By Louise Palmer, Integrative Humanistic Counsellor, Leeds & Malton

In today’s busy world, many of us carry heavy burdens of self-criticism, shame, and emotional overwhelm. As an integrative humanistic counsellor working in Leeds and Malton, I’ve seen firsthand how compassion work can be a powerful tool to transform these struggles into opportunities for healing and growth.

What is Compassion Work?

Compassion work is about cultivating a gentle, understanding relationship with yourself—learning to treat your pain and struggles with kindness rather than judgment. Drawing on humanistic values of empathy and unconditional positive regard, alongside integrative approaches like parts work and mindfulness, this work supports you in reconnecting with your own innate worth and resilience.

Why Compassion Matters

When you shift from self-criticism to self-compassion, you’re not only easing emotional pain, you’re creating space for healing and change. Compassion helps to:

• Reduce anxiety and shame
• Improve emotional regulation and resilience
• Foster deeper self-awareness and acceptance
• Support recovery from trauma and difficult experiences

How I Support You in Compassion Work

In my counselling practice in Leeds and Malton, I offer a compassionate, client-centred space where you can explore your inner world safely. Together, we may use:

• Parts work to identify and nurture different aspects of yourself, including your inner critic and compassionate voices
• Mindfulness practices to develop gentle awareness and acceptance of your experience
• Dialoguing techniques to foster self-understanding and integration
• Creative and expressive approaches to help you connect with your feelings in a holistic way

Begin Your Compassion Journey

Starting compassion work can feel challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Even small moments of self-kindness can create lasting change. If you’re ready to explore this journey, I’m here to walk alongside you.