Chronic shame is a deeply ingrained emotional experience marked by persistent feelings of unworthiness, self-blame, or internalized failure. It can stem from childhood experiences, trauma, social rejection, or cultural oppression. Unlike guilt, which relates to actions, shame targets a person's sense of identity. At his Boston practice, Dr. Joe Gallego helps individuals recognize and heal from the effects of chronic shame through compassionate, trauma-informed care.
Dr. Joe Gallego is a board-certified psychiatrist who provides expert care to patients struggling with shame-related emotional patterns. With a warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental approach, he helps patients explore the origins of shame, build emotional resilience, and rediscover self-worth.
Dr. Gallego begins with a detailed psychiatric evaluation to understand each patient’s emotional history, developmental experiences, and current symptoms. Chronic shame often coexists with depression, anxiety, trauma, or identity-related stress. Evaluations include space for patients to share their story at their own pace, without judgment.
Treatment plans are designed to support self-compassion, emotional regulation, and the development of a more integrated, resilient self-concept. Dr. Gallego works collaboratively with patients to address shame at both the emotional and behavioral levels.
Therapeutic work focuses on challenging distorted beliefs, healing attachment wounds, and building shame resilience. Dr. Gallego incorporates approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-informed psychotherapy, and narrative techniques to help patients reframe their self-identity.
Many patients with chronic shame have experienced invalidation, bullying, trauma, or systemic marginalization. Dr. Gallego helps patients connect their current feelings with past experiences in a way that fosters insight and healing — not blame. Sessions are paced to protect emotional safety.
When chronic shame is accompanied by depression, anxiety, or mood instability, medication may be considered as part of the treatment plan. Dr. Gallego discusses options openly and collaboratively, ensuring alignment with the patient’s goals and values.
Chronic shame often begins in adolescence, especially for those facing academic pressure, identity confusion, or social rejection. Dr. Gallego offers developmentally appropriate care for teens and young adults, with optional family involvement to strengthen external support.
Shame is often compounded by experiences related to race, gender, sexuality, or neurodiversity. Dr. Gallego provides inclusive care that validates and supports all identities, with a special focus on LGBTQ+ individuals and those recovering from complex trauma.
Dr. Gallego offers in-person psychiatric care in Boston for those working through chronic shame. Face-to-face treatment fosters trust, emotional safety, and steady therapeutic progress. Contact the office for current availability and to begin care.
If you're living with chronic shame, know that you're not alone — and that healing is possible. Dr. Joe Gallego offers expert, compassionate care to help you reclaim your voice, worth, and emotional wellbeing. Reach out today to schedule a confidential consultation.
