Shame can become one of the most significant barriers to growth work. This is because of the strong avoidance defenses we create to disconnect from the feeling of shame. Shame can become an elusive emotion that never fully gets to be seen or understood and, therefore, remains a powerful drive for thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and even body activation.

Shame can profoundly affect our self-esteem, self-worth, and overall well-being. It can lead to feelings of isolation, self-doubt, and a negative self-image. It can also manifest in destructive ways, such as self-criticism, perfectionism, and a fear of vulnerability. The nature of shame can also hinder our ability to form meaningful connections with others and limit our willingness to take risks or pursue goals.

The good news is that shame isn’t as impossible to work with as it may seem at times, and this course will address key factors that lay the foundation for working with shame, including conscious awareness, curiosity, and self-compassion. These factors help reduce the avoidance of shame and create more willingness to explore the core wounds connected to shame. This work can help reduce shame activation and build resilience, leading to more meaningful connection with yourself and others.