In this episode of Healing & Shadow Work, Larneka Lavalais, LPC-S (Linkie Love) and Coach Sheronda L. Barksdale explore How to Develop Self-Esteem and Self-Love After Trauma.

Trauma can change the way we see ourselves, impact our confidence, and leave us questioning our worth. Experiences such as childhood wounds, rejection, abandonment, betrayal, unhealthy relationships, and loss can create negative beliefs that follow us long after the experience itself has ended.

During this conversation, Larneka and Sheronda discuss how trauma affects self-esteem and self-worth, how to recognize the inner critic and negative self-talk, and how shadow work can help us confront the parts of ourselves we've learned to hide, judge, or reject. They also explore practical ways to rebuild confidence, establish healthy boundaries, practice self-compassion, forgive yourself, and develop a healthier relationship with yourself.

Self-love is more than self-care routines and positive affirmations. Sometimes self-love means choosing yourself, protecting your peace, setting boundaries, keeping promises to yourself, allowing yourself to rest, and no longer depending on other people to validate your worth.

Healing doesn't require you to forget what happened. It's about recognizing that what happened to you does not determine who you are or what you deserve.

Whether you're healing from childhood trauma, heartbreak, grief, rejection, abandonment, or other difficult life experiences, this episode offers encouragement and practical insight for reconnecting with yourself and rebuilding your sense of worth.

Healing & Shadow Work creates space for honest conversations about trauma, healing, personal growth, self-discovery, and becoming more intentional about how we show up for ourselves and in our relationships.

Your trauma is part of your story, but it does not define your worth. 💜