Shame, Anxiety & Identity Therapy

Shame and anxiety often shape how we see ourselves and how we show up in relationships. Over time, they can disconnect you from your sense of worth, safety, and identity.

Therapy offers a supportive space to understand these patterns with compassion rather than judgment.

How Shame and Anxiety Develop

Shame often forms early, especially in environments where emotions were misunderstood, dismissed, or punished. Anxiety frequently develops as a protective response—helping you stay alert, avoid rejection, or maintain control.

These patterns are not flaws. They are intelligent survival strategies that once helped you cope.

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Common Signs of Shame and Anxiety

You may struggle with:

  • Harsh self-criticism or feeling “not enough”

  • Persistent worry, fear, or overthinking

  • People-pleasing or perfectionism

  • Difficulty trusting yourself or others

  • Feeling disconnected from your identity or values

Therapy helps slow these patterns down so they can be understood and softened.

Identity and the Loss of Self

When shame and anxiety dominate, your authentic Self can feel hidden or fragmented. You may feel unsure of who you really are beneath expectations, roles, or coping strategies.

Our work focuses on helping you reconnect with your core sense of self—grounded, compassionate, and whole.

Our Therapeutic Approach

We use Internal Family Systems (IFS) and attachment-based therapy to gently work with parts shaped by fear, self-criticism, and disconnection.

Rather than trying to eliminate anxiety or shame, we help you build a trusting relationship with the parts of you that carry these burdens.

What Healing Looks Like

Over time, clients often experience:

  • Reduced anxiety and emotional overwhelm

  • A softer relationship with their inner critic

  • Increased self-compassion and clarity

  • Stronger boundaries and self-trust

  • A clearer, more grounded sense of identity

Healing happens at a pace that honors your nervous system and lived experience.

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Shame-Informed, Trauma-Sensitive Care

We recognize that shame is often tied to trauma, attachment wounds, or relational injuries. Therapy is structured to prioritize emotional safety, choice, and empowerment.

You are never pushed to relive experiences before you are ready.

Therapy for Shame & Anxiety in Sandy, Utah

If shame or anxiety is shaping how you relate to yourself or others, you don’t have to face it alone.

At Big Valley Therapy, we help you reconnect with your authentic Self and cultivate growth in every valley of life.

Reach out today to begin therapy for shame and anxiety in Sandy, Utah.