Exploring Shame

Shame is a common emotion associated with trauma, disempowerment, mental illness and exclusion. However, many of us struggle to talk about it directly.

Exploring Shame is an evocative collection of 30 photo-based cards created to gently name, unpack and process feelings of shame. Each card helps people recognise the emotion and find a pathway for healing through constructive, safe and respectful conversations.

Topics include addiction, honesty, body, culture, fairness, forgiveness, relationships and hope – providing a range of prompts that address multiple experiences.

Exploring Shame is easy to use and versatile, making it the ideal resource for counsellors, social workers, psychologists, teachers and parents engaging with adults and young people. Perfect for one-on-one therapeutic conversations, in groups and even classrooms.

• 30 laminated, full-colour cards (150mm x 120mm) in a sturdy folio box

BONUS: Free access to the Exploring Shame Digital Toolbox

• Digital version of the cards and a digital booklet full of ideas for using the cards
• Extra support resources including ideas bank, card hacks and blogs

To use the digital toolbox, simply create a customer account. All digital products follow our Digital Usage Policy – see Copyright and Digital Usage for details.

• Family therapy: Are there cards that are particularly relevant to your family? Which card represents something you wish you could talk about?
• Working with people who have caused harm: Are there any cards you feel are particularly relevant to your situation? What do you wish you could change?
• Goal setting/planning: Is there a card that represents something you’d really like to work towards? What small step could you take today?
• Creativity: Choose your favourite image and write down a list of words to describe the image. Now choose an image that makes you feel uncomfortable and do the same. What might help you move through the discomfort towards healing and hope?

For more inspiration, explore our Ideas Bank.