We all have an inner critic—a voice within that evaluates, judges, and often berates us. While it may vary in tone and intensity from person to person, the inner critic is a near-universal experience. It frequently manifests as self-doubt, harsh judgment, or relentless perfectionism, shaping how we view ourselves and
Childhood Wounds and the Legacy of Shame
There are a wide range of issues that can motivate someone to start therapy. Anxiety and depression, struggles with alcohol and/or substances, relationship challenges, and the fallout of infidelity are common examples. Emotional distress, self-sabotaging behaviors, or a pervasive sense of unease often stem from underlying issues that may not
The Destructive Path of Toxic Shame
“I wish I could be more like my friend Jermaine. When he gets rejected, he just shrugs and lets it roll off his back. ‘Their loss,’ he’ll say, sometimes with a tinge of anger. But not me. When I get rejected, I sink down into a shame response so deep
Why Your Past Matters
When someone comes to therapy to address an issue that is negatively impacting their life, part of the therapist’s job is to build an understanding of what is getting in the client’s way of living a more fulfilling life. This understanding evolves as more becomes known about the person and
Trauma, Shame and Loneliness
The experience of trauma is inherently shaming and isolating. Attachment traumas (psychological wounds caused by those you were dependent upon or those who had power over you) cause considerable levels of anxiety and confusion, and feelings of betrayal and rejection, that are difficult to navigate. Children and teens who suffer