Unfortunately I was the approachable elder and heard loads of confessions. These ones genuinely believed they had sinned against god and it bothered them. After counsel given either privately or at JC meetings I'd always say not to think about it anymore and not beat themselves up. I never agreed with DFing but did once where the person had basically lied to the whole cong and they were about to find out. He was reinstated soon after!
I've also never told a soul about these confessions, if someone tells me in confidence that's the way it stays.
I hated JC meetings, so glad I'm away from all that nonsense.