What is CBCT? A Science-Based Approach to Compassion
The idea of compassion has become more common over the past few years. But what does this mean, what is cognitively based compassion training and what is the science behind it?
In workplaces, schools, and healthcare settings, the idea of compassion is often treated as a soft skill—something nice to have, but not necessarily essential. Yet decades of research show the opposite: compassion isn’t just an abstract virtue, it’s a measurable skill that improves resilience, strengthens relationships, and even enhances health outcomes.
One structured, evidence-based way to cultivate compassion is through CBCT® (Cognitively-Based Compassion Training). Developed at Emory University, CBCT translates ancient contemplative practices into a secular, science-informed program for modern life.
What is CBCT?
CBCT is an educational and contemplative training that helps individuals develop greater awareness, emotional balance, and compassion for themselves and others. Unlike general mindfulness practices that focus primarily on attention, CBCT explicitly emphasizes how we relate to ourselves and others—moving from self-care to empathy to genuine compassion.
The training draws on both psychological research and contemplative traditions, offering practical exercises such as guided reflections, journaling prompts, and meditation.
How Does It Work?
CBCT is structured in progressive steps that build on each other:
Stabilizing the Mind – Cultivating attention and emotional regulation.
Self-Compassion – Recognizing our own struggles without judgment.
Perspective-Taking – Understanding others’ experiences and interconnectedness.
Empathic Concern – Opening to others’ emotions with genuine care.
Compassionate Engagement – Channeling empathy into sustainable, effective action.
This structured approach helps compassion shift from a fleeting emotion into a reliable capacity that can be applied in daily life.
Why Does Compassion Training Matter?
Research suggests that compassion-based programs like CBCT can:
Reduce stress, anxiety, and burnout
Improve immune function and resilience
Strengthen workplace culture and collaboration
Enhance patient care in healthcare environments
Support conflict resolution and social connection
In other words, compassion isn’t just “being nice”—it’s a skill that supports well-being and performance at every level of human interaction.
Where is CBCT Being Used?
CBCT has been applied in diverse contexts worldwide, including:
Healthcare – Supporting clinicians to reduce burnout and improve patient outcomes.
Education – Helping students and teachers foster empathy, focus, and resilience.
Business & Leadership – Building emotionally intelligent, compassionate leadership cultures.
Corrections & Social Programs – Supporting individuals in high-stress, high-trauma contexts.
A Science-Based Approach to Human Flourishing
At its core, CBCT is about human flourishing. It shows that compassion can be studied, practiced, and strengthened—just like any other skill. And in an age where disconnection and stress run high, compassion may be one of the most practical and transformative tools we have.
If you’ve ever thought compassion was simply a personality trait, CBCT offers a different perspective: it’s a trainable capacity, backed by science, with benefits for both personal and professional life.
Whether you’re a healthcare professional, educator, leader, or simply someone curious about well-being, exploring CBCT can be a powerful step toward cultivating compassion—for yourself and the communities you serve.
