“Because true belonging only happens when we present our authentic, imperfect selves to the world, our sense of belonging can never be greater than our level of self-acceptance.” -Brené Brown, PhD, LMSW

“Because true belonging only happens when we present our authentic, imperfect selves to the world, our sense of belonging can never be greater than our level of self-acceptance.” -Brené Brown, PhD, LMSW

Shame Resilience Theory (SRT)

Emily is a certified provider of Dr. Brené Brown’s work.

Shame Resilience Theory creator, Brené Brown, defines shame as, “the intensely painful feeling or experience of believing we are flawed and therefore unworthy of love and belonging.” The number one feeling contributing to disconnection is shame, the most toxic of human emotions. It is most associated with depression, anxiety, grief, eating disorders, addiction and violence.

Common shame triggers include: appearance, body image, money, work, family, parenthood, addiction, mental and physical health, sexuality, aging, trauma survival, religion, and labels/stereotypes

With only the extreme exception, all human beings experience shame, some more than others. Shame Resilience Theory identifies common, self-defeating strategies many individuals employ to avoid feeling the painful emotions that accompany shame.

The goal of shame resilience is to help individuals suffering from this toxic emotion learn to employ healthy coping practices in an effort to reconnect with self and others.

Core courage practices include:

1.) Asking for help

2.) Speaking your truth

3.) Owning your story

4.) Setting boundaries

5.) Reaching out for support

Shame thrives in silence, secrecy and judgment. That’s why speaking shame openly to trusted individuals allows us to access the antidotes of empathy and compassion.

By recognizing the internal and external factors that lead to feelings of shame, and safely disclosing them to others, we begin to feel connection, power, freedom, and a true sense of belonging.