Stronger in the Difficult Places: Heal Your Relationship with Yourself by Untangling Complex Shame

An empowering invitation to leave complex shame behind, forgive yourself, and live free from the burden of secrecy--by a clinical psychologist with an inspiring personal story.

"With the empathy and kindness of a loving best friend, Dr. Zoe Shaw helps us not only address our complex shame but also untangle it so that it no longer binds us."--Elayne Fluker, executive coach and author of Get Over "I Got It"

Do you ever feel like your past is holding you hostage? As if the mistakes you've made, the pain you've endured, or the burdens you carry are too heavy to release?

You're not alone.

In Stronger in the Difficult Places, Dr. Zoe Shaw opens her heart and her expertise to guide you through the healing process. Offering unflinching honesty but compassionate care, Dr. Zoe shares her own journey of breaking free from complex shame. For years, she believed her past defined her--until she realized she had the power to rewrite the narrative. Now she's inviting you to do the same.

With wisdom rooted in psychology, science, and faith, Dr. Zoe helps you untangle the stories shame has written over your life so you can embrace freedom. Through personal reflection and practical tools, you will learn how to

- recognize and name your shame story, understanding how it has shaped your self-worth
- break free from false narratives that keep you playing small and doubting your value
- set healthy emotional and relational boundaries that protect your peace
- forgive yourself and embrace self-compassion without guilt or hesitation
- rewrite your future with strength, resilience, and a sense of unshakable worth

You don't have to live weighed down by your past. Let Dr. Zoe sit with you in your struggles, walk with you through your story, and show you how Stronger in the Difficult Places can be your road map to healing, self-acceptance, and the freedom to live fully as the person you were always meant to be.

Author: Zoe Shaw
Publisher: Waterbrook Press
Published: 09/30/2025
Pages: 256
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.65lbs
Size: 8.10h x 5.20w x 1.00d
ISBN: 9780593601082

About the Author
Dr. Zoe Shaw is a licensed psychotherapist, author, speaker, podcast host, relationships coach, and fitness enthusiast. She is a mom to five. She is passionate about helping women overcome shame and codependency, so they can experience health in their relationships with themselves and others. After fifteen years in traditional psychotherapy practice, Dr. Zoe jumped off the couch and now helps women using a different modality--a mix of virtual therapy, coaching services, and programs--through a lens of psychology, faith, and a dash of feminism.