Bret Lyon, PhD, SEP, a pioneering force in somatic psychotherapy and co-founder of the Center for Healing Shame, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2025, in Oakland, California, at the age of 82.

Bret devoted over 50 years to teaching and developing somatic and emotional mindfulness practices. Alongside his wife and collaborator, Sheila Rubin, MA, LMFT, RDT/BCT, he co-created the Healing Shame – Lyon/Rubin Method, a groundbreaking approach that reframed shame not as a pathology but as a vital human emotion that, when understood and integrated, can foster connection and healing. Their work has been instrumental in training thousands of therapists worldwide, offering workshops, online courses, and professional development programs through their organization, the Center for Healing Shame.

In 2023, Bret and Sheila co-authored Embracing Shame: How to Stop Resisting Shame and Turn It into a Powerful Ally, a widely acclaimed book that brought their teachings to a broader audience. Together, they also created the audio series Healing Shame: How to Work with This Mysterious Emotion and Transform It into an Ally, which deepened access to the teachings. Their compassionate, body-based approach has helped countless individuals transform internalized shame into self-acceptance and resilience.

Bret held a doctorate from the Yale School of Drama and a PhD in Psychology, and he taught at institutions including Tufts University,  Pomona College, and the Academy of Dramatic Arts. Before meeting Sheila, he developed the Bret Lyon Personal Power Training, focused on helping individuals embody confidence and authentic presence.

Bret's contributions extended beyond his clinical work. He was a respected voice in the therapy/somatic psychotherapy community, regularly contributing to journals and conferences, including those hosted by the United States Association for Body Psychotherapy (USABP). His recent article in Psychology Today, "We Don't Have to Be Ashamed of Aging," exemplified his commitment to addressing shame across the human lifespan.

Bret's warmth, insight, and dedication to healing left an indelible mark on the field of body psychotherapy. His legacy continues through the ongoing work of the Center for Healing Shame and the many practitioners he mentored.

A memorial service was held on February 2, 2025, at Sunset View Mortuary in El Cerrito, California. Bret is survived by his beloved wife, Sheila Rubin, , and the extended family community of students, colleagues, and clients who carry forward his mission of transforming shame into a source of strength and connection.