Shame and Self-Stigma: Strategies for Change, with Dr. Jason Luoma

Shame and self-stigma are particularly common--and harmful--among people with addictions. In previous podcast episodes, we've discussed how there may be useful forms of shame, but psychotherapy research has also shown that the wrong sort of shame can also inhibit growth and recovery. This episode of Flourishing After Addiction delves into practical strategies for addressing shame, featuring insights from Jason Luoma, Ph.D., a renowned psychologist in this area.

Jason is an expert in the scientific study of shame, self-criticism, stigma, and the interpersonal functions of emotion in addiction. He has done crucial research on those topics in the context of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) since 2002, and as a clinician and leading trainer, he is an expert in strategies for transforming shame.

In our discussion, Jason explains the process of change, emphasizing the treatment of shame as a continuous learning process. The goal is not to eradicate shame, but to recognize and manage it; looking at shame, rather than living out of it. We can also use our pain as a signpost for meaning and purpose, aligning with personal values to guide us through the challenges of shame.

This conversation also highlights an innovative approach to social enterprise in mental health. Jason, as co-founder of the Portland Psychotherapy Clinic, Research, & Training Center, shares insights into his groundbreaking clinic that integrates scientific research funding with expanded treatment for mental health treatment.

Based in Portland, Oregon, Dr.Jason Luoma is a researcher, entrepreneur, clinical psychologist, and psychotherapy trainer. Since 2002, Dr.Luoma has been deeply involved in researching shame, self-criticism, stigma, and the interpersonal functions of emotion, especially in addiction, including the first randomized trial of an intervention focused on helping people with shame in addiction. He co-founded the Portland Psychotherapy Clinic, Research, & Training Center, a unique model combining therapy and research funding. As an author of key books on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and a leader in the field, Dr. Luoma also contributes through a popular blog for therapists and has held significant roles in the Association for Contextual Behavioral Science.

In this episode:
-Jason’s articles and books
- Prior episode with Owen Flanagan on shame
- Slow and steady wins the race: a randomized clinical trial of acceptance and commitment therapy targeting shame in substance use disorders.
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Group Therapy Manual for Self-Stigma and Shame in Substance Use Disorder (which contains the “Feared Eulogy” exercise)
-An introduction to loving kindness meditation from Sharon Salzberg
-An investigation of stigma in individuals receiving treatment for substance abuse, Addictive Behaviors 32 (2007) 1331–1346.

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