Common Client Conundrums: Shame & Guilt part 2 (all about shame)

Welcome to "Common Client Conundrums," a segment where we delve into the everyday issues that are discussed in therapy and share insights and evidence-based interventions. In this episode, host Juniper Owens, LCSW and Director of the Academy of Integrative Mental Health explores the intricate dynamics of shame in part two of our guilt and shame series.

From its cultural influences to its personal manifestations, Juniper uncovers the layers of shame, shedding light on its impact on individuals and communities alike. Join us as we navigate the terrain of shame, discussing its connections to trauma, societal expectations, and personal resilience.

Tune in for insightful discussions, real-life examples, and evidence-based strategies for addressing shame in therapeutic contexts. Together, let's unravel the mysteries of shame and cultivate a deeper understanding of this complex emotion.

In this episode: 

• Introduction to Shame: Exploring the nature of shame as a complex and powerful emotion involving feelings of embarrassment, humiliation, and distress.
• Cultural Influences: Examining how shame is shaped by societal norms and expectations and its role as a tool for social control.
• Collective Shame: Discuss how historical events, injustices, and stereotypes contribute to collective shame within cultures or communities.
• Example: Highlighting racial and gender disparities in healthcare and their connection to historical trauma and systemic discrimination.
• Trauma and Shame: Exploring the link between shame and trauma, and how experiences of shame can exacerbate mental health issues.
• Symptoms of Shame: Identifying emotional, cognitive, behavioral, physical, and interpersonal symptoms of shame.
• Shame Resilience Mechanisms: Discussing defense mechanisms and coping strategies individuals may use to protect themselves from shame.
• Therapeutic Approaches: Exploring evidence-based interventions for addressing shame, including self-compassion, psychodrama, and mindfulness.
• Brene Brown's Shame Resilience Theory: Understanding the four aspects of shame resilience and how they contribute to healing and personal growth.
• Societal Views on Pleasure: Reflecting on cultural attitudes toward pleasure and how they contribute to feelings of shame and guilt.

Find references on our blog post!