In the kind of psychotherapy I practice called AEDP, we prioritize a focus on what feels good and right. That effort includes helping people deepen the experience of being proud of themselves. Pride in the self is considered a healing emotion.

The kind of pride that I am talking about here is not a false pride, like hubris or conceit, which is born from shame and insecurity. I am talking about a true pride that exists alongside empathy, compassion, and connection. False pride would be considered ...