Silence, Shame, & Guilt Amongst DV Victims & Survivors

In this workshop, clinical psychologist, applied neuroscientist, and globally renowned expert in traumatic stress, Dr. Kate Truitt, unpacks the complex interplay of silence, shame, and guilt in the lives of domestic violence (DV) victims and survivors.

Rooted in neuroscience and a trauma-informed lens, the session dives into how these deeply felt emotions shape self-perception, influence behavior, and entrench cycles of harm. Through a compassionate and science-driven lens, Dr. Truitt explores the roles of shame and guilt, illustrating how these responses, while adaptive for survival, can also contribute to long-term emotional and psychological pain. She highlights how DV experiences are encoded in the brain, creating patterns that impact identity and emotional regulation, often without conscious awareness. From this foundation, participants will explore ways to empower survivors, helping them build self-compassion and self-awareness to reclaim their voice and rebuild agency by leveraging the brain’s remarkable capacity for change and resilience.

With warmth, insight, and actionable takeaways, Dr. Truitt guides participants toward cultivating compassion, empowerment, and hope as they navigate the path to recovery.