Guilt & Shame Counselling

Understanding Guilt & Shame

Guilt and shame are powerful emotions that can shape how we see ourselves and interact with the world. While guilt can be a signal that we've done something that conflicts with our values, shame often leads to deep feelings of unworthiness and self-judgment. Unprocessed guilt and shame can contribute to anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and difficulties in relationships.

Counselling offers a space to explore these emotions, understand their roots, and develop healthier ways to relate to ourselves and others.

Signs You May Benefit from Guilt & Shame Counselling

• Persistent Self-Blame – Feeling responsible for past mistakes, even when they were out of your control.

• Avoidance of Connection – Withdrawing from relationships due to feelings of unworthiness.

• Perfectionism & Fear of Failure – Struggling with unrealistic expectations and harsh self-judgment.

• Negative Self-Image – Internalizing past experiences as proof of personal failure or inadequacy.

• Emotional Numbness or Overwhelm – Feeling stuck in cycles of self-criticism or shutting down emotionally.

How Counselling Can Help

Counselling for guilt and shame focuses on:

• Understanding the Roots of Guilt & Shame – Exploring early experiences and internalized beliefs that contribute to these emotions.

• Reframing Self-Perception – Shifting from self-blame to self-compassion.

• Processing Past Experiences – Using therapeutic techniques to work through unresolved guilt and shame.

• Developing Emotional Resilience – Learning coping strategies to manage and reduce shame-based thinking.

• Self-Compassion & Forgiveness – Cultivating a more compassionate, understanding relationship with yourself.

Our Approach

At Latitude Counselling, we use evidence-based therapies to help individuals heal from guilt and shame, including:

• Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) – Encouraging self-kindness and reducing self-criticism.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Challenging negative thought patterns and self-blame.

• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – Processing traumatic experiences that contribute to shame.

• Narrative Therapy – Helping you rewrite your internalized stories and reclaim your sense of self-worth.

Taking the Next Step

Guilt and shame do not have to define you. With support, it’s possible to heal, grow, and develop a healthier relationship with yourself.

Related Topics & Resources

• Self-Compassion Counselling

• Trauma & Healing Support

• Emotional Regulation Counselling

• Anxiety & Stress Management

If you’re ready to release self-blame and find self-acceptance, reach out today to book a consultation.