Shame often quietly governs how we behave in relationships and beyond: we become quieter, more cautious, start to show up less, and seemingly diminish our presence. Or, we strive to appear the way others want to see us, hiding our true selves. Alternatively, we conceal a vulnerable and unexpressed part of ourselves behind a self-assured facade.

In this group, we will explore how shame arises in the lived experience of relating to other participants. In the process of group work, it will become possible to notice shame, bear it, and remain in contact. We will find ways to discover greater freedom and openness in how you express yourself in relationships, even when shame is present.

Who might benefit from this group

This group might be for you if:

• you live with a feeling that you are "different" or that something is wrong with you;

• a strong inner critic lives inside you;

• it is difficult to show your true self in contact with others;

• it is hard to speak about your feelings and desires directly;

• it is difficult to assert yourself and claim your space, leaving you feeling constrained;

• it is hard to be spontaneous and alive in contact with others.

What might shift in the process

Over time, participants notice:

• more awareness of how shame influences reactions and relationships;

• it becomes easier to stay in contact during difficult experiences;

• the habit of hiding, closing off, or "disappearing" diminishes;

• there is more self-reliance in communicating with others;

• there is more freedom in how you express yourself;

• more vitality and presence appear in relationships.

Format

The number of participants is limited, pre-registration is required.

Open Online Meeting
July 27 at 6:00 PM (Zoom).
Participation is free. Pre-registration is required.

As part of the meeting:

• a gentle immersion into the theme of shame and how it manifests in relationships with oneself and others;

• a live discussion and an opportunity to ask questions;

• an introduction to the facilitator;

• a chance to learn more about the therapeutic group format.

Online Group
August 3, 10, 17, and 24, 2026
from 6:00 PM to 9:15 PM (Moscow time)

Working in a therapeutic group requires participation in all four meetings.

Facilitator

Alina Lebedeva — existential and group therapist. She works with themes of relationships, shame, and other experiences related to contact with oneself, other people, and one's own life.

She completed her training in the programs "Existential Psychotherapy" (since 2021) and "Group Psychotherapy" (since 2023) at the Institute of Humanistic and Existential Psychotherapy (HEPI).

She practices within the existential approach, welcoming clients in long-term and short-term formats in-person in Riga and online. She facilitates therapeutic groups, creating a warm space to explore feelings, relationships with others, and with oneself.

Participation Conditions

The cost of the entire course is €100 (€25 per single three-hour meeting). Payment in rubles is possible.