I did it by going into 12 step support groups where the other people are suffering too and will listen to you like caring friends. The groups that I attended did not allow "cross talk" (working on some other member's issues during the meeting) so it is pretty safe from criticism and and attacks. What I found in sharing meetings is that, even if I don't have the courage to say something, another person will be somehow indirectly telling my story as they tell theirs so it was both educational and relieving to see that I am not the only person with this particular problem. I also found that meetings are way more beneficial than one on one therapy where the therapist is either IGNORANT or ABUSIVE. There is enormous encouragement and empathy in a sharing meeting.
jim