62. Shame and Guilt in therapy - an EMDR approach

In this episode, we explore two of the most complex and misunderstood emotions in human psychology — shame and guilt. While guilt tells us “I’ve done something bad,” shame tells us “I am bad.” Drawing on the groundbreaking research of Dr. Brené Brown, we unpack how shame develops, why it’s often hidden even within therapy, and — most importantly — how it can be healed. Through deep clinical experience and reflections on EMDR practice, this episode offers a compassionate and hopeful roadmap to move from shame toward self-acceptance, self-compassion, and healing. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • The difference between shame and guilt • How shame can serve an adaptive purpose — but only when it’s specific • How childhood shame can show up as adult anxiety, perfectionism, or self-sabotage. • How avoiding shame often deepens it. • How healing shame requires both emotional reprocessing (EMDR) and self-compassion practices.  Key Highlights: • Shame vs. Guilt • Adaptive vs. Maladaptive Shame • Defences against shame: Brené Brown’s “shame shields” • Schema therapy perspectives – overcompensation, avoidance, and surrender • Using EMDR therapy to reprocess shame at its root  Resources Mentioned: • EMDR Therapy for Trauma: If you're in Australia and want personalized support, Dr. Lloyd’s individual or group therapy sessions may be right for you . • EMDR Doctor Membership: If you’ve experienced EMDR before and want to continue your EMDR journey, check out the EMDR Doctor Membership page for monthly, low cost opportunities to continue EMDR therapy.  Contact and Feedback: If you’ve been affected by trauma, or if you want to discuss how EMDR can help you heal from past wounds, get in touch with Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au  or via email [email protected] Appointments for consultation or supervision, with Dr. Lloyd, can be made via Halaxy. Remember, healing from trauma is a journey — you don’t have to do it alone.  Subscribe & Stay Connected: • Be sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode. Each week, we dive into the powerful ways EMDR therapy can help you heal, grow, and reclaim your life. If you’ve found today’s episode helpful, share it with someone who could benefit from this information. • See me in person over on my YouTube channel — it’s a great way to connect face-to-face, learn more about EMDR, and get a sense of how we might work together in therapy.   Join me, Dr. Caroline Lloyd, as we unpack trauma, discover the science of EMDR, and explore how EMDR can help recovery and resilience.