Why do people overshop/overspend?

• Grief and loss (to fill a void)
• Anger/Feeling Life is Unfair (to get back/make life right)
• Depression (to get a lift)
• Anxiety/Stress (to comfort or soothe)
• Acceptance/Competition (to fit in)
• Power/Control (to feel empowered or in control)
• Boredom/Excitement (to live on the edge)
• Shame/Low Self-esteem (to distract from feelings of worthlessness)
• Entitlement/Reward (to compensate for overgiving or sacrifice)
• Rebellion/Initiation (to break into one's own identity)

Consequences of overshopping/overspending:

• Loss of time
• Loss of space
• Loss of relationships
• Loss of health
• Loss of self-esteem
• Embarrassment of others
• Loss of focus
• Loss of reputation
• Loss of property
• Other legal issues
• Loss of finances

Help for overshopping/overspending:

• Read books
• Counseling
• Medications
• Support groups
• Avoid friends who are shoppers
• Enlist family/friends' help
• Avoid places where one might shop/spend
• Find new hobbies
• Educate self on health hazards/negative consequences
• Watch educational TV shows on this or related topics

The Program

The Shulman Center program has been continually evolving and fine-tuning from its earliest successful results. Typically, 90% of our clients enroll in and successfully complete the basic program structure:

• 10 one hour-long sessions with Mr. Shulman in person or by phone within a 90 day period
• For one of these 10 sessions, it is highly recommended that a family member or friend attend a "joint session"
• A 30-day follow-up session with Mr. Shulman in person or by phone
• Reading and working from one or more of Mr. Shulman's books or books by other recommended therapists
• Participation in either a local and/or online support group (Mr. Shulman created and has moderated a confidential online group for recovering theft addicts since 2000).

Note: Participation in the Shulman Center program includes any and all letters for court and/or employment issues at no extra charge