Therapists in San Francisco, CA
Nina (Anin) Utigaard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, REAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102 (Online Only)
Taking the first step to get in and talk to a therapist about concerns that are holding you back or creating challenges is not easy. But it can really make a difference. The issues or concerns you have may be preventing you from moving forward or from having fulfilling relationships, career or a satisfying life. Whether it's communication problems, anger, anxiety, or depression, you can make changes. Using verbal and non-verbal therapeutic techniques, in a safe, accepting environment, you can find new ways to face your concerns, and discover your strengths and resources to flourish and grow.
Taking the first step to get in and talk to a therapist about concerns that are holding you back or creating challenges is not easy. But it can really make a difference. The issues or concerns you have may be preventing you from moving forward or from having fulfilling relationships, career or a satisfying life. Whether it's communication problems, anger, anxiety, or depression, you can make changes. Using verbal and non-verbal therapeutic techniques, in a safe, accepting environment, you can find new ways to face your concerns, and discover your strengths and resources to flourish and grow.
Anita Valdez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103 (Online Only)
Life can be difficult; you are not alone. I am here to help. Whether you’re new to therapy or returning, the process of beginning can feel intimidating. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to share your true thoughts and feelings. Together, we’ll navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, stress, and self-esteem. Rooted in compassion and informed by my Catholic faith and church teachings, my approach helps you find peace, resilience, and the courage to move forward with renewed strength.
Life can be difficult; you are not alone. I am here to help. Whether you’re new to therapy or returning, the process of beginning can feel intimidating. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to share your true thoughts and feelings. Together, we’ll navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, stress, and self-esteem. Rooted in compassion and informed by my Catholic faith and church teachings, my approach helps you find peace, resilience, and the courage to move forward with renewed strength.
Edward Carl Vanderclute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I can help you focus on your strengths, many of which you may not have even been aware of, build your self esteem and begin to love yourself again.
Are you down on yourself, beating yourself up with thoughts like "I'm not good enough, I'm a failure, I should work harder than I do or I'll never get what I want out of life?" Do you focus on your flaws rather than your strengths and maybe have even forgotten what your strengths are? I can help you identify, challenge and change those distorted, negative, self defeating ideas to give you a more realistic, compassionate and affirming sense of yourself.
Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I can help you focus on your strengths, many of which you may not have even been aware of, build your self esteem and begin to love yourself again.
Are you down on yourself, beating yourself up with thoughts like "I'm not good enough, I'm a failure, I should work harder than I do or I'll never get what I want out of life?" Do you focus on your flaws rather than your strengths and maybe have even forgotten what your strengths are? I can help you identify, challenge and change those distorted, negative, self defeating ideas to give you a more realistic, compassionate and affirming sense of yourself.
Carmen Mercado
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFTI
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94101 (Online Only)
ALL types of addiction, FAMILY scapegoating, self esteem issues and relational difficulties.
Everyone needs support. Have you been dealing with life with no support from friends or family? Are you dealing with childhood trauma, estrangement and or abandonment from your family of origin? Are you having difficulty attracting and keeping a healthy intimate relationship? Maybe you have been coping all these years without really exploring and understanding your pain. We help clients understand themselves with compassion rather than shame and self judgment. We are sensitive to your values ,needs and are culturally sensitive. I work well with actors struggling through their challenges. Hablo ESPANOL
ALL types of addiction, FAMILY scapegoating, self esteem issues and relational difficulties.
Everyone needs support. Have you been dealing with life with no support from friends or family? Are you dealing with childhood trauma, estrangement and or abandonment from your family of origin? Are you having difficulty attracting and keeping a healthy intimate relationship? Maybe you have been coping all these years without really exploring and understanding your pain. We help clients understand themselves with compassion rather than shame and self judgment. We are sensitive to your values ,needs and are culturally sensitive. I work well with actors struggling through their challenges. Hablo ESPANOL
LGBTpsychologist.com - Dr. Gilbert Chalepas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Waitlist for new clients
As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I understand how anxiety and low self esteem can be unrelenting companions, whispering worst-case scenarios and drowning out the voice of reason. The knots in your stomach, the racing heart, the feeling of impending doom. The weight of sadness can be suffocating, draining your energy and leaving you in a constant state of emotional numbness. Through our sessions, I will help you uncover the roots of your anxiety and sadness, providing you with coping strategies to manage their grip on your life. I want you to know that there is hope beyond this darkness and we will find it together.
As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I understand how anxiety and low self esteem can be unrelenting companions, whispering worst-case scenarios and drowning out the voice of reason. The knots in your stomach, the racing heart, the feeling of impending doom. The weight of sadness can be suffocating, draining your energy and leaving you in a constant state of emotional numbness. Through our sessions, I will help you uncover the roots of your anxiety and sadness, providing you with coping strategies to manage their grip on your life. I want you to know that there is hope beyond this darkness and we will find it together.
Reconnect Relationship - Dr. Gilbert Chalepas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping and guiding seasoned executives better manage chronic stress so they can avoid burnout, due to their grueling schedules and unrelenting corporate pressures. Together, we'll unveil and alter destructive thought patterns and flawed coping mechanisms (i.e. like substance abuse & alcohol). Therapy can also empower you to master your anxieties. Unshakable success on the surface may sometimes conceal self-esteem struggles and impostor syndrome, which we can overcome. My expertise aids in rebuilding confidence, while acknowledging past impact. Through therapy you'll find constructive outlets to reset and thrive.
I specialize in helping and guiding seasoned executives better manage chronic stress so they can avoid burnout, due to their grueling schedules and unrelenting corporate pressures. Together, we'll unveil and alter destructive thought patterns and flawed coping mechanisms (i.e. like substance abuse & alcohol). Therapy can also empower you to master your anxieties. Unshakable success on the surface may sometimes conceal self-esteem struggles and impostor syndrome, which we can overcome. My expertise aids in rebuilding confidence, while acknowledging past impact. Through therapy you'll find constructive outlets to reset and thrive.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety Self Esteem, women issues, marital and premarital, life transitions, spirituality,.
Going through life's journey is like riding a roller coaster full of ups, downs, twists, and turns. On a roller coaster, you often have someone sitting next to you regardless of if you know the person. Think of life the same way. It is challenging and shouldn't be done alone. My passion is to help clients go through life transitions and challenges with more ease by identifying and rediscovering their strengths to develop a healthy lifestyle.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety Self Esteem, women issues, marital and premarital, life transitions, spirituality,.
Going through life's journey is like riding a roller coaster full of ups, downs, twists, and turns. On a roller coaster, you often have someone sitting next to you regardless of if you know the person. Think of life the same way. It is challenging and shouldn't be done alone. My passion is to help clients go through life transitions and challenges with more ease by identifying and rediscovering their strengths to develop a healthy lifestyle.
Be the star of your own life, the author of your own story; by having the courage to face your fears and the imagination to explore your dreams, you are able to embrace your true reality. My approach is insight oriented with the belief that you are the expert in your life. I enter each therapy session with sincerity and compassion. By focusing on your strengths, I enjoy shoring up the foundation to make way for new developments and positive growth. My style is informed by: family systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused and narrative approaches.
Be the star of your own life, the author of your own story; by having the courage to face your fears and the imagination to explore your dreams, you are able to embrace your true reality. My approach is insight oriented with the belief that you are the expert in your life. I enter each therapy session with sincerity and compassion. By focusing on your strengths, I enjoy shoring up the foundation to make way for new developments and positive growth. My style is informed by: family systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused and narrative approaches.
I have years of experience working with people of all ages experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, addictions, and other clinical issues. My style is to create a safe space for clients to explore feelings, address emotional pain, and try new conceptions of themselves. I can also support people who have had experiences with expanded states and wish to integrate them; I have many years of experience in psychedelic research and publications. I am also trained as a level 1 IFS therapist., and am excited about this work.
I have years of experience working with people of all ages experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, addictions, and other clinical issues. My style is to create a safe space for clients to explore feelings, address emotional pain, and try new conceptions of themselves. I can also support people who have had experiences with expanded states and wish to integrate them; I have many years of experience in psychedelic research and publications. I am also trained as a level 1 IFS therapist., and am excited about this work.
My role as a psychologist is to help you navigate through a complex and stressful world. I'm most skilled at addressing issues related to depression and anxiety, relationship challenges, and self-esteem. Additionally, I enjoy helping people manage social and behavioral problems prevent healthy interactions with family, friends, and co-workers. I am experienced in addressing the challenges of both adults and children by drawing upon a few different theoretical perspectives to aid in helping individuals understand themselves, the origin of their problems, and how they can make changes in current life to feel happier.
My role as a psychologist is to help you navigate through a complex and stressful world. I'm most skilled at addressing issues related to depression and anxiety, relationship challenges, and self-esteem. Additionally, I enjoy helping people manage social and behavioral problems prevent healthy interactions with family, friends, and co-workers. I am experienced in addressing the challenges of both adults and children by drawing upon a few different theoretical perspectives to aid in helping individuals understand themselves, the origin of their problems, and how they can make changes in current life to feel happier.
Pamela Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103 (Online Only)
We all experience difficulties in life. Reaching out for help is often the first step in healing. I believe that people are more than the challenges they face and have resiliency that they may not yet realize. I work with individuals and couples who are looking for ways to manage ADHD, anxiety, depression, communication difficulties, grief, relational issues, and struggles with self-esteem. My approach is strength based and non-judgmental. I would be happy to join you during your challenging times and provide the support you are looking for while you discover your strengths.
We all experience difficulties in life. Reaching out for help is often the first step in healing. I believe that people are more than the challenges they face and have resiliency that they may not yet realize. I work with individuals and couples who are looking for ways to manage ADHD, anxiety, depression, communication difficulties, grief, relational issues, and struggles with self-esteem. My approach is strength based and non-judgmental. I would be happy to join you during your challenging times and provide the support you are looking for while you discover your strengths.
15 Second Videos
LGBTpsychologist.com - Dr. Gilbert Chalepas
Reconnect Relationship - Dr. Gilbert Chalepas
Pamela Lewis
Daniel Fernandez
Reconnect Relationship - Dr. Gilbert Chalepas
Therese Apontti
Reconnect Relationship - Dr. Gilbert Chalepas
Ct Wilkes
Jim Torrens
Claudio Zanet
Dr. Douglas Vakoch - Green Psychotherapy, PC
Jessica Dineen
Kelle A Kasner
Alyssa Skoller
Danny Newman
Anjali Shah
Galloway Psychological Services, Inc.
Emily Harris
Nate Anderson
Heather Elizabeth Thomas
Meridian Counseling
Amanda Parker
Lisa R Rix
Meridian Counseling
Diana Vargas
Ambika Raswant
Michael Stephens
Tairou Smith
Paniz Allameh
Julieta Serrato
Jeremy Bohrer
Nancy Le
Liz Michaud
Andrea Najemy: OCD, Infertility, Relationships
Jhoana Sarabia Maldonado
The Lotus Healing Center
Kehiante Mckinley
Cibele Sousa - Anxiety - Trauma - Somatic
Emily Collard
Jennifer Efemena Ozomaro
Diana Chavez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121 (Online Only)
My therapy practice is dedicated to working with people who are feeling stagnate within their lives and looking to break free of a negative mindset, unhealthy patterns of thinking, lack of boundaries, chronic feelings of low self-esteem or not knowing your worth associated with unhappy, unfulfilling relationships. For the past 15 years I have specialized in working with adults and couples dealing with anxiety, depression, anger management, life transitions, domestic violence, sexual abuse, childhood trauma, and relationship problems. I am a culturally sensitive therapist that specializes in an array of modalities.
My therapy practice is dedicated to working with people who are feeling stagnate within their lives and looking to break free of a negative mindset, unhealthy patterns of thinking, lack of boundaries, chronic feelings of low self-esteem or not knowing your worth associated with unhappy, unfulfilling relationships. For the past 15 years I have specialized in working with adults and couples dealing with anxiety, depression, anger management, life transitions, domestic violence, sexual abuse, childhood trauma, and relationship problems. I am a culturally sensitive therapist that specializes in an array of modalities.
Paul Dinh Tran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, or self-esteem issues? Do you feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to navigate life's challenges? Worried that family or friends won't understand or - even worse - invalidate you? Living with these struggles can be incredibly isolating and debilitating. The constant burden of mental health issues can impact your relationships, productivity, and overall quality of life. It's easy to feel stuck and hopeless when you don't have the right tools or support to manage these challenges effectively.
Are you struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, or self-esteem issues? Do you feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to navigate life's challenges? Worried that family or friends won't understand or - even worse - invalidate you? Living with these struggles can be incredibly isolating and debilitating. The constant burden of mental health issues can impact your relationships, productivity, and overall quality of life. It's easy to feel stuck and hopeless when you don't have the right tools or support to manage these challenges effectively.
Marilyn Ramirez-Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103 (Online Only)
I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience in Mental Health Services. I have 22 years experience working in Social Services. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, lgbtq+ related issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder and bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I am here to help you overcome your challenges. Hablo Español!
I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience in Mental Health Services. I have 22 years experience working in Social Services. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, lgbtq+ related issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder and bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I am here to help you overcome your challenges. Hablo Español!
Thank you for taking the time to visit my page. My name is Esther Neissany and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. In college, I heard the quote “be the person you needed when you were young;” this led me to the path of being a licensed marriage and family therapist. I focus on child and adolescent populations who are experiencing depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and challenging family dynamics. I also have experience with crisis intervention for suicidal ideation, homicidal ideation, and self-harming behaviors.
Thank you for taking the time to visit my page. My name is Esther Neissany and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. In college, I heard the quote “be the person you needed when you were young;” this led me to the path of being a licensed marriage and family therapist. I focus on child and adolescent populations who are experiencing depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and challenging family dynamics. I also have experience with crisis intervention for suicidal ideation, homicidal ideation, and self-harming behaviors.
Hi there, I'm Darla Griffith and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 20 years experience working in the areas of anger management, emotional disturbance, stress (including job stress), coping skills, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and self esteem. I provide services in person but also via telehealth which allows for services anywhere in the state of California.
Hi there, I'm Darla Griffith and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 20 years experience working in the areas of anger management, emotional disturbance, stress (including job stress), coping skills, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and self esteem. I provide services in person but also via telehealth which allows for services anywhere in the state of California.
Daniel Fernandez
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in San Diego, California. Life can sometimes feel like a whirlwind of emotions, changes, and challenges. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where adolescents and young adults (12-30 years old) can explore their thoughts and build resilience. With a blend of warmth, empathy, and practical tools, I support clients in managing anxiety, navigating relationships, and finding their unique paths in a complex world. Together, we’ll work to build confidence, cope with stress, and foster self-discovery—so they can thrive both now and in the future.
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in San Diego, California. Life can sometimes feel like a whirlwind of emotions, changes, and challenges. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where adolescents and young adults (12-30 years old) can explore their thoughts and build resilience. With a blend of warmth, empathy, and practical tools, I support clients in managing anxiety, navigating relationships, and finding their unique paths in a complex world. Together, we’ll work to build confidence, cope with stress, and foster self-discovery—so they can thrive both now and in the future.
Ronald Fernandes
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94101 (Online Only)
Individuals seeking therapy can present with a wide range of issues, needs, and goals. Common issues include anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, self-esteem struggles, and coping with life transitions. Their needs revolve around empathy, validation, a safe space to express emotions, and effective coping strategies. Goals often include improved emotional well-being, healthier relationships, personal growth, and enhanced resilience. They seek therapy to gain insight, overcome obstacles, and achieve a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Individuals seeking therapy can present with a wide range of issues, needs, and goals. Common issues include anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, self-esteem struggles, and coping with life transitions. Their needs revolve around empathy, validation, a safe space to express emotions, and effective coping strategies. Goals often include improved emotional well-being, healthier relationships, personal growth, and enhanced resilience. They seek therapy to gain insight, overcome obstacles, and achieve a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Whether you’re a teen or young adult facing anxiety, depression, or self-esteem challenges, life can feel overwhelming. These struggles can leave you feeling disconnected or unsure of how to move forward. Together, we’ll work toward understanding your emotions and building resilience so that you can navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and clarity. I also understand that family dynamics, relationships, and social pressures can weigh heavily, contributing to stress and uncertainty. My goal is to help you make sense of these complex feelings and find a clearer path toward personal growth, balance, and fulfillment.
Whether you’re a teen or young adult facing anxiety, depression, or self-esteem challenges, life can feel overwhelming. These struggles can leave you feeling disconnected or unsure of how to move forward. Together, we’ll work toward understanding your emotions and building resilience so that you can navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and clarity. I also understand that family dynamics, relationships, and social pressures can weigh heavily, contributing to stress and uncertainty. My goal is to help you make sense of these complex feelings and find a clearer path toward personal growth, balance, and fulfillment.
Amy Woh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Amy Woh and I have years of experience working one-on-one with clients of all ages and all walks of life. However, my passion and specialty are in working with young adults who are experiencing existential, identity and self-esteem issues. I also enjoy helping clients address anxiety, depression, stress and PTSD/trauma.
Hello! My name is Amy Woh and I have years of experience working one-on-one with clients of all ages and all walks of life. However, my passion and specialty are in working with young adults who are experiencing existential, identity and self-esteem issues. I also enjoy helping clients address anxiety, depression, stress and PTSD/trauma.
See more therapy options for San Francisco
Self Esteem Therapists
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.