For Beginners

Anyone can learn and practice self-compassion! Self-compassion has many benefits for you, your loved ones, and your community.
All Are Welcome
The purpose of the Center for Mindful Self-Compassion is to alleviate human suffering and to improve the collective well-being of our world through the practice of self-compassion. Welcome, we are so glad you are here.
Featured Courses

Mindful Non-Self-Compassion: Exploring the Self in Self-Compassion
June 6th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM PT: Join Chris Germer and Andrew Olendzki on as they explore precisely what is meant by “self” in early Buddhist psychology and in the widely known Mindful Self-Compassion training program during this 3-hour workshop.
Self-Compassion Training for Healthcare Communities (SCHC)
Thursdays starting June 22 – July 27, 4:00-5:00 PT: 6-week course for healthcare professionals to prevent burnout and strengthen resilience.


Fierce Self-Compassion Workshop with Kristin Neff
July 15, 9:00 AM – 12:15 PM PT: Join Kristin Neff as she invites us to live a life of fierce self-compassion by learning how taking action in the world to protect, provide and motivate ourselves to alleviate suffering during this 3-hour workshop.
Live Online Mindful Self-Compassion
Multiple Times Available: Take MSC from the comfort of your home. Upcoming live online 10-week courses.


Antidote to Shame Workshop, with Christopher Germer
November 1 & 8, 4-7 pm PT: Please join Chris Germer, PhD, clinical psychologist and co-developer of the Mindful Self-Compassion training, for a 6-hour, online, experiential workshop including talks, meditation, research, exercises, and discussion. We will take a fresh, non-pathological look at shame through the eyes of compassion.
Our Latest Blog Posts
The Story of Hanna: How Self-Compassion Can Foster Healthy Relationships
Healthy relationships are central to our physical and emotional health. Whether a relationship is familial, romantic, plutonic, collegial, or that of a patient and therapist, self-compassion benefits everyone involved.
MSC Teacher Sema Demirkan Opens School of Compassion in Turkey
Sema Demirkan (MSC Teacher) opens School of Compassion in Turkey, partners with international NGO's to build culture of compassion.
A Personal Message from New CMSC Executive Director Elijah Zimmerman
Executive Director Elijah Zimmerman, Ph.D introduces himself and shares his background in inclusive leadership and community projects.
Our Founders


The Center for Mindful Self-Compassion (CMSC) was founded in 2012 by Dr. Chris Germer and Dr. Kristin Neff to be the global leader in self-compassion training and practice. The Center is a US-based nonprofit that serves students and certifies MSC teachers internationally. Through online and in-person public programs, workshops, and professional training, we create a world that is kinder, healthier and more enjoyable for all.