Photo of James Lacroce, PhD, Psychologist
James Lacroce
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
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.
(415) 938-5245 View (415) 938-5245
Photo of Paul Carter - Paul Carter - Anxiety, ADHD, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Paul Carter - Anxiety, ADHD
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
My teenage clients report that I have greatly helped in reducing depression and anxiety by providing a non-judgmental space where they can explore communication challenges, self-esteem issues and work on difficulties that create a challenge in their day-to-day life. I work from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy framework, which can help teens reframe negativity, develop long-term coping skills, and be more fully present in their lives. Clients can recognize that their thoughts and emotions do not have to get in the way of taking action toward meeting their goals and making meaningful connections.
My teenage clients report that I have greatly helped in reducing depression and anxiety by providing a non-judgmental space where they can explore communication challenges, self-esteem issues and work on difficulties that create a challenge in their day-to-day life. I work from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy framework, which can help teens reframe negativity, develop long-term coping skills, and be more fully present in their lives. Clients can recognize that their thoughts and emotions do not have to get in the way of taking action toward meeting their goals and making meaningful connections.
(310) 620-1428 View (310) 620-1428
Photo of Venessa Ramirez, BA, MSW, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Venessa Ramirez
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome. Our agency offers affordable, low-cost, telehealth therapy, exclusively in California. I provide supportive and restorative therapy for those impacted by grief and loss, stress, anxiety, depression, fear of the future or unknown, as well as sadness, regret, guilt, and/or shame. I also support individuals who want to work on their own personal growth including self-esteem, self-confidence, identity appreciation, life choices, and life transitions.
Hello and Welcome. Our agency offers affordable, low-cost, telehealth therapy, exclusively in California. I provide supportive and restorative therapy for those impacted by grief and loss, stress, anxiety, depression, fear of the future or unknown, as well as sadness, regret, guilt, and/or shame. I also support individuals who want to work on their own personal growth including self-esteem, self-confidence, identity appreciation, life choices, and life transitions.
(951) 567-7939 View (951) 567-7939
Photo of Hannah Grant, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Hannah Grant
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem. Whether you or your child are having difficulties integrating socially, struggling with emotional regulation issues, or showing signs of withdrawal and isolation, I'm here to help. I am also passionate about working with individuals navigating cultural challenges, including racial identity and immigrant & acculturation experiences.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem. Whether you or your child are having difficulties integrating socially, struggling with emotional regulation issues, or showing signs of withdrawal and isolation, I'm here to help. I am also passionate about working with individuals navigating cultural challenges, including racial identity and immigrant & acculturation experiences.
(310) 361-4516 View (310) 361-4516
Barbara Jean A Douglass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94116  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD with 15 years experience working with adults, children and youth. My goal is to help you in your path towards feeling better, and experiencing an improved sense of confidence, self-esteem and functioning in your life. My approach is one of respect, warmth, and attention to the dignity of every person. I utilize a humanistic and person-centered perspective, and maintain a psychodynamic framework for understanding my clients' emotional and therapeutic needs, to help you learn coping skills, and help you explore your options towards recovering a stronger sense of self, identity, spirituality, and balance.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD with 15 years experience working with adults, children and youth. My goal is to help you in your path towards feeling better, and experiencing an improved sense of confidence, self-esteem and functioning in your life. My approach is one of respect, warmth, and attention to the dignity of every person. I utilize a humanistic and person-centered perspective, and maintain a psychodynamic framework for understanding my clients' emotional and therapeutic needs, to help you learn coping skills, and help you explore your options towards recovering a stronger sense of self, identity, spirituality, and balance.
(510) 949-3983 View (510) 949-3983
Photo of Bonni Jane Cardoza, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bonni Jane Cardoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
*Happiness, love, abundance, health and healing!" Counseling, coaching and consulting to manifest your best life because you deserve. All The Things! I have been a licensed marriage and family therapist for over 10 years in California, Hawaii and Washington State. Offering individual, couples, family and group therapy, I have worked with all populations, offering support in all areas from substance abuse therapy to school based behavioral health. My passion is working with the LGBTIA community, women and girls to build self-esteem, cultivate self-empowerment and help bring about the change to manifest your best life.
*Happiness, love, abundance, health and healing!" Counseling, coaching and consulting to manifest your best life because you deserve. All The Things! I have been a licensed marriage and family therapist for over 10 years in California, Hawaii and Washington State. Offering individual, couples, family and group therapy, I have worked with all populations, offering support in all areas from substance abuse therapy to school based behavioral health. My passion is working with the LGBTIA community, women and girls to build self-esteem, cultivate self-empowerment and help bring about the change to manifest your best life.
(808) 460-6382 View (808) 460-6382
Photo of Kathryn Christine Herrera - Kathryn Christine & Calm Connections-Mental Health, LPCC, MS, PPS, Counselor
Kathryn Christine & Calm Connections-Mental Health
Counselor, LPCC, MS, PPS
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94107  (Online Only)
I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS-My passion in life is to provide therapeutic counseling support and interventions for adults, adolescents, and children whom are experiencing difficulty in some area of their life. I have over 17 years of experience treating clients struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, trauma, self esteem, behavior/anger management, eating disorders, weight management and provide family and marriage therapy. I am currently providing tele-health services to provide support to clients throughout California! Please email or call if interested in making an appointment.
I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS-My passion in life is to provide therapeutic counseling support and interventions for adults, adolescents, and children whom are experiencing difficulty in some area of their life. I have over 17 years of experience treating clients struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, trauma, self esteem, behavior/anger management, eating disorders, weight management and provide family and marriage therapy. I am currently providing tele-health services to provide support to clients throughout California! Please email or call if interested in making an appointment.
(760) 705-1801 View (760) 705-1801
Photo of Jamie Bennett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Jamie Bennett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of California with over 8 years of counseling experience. She specializes in treating children, teens, and adults who are suffering from anxiety disorders, depression, life transitions, mood, and personality disorders. She has honed a comprehensive therapeutic style to best support patients’ sustainable life changes. Jamie currently works in an individual capacity with adolescents and adults, identifying their most pervasive symptoms with the intention of liberating them from their emotional confines.
Jamie Bennett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of California with over 8 years of counseling experience. She specializes in treating children, teens, and adults who are suffering from anxiety disorders, depression, life transitions, mood, and personality disorders. She has honed a comprehensive therapeutic style to best support patients’ sustainable life changes. Jamie currently works in an individual capacity with adolescents and adults, identifying their most pervasive symptoms with the intention of liberating them from their emotional confines.
(707) 238-7092 View (707) 238-7092
Photo of Michael Keesey, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Keesey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94105
Feeling stuck, immobilized and unable to change your life? What's holding you back from being your best self? Through a behavioral lens we work together to identify the behaviors and patterns that are holding you back from your goals and systematically relearn healthy patterns and coping mechanisms that will empower you to make the best decisions for yourself, your relationships or your family. I work from a person centered approach creating a safe space where we work together to help determine your needs and goals.
Feeling stuck, immobilized and unable to change your life? What's holding you back from being your best self? Through a behavioral lens we work together to identify the behaviors and patterns that are holding you back from your goals and systematically relearn healthy patterns and coping mechanisms that will empower you to make the best decisions for yourself, your relationships or your family. I work from a person centered approach creating a safe space where we work together to help determine your needs and goals.
(925) 267-6286 View (925) 267-6286
Photo of Kate Hellenga, PhD, Psychologist
Kate Hellenga
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Seeking professional help for yourself, your child or your family takes courage. Not only are we taught that we shouldn't need help or tell strangers our business, but it’s hard to imagine what we’ll be like if we change our old habits. Many of the adults who have made progress working with me have experienced trauma, the impacts of oppressive social biases, or both. They have adapted and survived, but they are not thriving. They may feel stuck, or they feel the need to hide or silence parts of themselves to succeed in relationships. Younger clients may have similar issues along with defiance, withdrawal or other troubling behavior.
Seeking professional help for yourself, your child or your family takes courage. Not only are we taught that we shouldn't need help or tell strangers our business, but it’s hard to imagine what we’ll be like if we change our old habits. Many of the adults who have made progress working with me have experienced trauma, the impacts of oppressive social biases, or both. They have adapted and survived, but they are not thriving. They may feel stuck, or they feel the need to hide or silence parts of themselves to succeed in relationships. Younger clients may have similar issues along with defiance, withdrawal or other troubling behavior.
(628) 333-7534 View (628) 333-7534
Ramandeep Kular
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
I engage with each person as an individual that requires a unique set of skills specifically altered to address your personal sources of distress. I offer a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate and supportive environment so that you can create the change you are seeking. There are times in our lives when we struggle with the most valuable relationships in our lives. It helps to be able to reflect together, problem-solve toward solutions and ways of coping with someone who can remain objective and supportive. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is important in order to grow in therapy.
I engage with each person as an individual that requires a unique set of skills specifically altered to address your personal sources of distress. I offer a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate and supportive environment so that you can create the change you are seeking. There are times in our lives when we struggle with the most valuable relationships in our lives. It helps to be able to reflect together, problem-solve toward solutions and ways of coping with someone who can remain objective and supportive. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is important in order to grow in therapy.
(925) 291-4397 View (925) 291-4397
Photo of Whitney M. Keilman, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Whitney M. Keilman
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist providing therapy to teens and adults residing in California. I believe that every individual is unique and deserving of love, and I feel that this shines through in my work. Seeking therapy is not always easy, and I’m truly honored to be a part of my Patient’s healing and strengthening processes.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist providing therapy to teens and adults residing in California. I believe that every individual is unique and deserving of love, and I feel that this shines through in my work. Seeking therapy is not always easy, and I’m truly honored to be a part of my Patient’s healing and strengthening processes.
(415) 903-8664 View (415) 903-8664
Photo of David A Thomson - David A Thomson, LCSW, LCSW, BCD, CAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David A Thomson, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, CAS
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
Do you feel that your everyday challenges are beginning to overwhelm you? Have you set goals for yourself, but you have not been able to achieve them? The solution is in sight. With skill, professionalism, empathy, and compassion I can help you to achieve your goals and the life that you want. Because you are a unique individual, I will tailor my treatment methods to fit your unique situation and needs. I believe that we all have what it takes to meet and conquer life's many challenges and difficulties.
Do you feel that your everyday challenges are beginning to overwhelm you? Have you set goals for yourself, but you have not been able to achieve them? The solution is in sight. With skill, professionalism, empathy, and compassion I can help you to achieve your goals and the life that you want. Because you are a unique individual, I will tailor my treatment methods to fit your unique situation and needs. I believe that we all have what it takes to meet and conquer life's many challenges and difficulties.
(415) 508-8805 View (415) 508-8805
Photo of Minda Streamer, ACSW
Minda Streamer
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Not Verified Not Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker with three years of experience providing individual and group therapy to a wide variety of people through various settings. I earned my Bachelors in American Indian Studies at UCLA and my Masters in Clinical Social Work through a Trauma Responsive program of study at the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. I am also an enrolled member of the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeño Indians.
I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker with three years of experience providing individual and group therapy to a wide variety of people through various settings. I earned my Bachelors in American Indian Studies at UCLA and my Masters in Clinical Social Work through a Trauma Responsive program of study at the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. I am also an enrolled member of the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeño Indians.
(347) 658-1393 View (347) 658-1393
Photo of Jessie Dineen, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jessie Dineen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
(424) 327-9198 View (424) 327-9198
Photo of Melinda Haynes - Family & Children's Counseling Services, Inc., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Family & Children's Counseling Services, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
When our children's hearts have been broken, our hearts break, too. Parents often struggle with knowing how to care for a hurting child. The child's behaviors can be challenging. A parent's own unhealed wounds get triggered. Then, there's the parenting guilt! It can be overwhelming. We understand and we are here to help.
When our children's hearts have been broken, our hearts break, too. Parents often struggle with knowing how to care for a hurting child. The child's behaviors can be challenging. A parent's own unhealed wounds get triggered. Then, there's the parenting guilt! It can be overwhelming. We understand and we are here to help.
(530) 451-4151 View (530) 451-4151
Photo of Troy Mickle, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Troy Mickle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94133
In my therapeutic practice, I emphasize a secure environment for those seeking therapeutic support. With a foundation in empathy, I establish a professional alliance, enabling clients to express their innermost thoughts and concerns. Leveraging evidence-based modalities, I tailor strategies to each client's unique needs. Through active listening and strategic guidance, I aid clients in achieving clarity and enhancing coping skills. My ultimate goal is to empower individuals and couples to harness their innate resilience, deepen self-awareness, and foster personal growth.
In my therapeutic practice, I emphasize a secure environment for those seeking therapeutic support. With a foundation in empathy, I establish a professional alliance, enabling clients to express their innermost thoughts and concerns. Leveraging evidence-based modalities, I tailor strategies to each client's unique needs. Through active listening and strategic guidance, I aid clients in achieving clarity and enhancing coping skills. My ultimate goal is to empower individuals and couples to harness their innate resilience, deepen self-awareness, and foster personal growth.
(916) 237-8393 View (916) 237-8393
Photo of Patricia Anderson - Bridges Therapy Group of CA, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bridges Therapy Group of CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
(510) 694-7984 View (510) 694-7984
Photo of Bert Faerstein, PhD, Psychologist
Bert Faerstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I treat adults as well as adolescents and children, most frequently through individual therapy. I also work with couples. I work with people with a wide range of problems and especially enjoy working with people experiencing anxiety in relationships or at work . I also enjoy working with people who are unhappy and don't know why, and people who are repeating self-defeating patterns they feel unable to change. Meeting with a well-trained and experienced therapist can be a powerful and effective way of strengthening one's confidence and developing a personal sense of control over one's life.
I treat adults as well as adolescents and children, most frequently through individual therapy. I also work with couples. I work with people with a wide range of problems and especially enjoy working with people experiencing anxiety in relationships or at work . I also enjoy working with people who are unhappy and don't know why, and people who are repeating self-defeating patterns they feel unable to change. Meeting with a well-trained and experienced therapist can be a powerful and effective way of strengthening one's confidence and developing a personal sense of control over one's life.
(415) 787-4616 View (415) 787-4616
Photo of Betsy Russell, MS, JD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Betsy Russell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
My objective is to listen, be present, connect, provide feedback and reflect on what may help your life become more rewarding, less stressed, anxious or stuck, more empowered, or even reinvented! Every person is unique and together we will explore your strengths and the best options that will enhance your well-being. I am non-judgmental and create a friendly environment that provides an opportunity for us to talk about your difficulties and expectations. While doing so, I will be sure to assess that my way of working is appropriate for you and that you feel comfortable working with me.
My objective is to listen, be present, connect, provide feedback and reflect on what may help your life become more rewarding, less stressed, anxious or stuck, more empowered, or even reinvented! Every person is unique and together we will explore your strengths and the best options that will enhance your well-being. I am non-judgmental and create a friendly environment that provides an opportunity for us to talk about your difficulties and expectations. While doing so, I will be sure to assess that my way of working is appropriate for you and that you feel comfortable working with me.
(415) 991-4896 View (415) 991-4896

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.