Experience the proven power of self-compassion.

Founded by Dr. Chris Germer and Dr. Kristin Neff to be the global leader in self-compassion training and practice.

For Beginners

Anyone can learn and practice self-compassion! Self-compassion has many benefits for you, your loved ones, and your community.

For MSC Graduates

Self-compassion is a lifelong practice. After a Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) course, continue to explore aspects of self-compassion through advanced skills workshops and classes.

Professional Training

CMSC offers Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) teacher certification and professional development programs for healthcare providers, psychotherapists, educators, and more.

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.

Fierce Self-Compassion 8 Week Course

With Mila De Koning and Helle Laursen

March 26 – May 21, 2024 (Tuesday, 8am – 10:30 am PT): This unique course explores the action-oriented side of self-compassion that begins with the inner work of fierce self-compassion. Previous experience with self-compassion is required, before taking this course. This course will take you one step further as you learn how self-compassion can help you speak up and claim your power.

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Introduction to Self-Compassion for Shame Workshop

Tuesday, April 2 and Friday, April 5, 2024 9:00am – 12:00pm 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.

Mindful Self-Compassion for Teens Course

Mondays, April 15 – June 10, 2024 (with no session on May 27th) from 4:30 – 6:00pm PST: MSC-T (Formerly Making Friends with Yourself) teaches core principles and practices that enable teens to respond to the challenges of these critical years with kindness and self-compassion. The intention of this class is to help teens return to school, which we know can be very challenging. This course is only for 14-18 year olds only.

Self-Compassion for Caregivers Workshop with Kristin Neff

April 27th from 9am – 12pm PT: This live online workshop with Dr. Kristin Neff will present theory and research on the key role that self-compassion plays for caregivers and explore practices that can help individuals maintain equilibrium in difficult caregiving situations.

Live Online Mindful Self-Compassion

Multiple Times Available: Take MSC from the comfort of your home. Upcoming live online 10-week courses.

5-Day | Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Silent Retreat – Online

May 14 – 19, 2024: We are offering this unique opportunity to engage in a silent retreat, from the comfort of your own home. Beth Mulligan and Hugh O’Neill, both Certified MSC Teachers, will be holding the retreat virtually. They will guide you through the retreat just as they would in person, while you can stay healthy, safe and sleep in your own bed.

Self-Compassion for Healthcare Communities
6-week Course with Adrienne Gaudet

This abbreviated MSC program was specifically designed for the general healthcare public to address the unique time constraints, workplace culture, and stressors of healthcare professionals.

Monthly Feature Meditation

Affectionate Breathing with Raphael Jay Adjani

Join this Affectionate Breathing meditation from Raphael Jay Adjani, originally recorded during Session Two of the 10-Week Live Online MSC Course. The intention of this meditation is to bring mindful awareness to the present moment by specifically focusing on the breath, while also bringing care in a compassionate way to yourself and your experience. Hopefully, this guided practice will enable you to practice awareness that can help regulate your emotions during stressful moments, allowing you to connect more warmly with yourself.

Raphael Jay Adjani is a Certified MSC Teacher, please find his next available course here.

Our Latest Blog Posts

Quick Six: Practices or reminders to pay attention to what it is you really need

Quick Six: Practices or reminders to pay attention to what it is you really need

Lisa Baylis, Certified MSC Teacher and CMSC Director of Education talks about reminders of what you could offer yourself to help you feel better in a moment of struggle.

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Cultivating a Good Life in 2024

Cultivating a Good Life in 2024

Compassion for ourselves is the opposite of selfish. It enables us to flourish, to shine and to thrive, even as we get old, together or alone. Learn six ways to…

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Empower Your Self-Compassion Practice for Inspired Personal and Professional Growth this New Year

Empower Your Self-Compassion Practice for Inspired Personal and Professional Growth this New Year

It's that time of year again, for new beginnings, a fresh start, a healthier, more intentional outlook. Oh yes, that again! So often in January we feel the need, and…

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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.

Global Mindful Self-Compassion Community

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