Shame & Stigma
Overcoming shame and stigma is essential for mental health, and my therapy helps you build resilience and self-compassion, empowering you to live confidently and authentically.
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Through our work together, you will develop the tools and strategies to overcome shame and stigma, fostering self-compassion and resilience. This journey will empower you to embrace your true self and live confidently and authentically.
What to Expect:
About This Area Of Focus
Shame and stigma are powerful emotions that can deeply impact how you see yourself and interact with the world. They often arise from societal judgments, internalized negative beliefs, and personal experiences of rejection or discrimination. These feelings can lead to a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. My therapy services are designed to address the roots of shame and stigma, providing a safe and supportive environment where you can explore these feelings and work towards healing and self-acceptance.
Understanding Shame and Stigma
Shame is a deeply personal emotion that can make you feel unworthy, flawed, or inadequate. It often stems from internalizing societal or familial messages about who you are supposed to be. Stigma, on the other hand, involves external judgments and discrimination based on aspects of your identity, such as your sexual orientation, gender identity, or lifestyle choices. In therapy, we explore the origins of these feelings, helping you understand how they affect your thoughts, behaviors, and interactions.
Addressing Internalized Shame and Building Self-Compassion
A key component of overcoming shame is addressing the internalized beliefs that contribute to these feelings. My therapy focuses on identifying and challenging negative self-perceptions, fostering a more compassionate and accepting view of yourself. Through techniques such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness practices, we work on reducing self-criticism and building self-compassion. This process involves learning to treat yourself with the kindness and understanding that you would offer to others.
Navigating and Resisting Stigma
Dealing with external stigma requires resilience and assertiveness. In therapy, we develop strategies to navigate and resist societal judgments and discrimination. This includes building confidence in your identity, learning to set boundaries, and finding supportive communities that affirm and celebrate who you are. By strengthening your resilience, you can reduce the impact of stigma on your mental health and well-being.
Long-Term Effects, Benefits, and Expected Results
The long-term effects of therapy for shame and stigma can lead to profound personal growth and improved mental health. You can expect to see increased self-esteem, reduced feelings of shame, and a stronger sense of self-worth. Clients often report feeling more empowered to live authentically, with greater resilience against societal pressures and judgments. By addressing these core issues, therapy can lead to a more fulfilling and confident life.
My Approach
My approach to therapy for shame and stigma is deeply empathetic and client-centered. With extensive experience and training in addressing these issues, I understand the unique challenges you face. My therapy is rooted in affirmative principles, meaning I actively support and validate your experiences. I help you embrace your strengths and navigate your challenges with confidence. By integrating my professional expertise with a compassionate understanding of shame and stigma, I provide therapy that is both effective and affirming.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some common questions to help you understand more about my practice and what to expect from our sessions. If you have any other questions, please feel free to reach out!
I am licensed to practice therapy in both New York and New Jersey. This allows me to provide telehealth services to clients located in either state, ensuring that you receive the support you need regardless of your location within these areas.
I do not accept insurance directly. However, if you have out-of-network benefits, you may be able to get reimbursed for a percentage of the session cost after meeting your deductible. You would pay the full fee at each session, and I can provide you with a superbill to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. Please check with your insurance provider for specific details about your coverage and out-of-network benefits.
During your first therapy session, we will focus on getting to know each other and understanding your goals for therapy. I will ask about your background, current challenges, and what you hope to achieve through our work together. This initial session is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you might have about the therapy process. The goal is to create a comfortable, safe space where you feel heard and understood.
The length of therapy varies depending on your individual needs and goals. Some clients find significant relief and progress in a few months, while others may benefit from longer-term therapy. During our sessions, we will regularly review your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. The goal is to ensure that you are moving towards your desired outcomes at a pace that feels right for you.
It’s completely normal to feel hesitant about discussing certain topics, especially in the beginning. My approach is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can talk about whatever you feel comfortable with at your own pace. Over time, as trust builds, many clients find it easier to open up about more difficult issues. Your comfort and readiness are always the priority, and we will go at a pace that feels right for you.
Progress in therapy can be measured in various ways, such as improvements in mood, changes in behavior, better coping strategies, and enhanced relationships. We will set specific goals at the beginning of our work together and regularly review them to track your progress. You might notice positive changes in how you feel, think, and interact with others. Open communication about your experiences and feelings during therapy will also help ensure that we are on the right track.