Chaucer’s Books will host local author David Bedrick for an in-store book talk and signing of “The Unshaming Way: A Compassionate Guide to Dismantling Shame – Heal from trauma, unlearn self-blame, and reclaim your story.”

Lisa Blair will be joining the author in conversation, 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26 at the bookstore in Loreto Plaza, 3321 State St., Santa Barbara.

Shame affects us all, often in ways we might not expect. Bedrick, an author, mental health expert and professor helps readers understand how shame shows up; and offers a revolutionary, stigma-free model to help people unshame and release its hold on happiness.

Shame is more than feeling guilty, sad or responsible, according to Bedrick.

“It develops when we experience a trauma but can’t access the tools or freedom to express how we feel—or are denied the ability to ask for the care we need,” he said.

“It shows up when we aren’t witnessed, whether by a loved one, our community, our culture, or anyone from whom we need to hear: whatever happened to you, these parts of you that you think are unlovable or wrong — you’re not broken. I see you,” he said.

Bedrick, is a speaker, counselor and attorney. He was an adjunct faculty for the University of Phoenix and the Process Work Institute in the U.S. and Poland.

He is the founder of the Santa Fe Institute for Shame-based Studies, where he offers facilitation training to deepen the skills and awareness of therapists, coaches and healers as well as workshops for individuals to further their personal development.