Working with Self-Criticism and Shame in Practice

NEXT TRAINING: SEPTEMBER 2026

Self-criticism shows up regularly in therapeutic work. It can appear in how someone speaks about themselves, in the pressure they place on their own behaviour, or in the way they step back when something important comes up. For many, this pattern is familiar and automatic.

When it happens in a session, something changes in how the client is there. They might speak more quietly, look down, apologise, or move the conversation onto a safer topic. The therapist can sense the change and notice that it becomes harder to stay with what was emerging. Insight or reassurance usually makes little difference in that moment.

Self-criticism, shame, and the pulling back from expression all develop in relationship. They show up in the body and in the contact between people, and shape what becomes possible in practice. This training focuses on that territory.

Often you don’t see it at all: shame is what clients keep hidden, buried. Even when you do, reassurance doesn’t work or bring about change. You offer it and feel it slide off, or the client agrees while the shame goes on consuming them under the surface.

Then there is what happens in you: the urge to fix, or to move the session along, often before you have noticed you are doing it.

Other times you hold back, wary that going closer will expose them further, or overwhelm them.

Harder to admit: that you can feel helpless, or that, without realising it, you give your most self-critical clients less warmth.

This course is designed as a focused, time-limited training with a clear structure and consistent group of participants. The six live meetings and four peer practice and study meetings build on one another, and the continuity supports a steady learning environment.

To join the training, please select one of the payment options provided. Your place is confirmed once payment is made.

If cost is the only barrier, please get in touch.