050: How to Break the ADHD Shame Cycle with Self-Compassion: a conversation with Laura Sgro, LCSW

From Stuck to Started: Executive Function & ADHD Coaching to Take Action

If you’ve ever felt guilty for setting boundaries, said “yes” when you really meant “no,” or replayed past mistakes on a loop—you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m joined by therapist Laura Sgro, LCSW for an honest conversation about shame, guilt, and people-pleasing, especially for adults with ADHD. We talk about why these patterns show up and how to practice self-compassion, especially when shame, guilt, and “shoulds” are popping up.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The difference between guilt and shame
• Why people-pleasing can feel like safety for ADHD brains
• How shame, guilt, and self-criticism keep you stuck in cycles of burnout and overwhelm
• How to practice self-compassion in real, actionable ways
• Small mindset shifts that can help you build self-trust and set healthy boundaries

About the guest

Laura Sgro, LCSW is a licensed therapist and speaker dedicated to making mental health education accessible and engaging. With years of clinical experience informing her work, she translates complex topics like stress and anxiety, the nervous system, and trauma into practical, relatable insights folks can actually use in everyday life. Especially passionate about supporting neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ communities, Laura brings an inclusive, down-to-earth style to sessions, panels, and stages. Whether she’s teaching tools to regulate stress, sharing strategies to build confidence, or exploring ways to break free from dysfunctional patterns, her mission remains the same: to help people feel more connected — to themselves, to others, and to what truly matters.

Connect with Laura:

Website: www.laurasgrolcsw.com

IG: @laurasgrolcsw

Get Laura’s FREE Reroute Your Thoughts PDF guide to decrease negative thinking: https://laura-sgro-lcsw.myflodesk.com/reroute-your-thoughts

About the host Sarah Lovell:

Sarah is an executive function and ADHD coach who helps college students, professionals, and perfectionists get unstuck and take action in a way that works with their brains. With 12 years of coaching experience and a background in social work, she combines practical tools with compassionate support so her clients can stop burning out, start making progress, and feel good taking action.

Resources Mentioned:

• Sign up for the FREE ADHD Action Plan Private Podcast

Connect with Sarah Lovell:

• Website: Executive Functioning First
• Instagram: @executivefunctioningfirst

Music by: AudioCoffee, Inspirational Background