Self-Compassion by Kristin Neff (original) (raw)
With self-compassion, we give ourselves the same kindness and support we’d give to a good friend
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Take a Short Course in Mindful Self-Compassion
The Short Course in Mindful Self-Compassion (SC-MSC) is a live online program based on the empirically-supported MSC training developed by Dr. Kristin Neff and Dr. Christopher Germer. In this six week course, you’ll learn practical tools for responding to self-criticism and difficult emotions with greater kindness, resilience, and inner support. You’ll also receive six months membership in the Self-Compassion Community (SCC), allowing you to deepen your learning and integrate it into daily life.
SESSIONS
Six SC-MSC Sessions
Six 90-minute sessions, live via Zoom — with recordings available if you miss a session.
Community
Six Months SCC Membership
Access to Gatherings with Kristin, mentor sessions, 50+ guided practices, and more.
Credits
CE Credits Available
APA: 9.0 hrs · BRN: 10.0 hrs · optional add-on for licensed professionals.
Upcoming Courses
Short Course in Mindful Self Compassion with Laila (June 23, 2026)
with Laila Narsi
Tuesdays Starts June 23, 2026 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM CT
Upcoming Courses
Short Course in Mindful Self Compassion with James (July 11, 2026)
with James Rosser
Saturdays Starts July 11, 2026 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM CT
Upcoming Courses
Short Course in Mindful Self Compassion with Aimee (July 22, 2026)
with Aimee Eckhardt
Wednesdays Starts July 22, 2026 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM CT
Upcoming Courses
Short Course in Mindful Self Compassion with Amy (August 6, 2026)
with Amy Noelle
Thursdays Starts August 6, 2026 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM CT
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Tuition: $395 · Scholarships available · 10% discount for annual SCC members
Self-compassion is simply the process of turning compassion inward. We’re kind and understanding rather than harshly self-critical when we fail, make mistakes, or feel inadequate. We give ourselves support and encouragement rather than being cold or judgmental when challenges and difficulties arise in our lives. Research indicates that self-compassion is one of the most powerful sources of coping and resilience we have available, radically improving our mental and physical wellbeing. It motivates us to make changes and reach our goals not because we’re inadequate, but because we care and want to be happy.
Join the Self-Compassion Community
Enter a supportive space and learn how to befriend yourself in times of struggle to grow your inner strength. As a member, you’ll receive access to:
- A self-paced Self-Compassion Intro Course taught by Dr. Kristin Neff
- Monthly events with Kristin and expert guests like Tara Brach and Dan Siegel
- Drop-in mentor sessions, a practice toolkit, video library, and discount on workshops
Recent Blog Posts by Dr. Neff
Not Taking Things Personally
We often judge ourselves harshly for the thoughts and emotions that arise, forgetting they’re shaped by countless causes beyond our control. By practicing self‑compassion, we can stop taking things so personally—replacing judgment with understanding, and relating to our imperfect human experience with kindness.
What do I need in this moment?
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to pause and ask the essential self-compassion question: What do I need? Healing isn’t one-size-fits-all—it can mean staying with difficult emotions or grounding ourselves when they feel overwhelming.
Finding Peace in Chaotic Times
In chaotic times, both outer and inner, peace doesn’t come from controlling circumstances—it comes from self-compassion. By resting our attention on the breath, we cultivate mindfulness, kindness, and a sense of common humanity. Together, these create a refuge of stability and warmth, reminding us that even in uncertainty, we can find our seat and offer ourselves care
Take the Free Five-Day Self-Compassion Challenge through Sounds True
Books
Self-Compassion
This classic book is the place to start to learn how to treat yourself as you would a friend, enabling you to achieve your highest potential and live a more fulfilled life.
Fierce Self-Compassion
Fierce Self-Compassion involves taking action to protect, motivate and provide for ourselves. This book reveals how to use self-compassion to transform ourselves and the world.
The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook
This workbook takes readers through the essentials of the Mindful Self-Compassion program. It will help you develop the life-changing skill of self-compassion.
Mindful Self-Compassion For Burnout
This practical and engaging book offers tools to help you learn quick and powerful ways to recharge your batteries, de-stress, and, above all, be kind to yourself--so you can be there for others.
Kristin Neff, Ph.D. is a pioneer in the study of self-compassion, being the first one to operationally define and measure the construct more than twenty years ago. She has been recognized as one of the world’s most influential research psychologists. Together with her colleague Dr. Chris Germer, she has created several empirically supported self-compassion training programs and co-founded the Center for Mindful Self-compassion. Dr. Neff has written several best-selling books about self-compassion, and is often featured in podcasts and other media advocating for the power of self-compassion to change lives.
TEDx Talk: The difference between self-compassion and self-esteem
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Note: Since processing these applications takes time, it can take 2 weeks or more to go through the process of joining the membership process. We appreciate your patience.
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