Episode

62. Shame and Guilt in therapy - an EMDR approach

Podcast
The EMDR Doctor Podcast
Published
Feb 16, 2026
Duration seconds
901
Processing state
not_requested
Canonical source
https://www.emdrdoctor.com.au/podcasts/the-emdr-doctor-podcast/episodes/2149167041
Audio
https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/medias/2149167041.mp3
JSON
/v1/public/podcasts/the-emdr-doctor-podcast-7043696/episodes/62-shame-and-guilt-in-therapy-an-emdr-approach
Markdown
/podcast/the-emdr-doctor-podcast-7043696/62-shame-and-guilt-in-therapy-an-emdr-approach.md

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Summary

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  admin@ther…