Overcoming Shame And Family Secrets

"To live with shame is to feel alienated and defeated, never quite good enough to belong....Shame is without parallel a sickness of the soul." - Psychologist Gershen Kaufman

Family secrets like abuse or childhood trauma can cripple your spirit with feelings of shame, worthlessness, and mistrust or others. They can can leave you paralyzed and hinder close relationships.

You cannot change the past, but counseling can help you heal. Counselors give the support and courage you need to identify the painful issue, express grief or anger, and learn how to nurture and affirm your self-worth.

You can reclaim self-respect and dignity. You can restore the essential inner peace that allows you to grow and share your life more fully with those you love. You can learn to celebrate life again!

Have you ever thought the following?

• There's something I cannot talk about to anyone
• My world would crumble if others knew this
• We pretend it did not happen in our family
• Someone else would be too hurt if this came out
• I have to hide may anger about this experience
• I am afraid my children are being affected by this secret

If you identify with any of these concerns, consider talking to a counselor at one of our offices. Our confidential support can give you courage to sort out feelings, issues and choices.