Self Esteem Therapists in Smiths Falls, ON
![Photo of Alia W Offman, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4615c83a-b30f-466c-9f9d-4c2f6974b152/2/320x400.png)
The psychotherapy services that Dr. Offman offers are based in Mindfulness Integrated Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (MiCBT). MiCBT offers a practical set of evidence-based techniques derived from mindfulness training together with principles of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to address a broad range of psychological disorders and general stress conditions. Both online and in person sessions are currently available with a one to two week wait for scheduling new clients.
The psychotherapy services that Dr. Offman offers are based in Mindfulness Integrated Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (MiCBT). MiCBT offers a practical set of evidence-based techniques derived from mindfulness training together with principles of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to address a broad range of psychological disorders and general stress conditions. Both online and in person sessions are currently available with a one to two week wait for scheduling new clients.
![Photo of Jen Nadon-Murray - JNM Wellness - Jen Nadon-Murray, MACP, BSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/511840af-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
JNM Wellness - Jen Nadon-Murray
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, BSc, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smiths Falls, ON K7A
At JNM Wellness, we offer compassionate and supportive counselling services to individuals and couples looking to address any of life's many challenges. My own approach is based primarily in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and is always client-directed. I am a firm believer that you are the expert in your own life, and my role is to provide the guidance and support to help you unpack the past, work with the present, and find your way onto your desired path for the future. With a focus on strengths, goal setting, and psychoeducation, I aim to empower my clients to overcome their challenges and achieve their full potential.
At JNM Wellness, we offer compassionate and supportive counselling services to individuals and couples looking to address any of life's many challenges. My own approach is based primarily in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and is always client-directed. I am a firm believer that you are the expert in your own life, and my role is to provide the guidance and support to help you unpack the past, work with the present, and find your way onto your desired path for the future. With a focus on strengths, goal setting, and psychoeducation, I aim to empower my clients to overcome their challenges and achieve their full potential.
![Photo of Marilyn Scott Harris - Marilyn Scott Harris Psychotherapy, RP, ICADC, CCTACP, BST, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53c5dd59-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marilyn Scott Harris Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, ICADC, CCTACP, BST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smiths Falls, ON K7A (Online Only)
Do you want to reach your best potential and experience quality and contentment in your life journey? Then I am the person who will help you achieve that goal. I am a strong believer that everyone can far exceed their personal goals with the support of counselling. Developing curiosity to explore change is key to counselling sessions. My professional career spanning over 25 years, has been spent assisting those who struggle with addiction and mental health concerns including substance abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, stress and low self esteem.
Do you want to reach your best potential and experience quality and contentment in your life journey? Then I am the person who will help you achieve that goal. I am a strong believer that everyone can far exceed their personal goals with the support of counselling. Developing curiosity to explore change is key to counselling sessions. My professional career spanning over 25 years, has been spent assisting those who struggle with addiction and mental health concerns including substance abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, stress and low self esteem.
![Photo of Jessie Burnie, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b0e051e-5b3d-4d50-b0ce-5b9beb9e3e05/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessie Burnie, MSW, RSW, is a registered social worker who provides clinical counselling and psychotherapy services. Jessie specializes in working with children, youth, families, and young adults. Jessie works from an eclectic mix of evidence-based and client-centered therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Dialectic Behaviour Therapy, and she incorporates mindfulness and play-based activities into her sessions. Jessie also brings an attachment lens to much of her work to better understand the complexities of family dynamics, trauma, identify, self-esteem, and our overall mental health.
Jessie Burnie, MSW, RSW, is a registered social worker who provides clinical counselling and psychotherapy services. Jessie specializes in working with children, youth, families, and young adults. Jessie works from an eclectic mix of evidence-based and client-centered therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Dialectic Behaviour Therapy, and she incorporates mindfulness and play-based activities into her sessions. Jessie also brings an attachment lens to much of her work to better understand the complexities of family dynamics, trauma, identify, self-esteem, and our overall mental health.
![Photo of Lisa Marie, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/baafa0cf-a051-4cf0-ace5-d26f51c10095/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Marie
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP
Verified Verified
Smiths Falls, ON K7A (Online Only)
As a psychotherapist, my goal is to create a space that is safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental for you to explore any challenges you may be facing. I aim to build a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients, while working collaboratively to help you reach your goals and needs. Together, we can find strategies and tools that can help increase your ability to cope, heal, and grow. Some of my areas of focus include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, grief, substance use, self-harm, anger, stress management, and relationship issues. Sessions are offered for adolescents (14+), adults, and couples.
As a psychotherapist, my goal is to create a space that is safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental for you to explore any challenges you may be facing. I aim to build a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients, while working collaboratively to help you reach your goals and needs. Together, we can find strategies and tools that can help increase your ability to cope, heal, and grow. Some of my areas of focus include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, grief, substance use, self-harm, anger, stress management, and relationship issues. Sessions are offered for adolescents (14+), adults, and couples.
![Photo of Nicole Sarsons, MA, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d62c91a-cc5d-47cc-bd0b-59293a1a22af/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that we are all capable of making positive changes in our lives. My role as a therapist is to facilitate that process through warmth, understanding, and insight to help you see things in a new way. We can work together to identify meaningful and attainable goals, improve relationships and connection, develop confidence and self-esteem, and lessen feelings of sadness, anger, loneliness and hurt. After all, the more we understand about our experiences, feelings, motivations, and needs, the more we can make deliberate choices about how we want to live.
I believe that we are all capable of making positive changes in our lives. My role as a therapist is to facilitate that process through warmth, understanding, and insight to help you see things in a new way. We can work together to identify meaningful and attainable goals, improve relationships and connection, develop confidence and self-esteem, and lessen feelings of sadness, anger, loneliness and hurt. After all, the more we understand about our experiences, feelings, motivations, and needs, the more we can make deliberate choices about how we want to live.
![Photo of Sharry Yvonne Byrd-Wilson - Winds of Change Psychotherapy, BA, MACP, CCC, CRPO, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d437c1c6-33c2-410e-985e-9ae847ead199/2/320x400.jpeg)
Winds of Change Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP, CCC, CRPO
Verified Verified
Smiths Falls, ON K7A
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes the worst place to be at is in your head! You must decide what you are going to do with this one wild life. I believe that each of us has greatness lying within waiting to be brought forth. I assist individuals experiencing difficult life transitions, such as, but not limited to loss of a loved one, change in health, job loss, divorce, chronic illness, parenthood, empty nest, menopause and retirement. I offer support to those struggling with depression, anxiety, loss of life engagement, emotion regulation, loss of self esteem, confusion, frustration, isolation, loneliness and life imbalance. Empowering people to live!
Sometimes the worst place to be at is in your head! You must decide what you are going to do with this one wild life. I believe that each of us has greatness lying within waiting to be brought forth. I assist individuals experiencing difficult life transitions, such as, but not limited to loss of a loved one, change in health, job loss, divorce, chronic illness, parenthood, empty nest, menopause and retirement. I offer support to those struggling with depression, anxiety, loss of life engagement, emotion regulation, loss of self esteem, confusion, frustration, isolation, loneliness and life imbalance. Empowering people to live!
![Photo of Sean O'Brien, RPQ, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d85053f-e415-4b1b-a95c-2a6088556368/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sean O'Brien
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RPQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smiths Falls, ON K7A
I am accepting new clients from all walks of life. I bring a collaborative, nonjudgmental, relational and client centered approach. While I use a variety of approaches. As much of my focus is with couples counselling, I focus on helping clients to strengthen their bond through emotions focused methods. Additionally, I work with individuals and first responders to help reach their desired goals. In my space you can expect to be met with open discussion, comfort, understanding, and acceptance so that we may tread new and existing paths in the direction of self-awareness and growth.
I am accepting new clients from all walks of life. I bring a collaborative, nonjudgmental, relational and client centered approach. While I use a variety of approaches. As much of my focus is with couples counselling, I focus on helping clients to strengthen their bond through emotions focused methods. Additionally, I work with individuals and first responders to help reach their desired goals. In my space you can expect to be met with open discussion, comfort, understanding, and acceptance so that we may tread new and existing paths in the direction of self-awareness and growth.
![Photo of Michelle Sparling-Bodechon, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25db61c6-ea71-4055-9917-198702677523/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Sparling-Bodechon
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smiths Falls, ON K7A
Preparing for the stresses of the new school year? I am passionate about helping people to find their voice, harness their power, and learn about themselves and their needs to be able to communicate these to others so that they can live the life they want to. My goal is to help children, couples, individuals and First Responders develop skills to overcome anxieties, regulate emotions, manage stress, develop healthy relationships with themselves and others. My role is to support you in a capacity that suits your needs to get to where you want to go.
Preparing for the stresses of the new school year? I am passionate about helping people to find their voice, harness their power, and learn about themselves and their needs to be able to communicate these to others so that they can live the life they want to. My goal is to help children, couples, individuals and First Responders develop skills to overcome anxieties, regulate emotions, manage stress, develop healthy relationships with themselves and others. My role is to support you in a capacity that suits your needs to get to where you want to go.
![Photo of Valerie Gosselin - Evolve Counselling, MA, CRPO, CCPA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c5ea589-e06a-43e8-9426-45e83c0ca390/1/320x400.jpeg)
Evolve Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CRPO, CCPA
Verified Verified
Smiths Falls, ON K7A
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? As your counsellor, my goal is to empower and support you through life's challenges, fostering personal growth and emotional well-being. My therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy and authenticity. I have a genuine interest in helping you work through your challenges and increase your life satisfaction. If you struggle with anger, together, we will explore and identify the primary emotions that trigger your anger and the deeper meaning behind this normal human emotion. Hope to connect soon!
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? As your counsellor, my goal is to empower and support you through life's challenges, fostering personal growth and emotional well-being. My therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy and authenticity. I have a genuine interest in helping you work through your challenges and increase your life satisfaction. If you struggle with anger, together, we will explore and identify the primary emotions that trigger your anger and the deeper meaning behind this normal human emotion. Hope to connect soon!
![Photo of Valerie Gosselin - Valerie Gosselin - Evolve Counselling & Coaching, RP, CRPO, CCPA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10c166a8-d0ea-423f-98f5-299a159a153c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Valerie Gosselin - Evolve Counselling & Coaching
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CRPO, CCPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smiths Falls, ON K7A (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients (Virtual Only). Je parle français. Hi there! Thanks for viewing my profile. Seeking a compassionate counsellor who listens without judgment? I'm here to offer you the support you need. In addition to my ten years of counselling experience and holding a master's degree in Counseling Psychology, my own life experiences have gifted me with a profound empathy for human emotions and experiences. This lived experience enriches my understanding and connection with others.
Accepting New Clients (Virtual Only). Je parle français. Hi there! Thanks for viewing my profile. Seeking a compassionate counsellor who listens without judgment? I'm here to offer you the support you need. In addition to my ten years of counselling experience and holding a master's degree in Counseling Psychology, my own life experiences have gifted me with a profound empathy for human emotions and experiences. This lived experience enriches my understanding and connection with others.
15 Second Videos
Alia W Offman
JNM Wellness - Jen Nadon-Murray
Nicole Sarsons
Sean O'Brien
Michelle Sparling-Bodechon
Valerie Gosselin - Evolve Counselling & Coaching
Joe-Ann Marie Watkins
Briana Krushelnicki - Feminist Therapy
Katie Cassidy
Anik Whyte
Maya Phansalker-Davies
Sarah Sweeney
![Photo of Kelly DeSalvo, BA, MACP, RP (Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5c13c5a-9828-4db0-aeac-6bf06653a489/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly DeSalvo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smiths Falls, ON K7A
Life can sometimes find a way to make us stand still in our tracks. It can be challenging to find our footing and start moving forward again. I use a compassionate, unbiased approach to listen and assist in skill development and learning techniques to help deal with daily stressors, whether big or small, that can restrict our ability to complete everyday tasks or to take on new challenges. It can take a lot of courage to reach out for help. I work to provide a safe space, so you feel confident taking the first step toward your goals.
Life can sometimes find a way to make us stand still in our tracks. It can be challenging to find our footing and start moving forward again. I use a compassionate, unbiased approach to listen and assist in skill development and learning techniques to help deal with daily stressors, whether big or small, that can restrict our ability to complete everyday tasks or to take on new challenges. It can take a lot of courage to reach out for help. I work to provide a safe space, so you feel confident taking the first step toward your goals.
![Photo of Tory Baker-Reed, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aca1f798-e999-42ea-8126-213beb587275/1/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to create effective personalized healing options for each client and work from a foundation of inclusion, compassion and kindness. Offering a range of healing modalities including EMDR, narrative therapy, psychodrama and emotion release work. As a registered social worker/psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) I welcome clients with a wide variety of life experiences, trauma and personal struggles. Please note the quickest way to connect with me, and book a free 15-minute meet and greet session, is to access my website.
I strive to create effective personalized healing options for each client and work from a foundation of inclusion, compassion and kindness. Offering a range of healing modalities including EMDR, narrative therapy, psychodrama and emotion release work. As a registered social worker/psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) I welcome clients with a wide variety of life experiences, trauma and personal struggles. Please note the quickest way to connect with me, and book a free 15-minute meet and greet session, is to access my website.
![Photo of Joe-Ann Marie Watkins, MACP, BScN, RN, DSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eecf0453-1ede-4a7d-961f-109af25aad61/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joe-Ann Marie Watkins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MACP, BScN, RN, DSW
Verified Verified
Smiths Falls, ON K7A
You’re feeling the distance grow between you and your partner. Arguments seem endless, trust is fractured, or maybe the spark just isn’t there anymore. You want to reconnect, but you’re unsure how. That’s where I come in. I specialize in helping couples navigate disconnection, rebuild trust after infidelity, and resolve deep-seated conflicts. Together, we’ll work to restore the love and connection you once had, creating a relationship that’s stronger and more resilient. If you’re ready to fight for your relationship, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
You’re feeling the distance grow between you and your partner. Arguments seem endless, trust is fractured, or maybe the spark just isn’t there anymore. You want to reconnect, but you’re unsure how. That’s where I come in. I specialize in helping couples navigate disconnection, rebuild trust after infidelity, and resolve deep-seated conflicts. Together, we’ll work to restore the love and connection you once had, creating a relationship that’s stronger and more resilient. If you’re ready to fight for your relationship, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
![Photo of Ariana Malekzai, HBA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ff4160b-9ffa-4fd0-b8ae-779e7209941f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ariana Malekzai
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), HBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smiths Falls, ON K7A (Online Only)
Are you battling complex emotions, and struggling with self-awareness and emotional regulation? Do you face issues like anxiety, unresolved trauma, or difficulty in forming meaningful connections? Are you seeking validation, empathy, and a safe environment to explore and express your thoughts and feelings? If the answer to any of these questions is “yes”, you may be someone who is ready to recognize and understand the roots of your emotions and how to manage them effectively. You may also want to live a more fulfilling life through authentic and healthy connections, inner peace, and self-acceptance.
Are you battling complex emotions, and struggling with self-awareness and emotional regulation? Do you face issues like anxiety, unresolved trauma, or difficulty in forming meaningful connections? Are you seeking validation, empathy, and a safe environment to explore and express your thoughts and feelings? If the answer to any of these questions is “yes”, you may be someone who is ready to recognize and understand the roots of your emotions and how to manage them effectively. You may also want to live a more fulfilling life through authentic and healthy connections, inner peace, and self-acceptance.
![Photo of Briana Krushelnicki - Feminist Therapy, BEd, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/931b7092-a2df-46d1-87b3-5cd9bdf62c28/2/320x400.jpeg)
Briana Krushelnicki - Feminist Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, BEd, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smiths Falls, ON K7A (Online Only)
Overwhelmed. Burnt out. Disconnected. You struggle to set and hold healthy boundaries. You feel you have to earn your worth by doing for others. You hold yourself to incredibly high standards and find it difficult to treat yourself with grace and trust. Exploring the therapy process and reaching out for a space where you put your own needs first is incredibly challenging, and I congratulate you. Talk therapy is designed to support you in deepening your relationship with yourself in a safe and non-judgmental environment. The therapy journey will explore your patterns, your values, and your tools for navigating challenging seasons.
Overwhelmed. Burnt out. Disconnected. You struggle to set and hold healthy boundaries. You feel you have to earn your worth by doing for others. You hold yourself to incredibly high standards and find it difficult to treat yourself with grace and trust. Exploring the therapy process and reaching out for a space where you put your own needs first is incredibly challenging, and I congratulate you. Talk therapy is designed to support you in deepening your relationship with yourself in a safe and non-judgmental environment. The therapy journey will explore your patterns, your values, and your tools for navigating challenging seasons.
![Photo of Eric Gilbert, RP, Q, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07b4fea4-a9df-46b6-94e5-65845b8531cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eric Gilbert
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP, Q
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smiths Falls, ON K7A
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who is deeply rooted in the community. I volunteer as a coach and have had over 12 years experience working in Ottawa as a career firefighter. My goal is to be supportive and understanding, helping people grow by increasing self-compassion and challenging themselves to find solutions. I integrate several counselling theories and strategies and tailor my approaches to meet people’s individual needs. I am open to seeing anyone over 18 needing therapy, though with my experiences working as a firefighter I have a keen interest in supporting first responders
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who is deeply rooted in the community. I volunteer as a coach and have had over 12 years experience working in Ottawa as a career firefighter. My goal is to be supportive and understanding, helping people grow by increasing self-compassion and challenging themselves to find solutions. I integrate several counselling theories and strategies and tailor my approaches to meet people’s individual needs. I am open to seeing anyone over 18 needing therapy, though with my experiences working as a firefighter I have a keen interest in supporting first responders
![Photo of Katie Cassidy, RP, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37bd8f89-2342-4a34-9874-2317124e8965/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of your emotions controlling your life? Are you and your partner exhausted of constantly being in conflict and not sure how to get that connection back? I work holistically with individuals and couples who want to learn how and why their emotions are affecting them (or in their relationship), so they can regain control over their lives, feel happier and less stressed!
Are you tired of your emotions controlling your life? Are you and your partner exhausted of constantly being in conflict and not sure how to get that connection back? I work holistically with individuals and couples who want to learn how and why their emotions are affecting them (or in their relationship), so they can regain control over their lives, feel happier and less stressed!
![Photo of Kimberly Blair Kent, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/533f6a4d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Blair Kent
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smiths Falls, ON K7A
Waitlist for new clients
Currently waitlisting clients- When people are anxious, grieving, or struggling in life, it can be hard to know where to turn for help. I work with children, adolescents, adults,and couples to assist in improving their well being and re-establish healthy, happy patterns and lifestyles. I am a Registered Social Worker and have over 25 years experience in various counselling roles. I am passionate about meeting people where they are at and empowering them to be the best versions of themselves.
Currently waitlisting clients- When people are anxious, grieving, or struggling in life, it can be hard to know where to turn for help. I work with children, adolescents, adults,and couples to assist in improving their well being and re-establish healthy, happy patterns and lifestyles. I am a Registered Social Worker and have over 25 years experience in various counselling roles. I am passionate about meeting people where they are at and empowering them to be the best versions of themselves.
![Photo of Julia Valley, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba498af2-42fd-491a-84ff-e9e80aaf915e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Valley
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smiths Falls, ON K7A (Online Only)
The decision to access counselling is a personal one. Whether you've been to a counsellor before, or you are just starting to explore the options, thank you. Not just for reading this - but for taking the time to look into what is available and what may be right for you. People generally come to therapy for a reason, such as a specific event that they would like to discuss, or to work through uncomfortable emotions. Together, we can prioritize goals, explore and work through issues, develop new coping strategies, and create a plan to determine next steps.
The decision to access counselling is a personal one. Whether you've been to a counsellor before, or you are just starting to explore the options, thank you. Not just for reading this - but for taking the time to look into what is available and what may be right for you. People generally come to therapy for a reason, such as a specific event that they would like to discuss, or to work through uncomfortable emotions. Together, we can prioritize goals, explore and work through issues, develop new coping strategies, and create a plan to determine next steps.
See more therapy options for Smiths Falls
Nearby Self Esteem Counsellors Searches for Smiths Falls
- Brockville
- Carleton Place
- Greely
- Kanata
- Kemptville
- Manotick
- Merrickville
- Nepean
- Ottawa
- Perth
- Prescott
- Stittsville
Self Esteem Counsellors
When should a person seek therapy for low self-esteem?
When self-esteem problems begin to disrupt the healthy daily functioning of an individual, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If a person finds that they are not engaging with friends for fear of being judged, not completing work assignments because they don’t think they’re capable, or not finding romantic love because they don’t feel they’re worthy of it, a therapist may be able to help.
What are the signs of low self-esteem?
Low self-esteem is a common issue that can affect a person's mental and emotional well-being. Some common signs of low self-esteem include negative self-talk, perfectionism, social anxiety, difficulty making decisions, an inability to set boundaries, people-pleasing, and others. A lack of belief in oneself or one’s abilities and a feeling of not being worthy or deserving underlie most of these characteristics.
What causes low self-esteem?
Feelings of low self-worth can begin in childhood or adulthood. Being raised by a highly critical parent or growing up feeling constant disapproval can stay with a person well into adulthood. Specific issues in adulthood may also be a cause of low self-esteem. An unhappy relationship, a dysfunctional work or school experience can impact a person’s feelings of self-worth.
How can therapy improve self-esteem?
Therapists can help identify negative thought patterns that keep the client stuck in a loop of destructive self-talk and develop coping skills to change the voice in their head. A therapist can help with goal-setting, so that clients are better able to stay on task and build confidence from successfully completing work they’re proud of. Coaching a client on how to better communicate can improve relationships. These skills can result in someone with low self-esteem feeling empowered and living with less fear.