Q: I've never done mindfulness or something like this before - is this course suitable for beginners?

A: Absolutely! This course is designed for all levels, and you don’t need to have a prior mindfulness or self-compassion practice or knowledge of these topics.

Q: How much time do I need to allocate for this course?

A: The core commitment is attending the weekly 2.5-hour live sessions. While this is the minimum requirement, the real magic happens when you incorporate brief daily practices into your life between sessions. Even 5-10 minutes of practice on most days can create meaningful shifts in how you relate to yourself.

Q: I struggle with consistency. How can I make sure this doesn't become just another obligation in my busy life?

A: This is exactly why the course is designed the way it is! We focus on simple, practical techniques that integrate into real life - not ideal, perfect life. The supportive community environment helps maintain motivation, and many participants find these practices so immediately beneficial that they naturally want to continue. That said, if you genuinely cannot set aside 2.5 hours weekly right now, it might be better to join a future course when you can fully participate.

Q: What if I miss a session?

A: Life happens! All sessions are recorded, so you can catch up on anything you miss. We recommend attending live whenever possible for the full interactive experience, but the recordings ensure you won't miss any content. To get the Certificate of Completion in the end, you will have to have attended a minimum of 6 of the 8 live sessions.

Q: When are the live sessions?

A: The live sessions are on Zoom every Monday, starting 16 June and ending 4 August, for 2.5 hours each time. The session start time is 5 pm CET (6 pm Finland, 8 am US Pacific Time, 10 am US Eastern time - convert to your timezone HERE).

The live online 3-hour retreat takes place on Sunday 20 July at 4 pm CET (5 pm Finland).

Q: Is this therapy? How is it different?

A: While many find this course therapeutically beneficial and while Molly is a therapist, it's not therapy. Mindful Self-Compassion is an educational program teaching specific skills that complement therapy. Many therapists actually recommend this course to their clients! If you're currently in therapy, this course can work wonderfully alongside your therapeutic work.

Q: Will I have to share personal things during group discussions?

A: Never. You always control how much or how little you share. Many participants find value in listening to others' experiences, and sharing is always optional. We create a safe, respectful environment where everyone's boundaries are honored.

Q: What makes this different from reading books or using apps about self-compassion?

A: The live, interactive format creates a depth of learning that's difficult to achieve alone. You'll receive direct guidance, personalized feedback, and the powerful motivation of practicing alongside others. The community aspect often becomes one of the most treasured parts of the experience, creating connections and insights that solo learning simply can't provide. This course is the official science-backed and evidence-based course developed by self-compassion pioneers Dr Kristin Neff and Dr Christopher Germer.

Q: I'm worried self-compassion might make me complacent, lazy, selfish or less motivated. Is that true?

A: This is a common concern, but research shows the opposite is true! Self-compassion actually leads to greater resilience, motivation, and personal accountability than self-criticism. You'll learn how kindness toward yourself creates the emotional safety needed for genuine growth and positive change (for yourself and people around you!)

Q: How long will I have access to the course materials?

A: You'll have access to all recordings and materials for 3 months after the course concludes, giving you plenty of time to revisit sessions and reinforce your learning.