Why Self-Compassion Feels So Cringey

The Complex Trauma Podcast

If the words “be kind to yourself” make you want to roll your eyes (or run) you’re not alone. For many trauma survivors, self-compassion doesn’t feel good. It feels awkward. Threatening. Even fake.

In this episode, Sarah is joined by trauma therapist Erin Witmer for an honest conversation about what makes self-compassion so hard to access, and why the resistance itself is often a form of protection.

Erin shares her personal and professional journey with softening toward herself, the early life messages that shape people's inner voice, and what it looks like to meet shame and perfectionism with something gentler.

They explore:
→ What self-compassion actually is (and isn’t)
→ Why it can feel so cringey—even in recovery
→ The inner critic’s role in survival
→ Tiny ways to begin practicing self-kindness without forcing it

Looking for a trauma therapist or an EMDR therapist? Learn more about Erin here:

https://www.sarahherstichlcsw.com/erin-witmer-trauma-therapist-horsham-pa

And, be sure to grab the FREE Self-Compassion Myth-Buster PDF here:

https://www.subscribepage.com/self-compassion-myth-buster

Thanks for listening to Reclaim You with Reclaim Therapy!
To learn more about Reclaim Therapy and how to work with a therapist on the team, head to https://www.reclaimtherapy.org.

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Listening to this podcast does not create a therapist-client relationship with the host or any guest. If you are struggling with your mental health, or trauma-related symptoms, please seek the support of a licensed mental health provider in your area.

If you are in the United States and experiencing a crisis or thinking about harming yourself, please call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911 if you are in immediate danger. If you are outside the U.S., please reach out to your local emergency number or crisis hotline available in your country.

The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the opinions of any organizations or institutions. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk.