and describe the principles of self-compassion.
- Understand the benefits of self-compassion.
- Learn how to implement self-compassion interventions with clients and self.
Syllabus:
Objective #1: Foundations of Self-Compassion
- Define self-compassion as treating oneself with kindness during difficulty or failure
- Describe the three core components: self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness
- Identify the difference between self-compassion and self-pity, self-indulgence, or self-esteem
- Introduce key contributors to the field including Dr. Kristin Neff, Tara Brach, and Dr. Dan Siegel
Objective #2: Benefits of Self-Compassion
- Increase resilience and emotional regulation
- Improve overall well-being and mental health outcomes
- Reduce anxiety, depression, and negative self-talk
- Rewire the brain to accept kindness and compassion
- Provide a secure internal attachment system for clients and clinicians
Objective #3: Implementing Self-Compassion Interventions
- Use the Self-Compassion Scale – Short Form to assess client self-compassion levels
- Facilitate exercises such as the Inner Critic vs. Compassionate Being visualization
- Guide clients through addressing internal voices with curiosity and compassion
- Use the RAIN technique (Recognize, Allow, Investigate, Nurture) as taught by Tara Brach
- Explore and normalize client concerns about self-compassion being selfish or indulgent
Objective #4: Clinical Application Through Case Examples
- Provide real-life scenarios demonstrating self-kindness in client setbacks
- Reframe harsh self-judgments using compassionate language
- Highlight how mindfulness and common humanity reduce shame and isolation
- Use internal family systems-informed dialogue to support compassionate integration
Objective #5: Supplemental Tools and Exercises
- Practice the Self-Compassion Break using three steps: mindfulness, common humanity, and kindness
- Facilitate reflective questions like “What would you say to a loved one feeling this way?”
- Explore dialogue with a loved one, inner child, or compassionate figure
- Encourage compassionate action through self-care routines, grounding touch, and healthy routines
- Introduce self-compassion mantras to support internal regulation and healing
Social workers completing this course receive 2 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 2 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Ashley Esry, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Recording Date: October 12, 2024
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 2hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com