Founder & Clinical Director Finding Peace Consulting Yuma, AZ, United States
Abstract Purpose This workshop introduces an attachment-based framework for understanding and treating shame and dissociation in clients with complex trauma histories. Grounded in relational neuroscience and developmental theory, the presentation integrates clinical strategies for identifying attachment wounds and restoring emotional regulation in the presence of chronic shame responses.
Designed for clinicians working with clients experiencing complex trauma, dissociative symptoms, emotional dysregulation, or chronic relational distress. Particularly useful for therapists in private practice, trauma-informed organizations, and outpatient or community mental health settings.
Methods & Main Points The workshop is based on the “Finding Peace Framework,” which identifies six core attachment wounds (Abandonment, Rejection, Betrayal, Neglect, Abuse, and Loss) and their corresponding negative core beliefs (e.g., “I’m unlovable,” “I’m unsafe,” “I’m not enough”). These beliefs often underlie dissociative symptoms and relational shutdowns.
The session explores the Shadows of Shame—a clinical model describing how shame manifests in six emotional “shadows” (fear, control, perfectionism, isolation, resentment, and self-loathing). These shadows often drive maladaptive behaviors and inhibit therapeutic progress if left unaddressed.
Using case vignettes, audience reflection, and guided exercises, participants will learn how to help clients: Name and track attachment wounds as they emerge somatically or cognitively Identify internalized shame patterns that drive dissociation or relational withdrawal Practice simple co-regulation and grounding strategies that promote integration and narrative repair Conclusions & Impact By the end of the session, clinicians will leave with a deeper understanding of how shame and attachment trauma interact to produce symptoms of dissociation, relational fragmentation, and emotional numbing. Participants will gain at least three evidence-supported interventions they can integrate immediately into their clinical work with trauma-impacted clients. The model emphasizes compassion, clinician self-awareness, and non-pathologizing approaches to chronic emotional wounds.
This workshop emphasizes experiential engagement, trauma-sensitive pacing, and practical tools that align with ISSTD’s mission of advancing clinical excellence in the treatment of complex trauma and dissociation.
Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of this session participants will be able to:
Identify and describe the six core attachment wounds (abandonment, rejection, betrayal, neglect, abuse, and loss)
Categorize six distinct behavioral and affective “Shadows of Shame” (control, perfectionism, isolation, fear, resentment, and self-loathing) in trauma-impacted clients
Apply at least two attachment-informed interventions (such as guided self-reflection or core belief tracking) to help clients increase emotional regulation and reduce shame-driven dissociation during therapy sessions
Demonstrate use of a simple co-regulation or grounding technique designed to support clients in reestablishing emotional safety and present-moment awareness following shame or attachment activation
Analyze a trauma case vignette using the “Finding Peace Framework” to identify attachment wounds, negative core beliefs, shame patterns, and opportunities for clinical intervention
