Great topic to explore, Mitch. We all can benefit from getting to know ourselves, ALL the parts of ourselves, intimately. I've been trained to work with PTSD and C-PTSD (I have C-PTSD myself), and people dealing with deep trauma and shame need to be taught some techniques to develop self-compassion before diving into exploring their shadows. Talking to a trusted friend or trying to face things on your own can backfire if one does not understand trauma. For anyone with deep wounds, I believe a professional therapist who is trained to work with PTSD is crucial. But even those who don't have PTSD will find it easier to face their shadow sides if they practice a few self-compassion meditations first. https://self-compassion.org/exercises/exercise-2-self-compassion-break/