An imagery technique for working through painful memories: the adult "compassionate self" "enters" the memory and supports the child who was in that situation. Based on imagery rescripting with the addition of the CFT-specific resource of the compassionate self. A key technique for working with shame rooted in early relationships.
Step-by-step guide
- Pick a memory that is painful enough but not maximally traumatic (SUDS 40–60)
- Lead SRB + step into the position of the compassionate self
- "Look at the young you in this situation — what do you see? What does he/she feel?"
- "Imagine that the compassionate you steps into this scene. What would you say to the young you?"
- Allow time for the image to unfold — do not rush
- "What does the young you need right now?"
- Let the "young self" receive what is needed — support, protection, understanding
- Smoothly close the image, ground
When to use
- With chronic shame with early roots
- With self-blame for events of childhood
- With PTSD with episodes of shame and helplessness
- With attachment disturbances
Key phrases
Imagine that the compassionate part of you can step into this memory — as an adult, wise, kind person. What would you want to say to the little you? What does he/she need right now?
Follow-up questions
What is happening in the image? What do you see?
What does the young you need right now?
Alternative phrasings
Do not force a "happy ending" — the image follows the need.
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not use with severe dissociation
- ⚠️ With complex trauma — only after long stabilization
- ⚠️ Intense affect (grief) at the "meeting" with the young self — plan time for processing
Source: Gilbert P. 2010; Irons C. 2019
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.