Guilt is an affective state in which a person experiences conflict at having done something they believe they should not have done. ("I did something wrong.") Shame is a person's inner experience of being not wanted, worthless, rejected or cast out. ("I am wrong.") Many people get guilt and shame confused. With guilt, there is a feeling of responsibility or remorse for an imagined wrongdoing. There is self-judgement - they know society expects something different. Guilt is a "controllable behavior". Shame is how one sees him or herself. It is an "uncontrollable behavior".

So, how do we, as hypnotherapists, help or change feeling of guilt? First, we focus on the behavior, not the person - accept them for who they are and make them aware they are doing the best they can. Second, help them become accountable - accepting responsibility is empowering because it leads to solutions. Third, discover judgments and release them - judgments are often coping mechanisms used to hide behind the problem. Lastly, identify strategies for change - finding ways to "right a wrong". Whether you struggle with guilt or shame, hypnotherapy can help!