Photo of Katie Romley, MEd, LPCC, PPSC, Counselor
Katie Romley
Counselor, MEd, LPCC, PPSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93410
Tell me your story. Have you felt it difficult to be seen for who you actually are? Are you a sensitive soul who has difficulty relating to your parents or partner & being understood or supported? If you're looking for a therapist who gets you & understands what it's like to think differently, artistically, come on by. Safety and support are hugely important to me. I offer therapy in a supportive, non-judgmental style. My style has been described as: warm, personal, REAL, insightful, thought-provoking, relaxed. If need a therapist who is easy to talk with, and helps you strategically think through issues, I might be the right fit.
Tell me your story. Have you felt it difficult to be seen for who you actually are? Are you a sensitive soul who has difficulty relating to your parents or partner & being understood or supported? If you're looking for a therapist who gets you & understands what it's like to think differently, artistically, come on by. Safety and support are hugely important to me. I offer therapy in a supportive, non-judgmental style. My style has been described as: warm, personal, REAL, insightful, thought-provoking, relaxed. If need a therapist who is easy to talk with, and helps you strategically think through issues, I might be the right fit.
(661) 215-8656 View (661) 215-8656
Photo of Hannah Wright, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Hannah Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93403
Common struggles I am familiar working with are anxiety, depression, eating disorders, OCD, trauma, perfectionism, life transitions, self esteem, and school stressors.
I understand that searching for a therapist can be a difficult decision. I believe the therapeutic process should be collaborative. You are the expert in your own life. My goal is to offer a therapeutic space that is collaborative, compassionate, and directive. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and transitions. Whether you’re facing struggles with identity, relationships, career, or mental health I’m here to help you develop coping skills, build resilience, and create a deeper understanding of the different parts of yourself.
Common struggles I am familiar working with are anxiety, depression, eating disorders, OCD, trauma, perfectionism, life transitions, self esteem, and school stressors.
I understand that searching for a therapist can be a difficult decision. I believe the therapeutic process should be collaborative. You are the expert in your own life. My goal is to offer a therapeutic space that is collaborative, compassionate, and directive. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and transitions. Whether you’re facing struggles with identity, relationships, career, or mental health I’m here to help you develop coping skills, build resilience, and create a deeper understanding of the different parts of yourself.
(805) 664-2046 View (805) 664-2046
Photo of Laurel Olvera, PhD, MS, Psychologist
Laurel Olvera
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
With therapy, psychological/neurological assessments for age related neurrocognitive and medical/mental health conditions affecting cognition/behavior: ADHD Autism PTSD anxiety relationships self esteem depression.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California with 23 years of professional work experience. My mission is to deliver life-changing care to teens, adults, families, couples and geriatric individuals who experience a wide array of mental health conditions and current life challenges. Such as: traumatic stress, struggles with feeling scattered and not accomplishing your goals, managing emotions, challenging negative thinking, and reducing stress and anxiety. Today's world can be intense and stressful, and it's taking an unprecedented toll on kids, teens, adults, couples and families.
With therapy, psychological/neurological assessments for age related neurrocognitive and medical/mental health conditions affecting cognition/behavior: ADHD Autism PTSD anxiety relationships self esteem depression.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California with 23 years of professional work experience. My mission is to deliver life-changing care to teens, adults, families, couples and geriatric individuals who experience a wide array of mental health conditions and current life challenges. Such as: traumatic stress, struggles with feeling scattered and not accomplishing your goals, managing emotions, challenging negative thinking, and reducing stress and anxiety. Today's world can be intense and stressful, and it's taking an unprecedented toll on kids, teens, adults, couples and families.
(805) 500-7803 View (805) 500-7803
Photo of Amber Hullibarger - Amber Hullibarger & Associates , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amber Hullibarger & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Welcome! I have a passion for empowering women to feel confident, capable, and connected. While exploring your past and present experiences we will learn how they interfere with who you want to be. I specialize in freeing women from anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, unhealthy relationships, family of origin issues, and difficult life transitions. My approach creates a safe environment to manage fears, negative self-talk, and societal pressures. I will help you shed old beliefs and patterns, discover your own desires and needs, and live the life you want to be living.
Welcome! I have a passion for empowering women to feel confident, capable, and connected. While exploring your past and present experiences we will learn how they interfere with who you want to be. I specialize in freeing women from anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, unhealthy relationships, family of origin issues, and difficult life transitions. My approach creates a safe environment to manage fears, negative self-talk, and societal pressures. I will help you shed old beliefs and patterns, discover your own desires and needs, and live the life you want to be living.
(805) 316-7357 View (805) 316-7357
Photo of Sara Anne Powers, BA, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sara Anne Powers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, BA, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Feeling stuck and unsure why? Therapy could be the key to unlocking your potential! I work with teens and young adults to boost self-understanding and tackle stress head-on. If you're experiencing low motivation, anxiety, depression, attention issues, or difficult childhood experiences, therapy can bring relief and positive change. Therapy is an opportunity to enhance your relationships, build self-esteem, and learn effective coping and communication strategies. Therapy will help you tap into your strengths and help you to find solutions, learn skills and create a brighter, more fulfilling future.
Feeling stuck and unsure why? Therapy could be the key to unlocking your potential! I work with teens and young adults to boost self-understanding and tackle stress head-on. If you're experiencing low motivation, anxiety, depression, attention issues, or difficult childhood experiences, therapy can bring relief and positive change. Therapy is an opportunity to enhance your relationships, build self-esteem, and learn effective coping and communication strategies. Therapy will help you tap into your strengths and help you to find solutions, learn skills and create a brighter, more fulfilling future.
(805) 590-2976 View (805) 590-2976
Photo of Andrew Giron Rodriguez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrew Giron Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Andrew enjoys working with diverse populations and cultural backgrounds. With a client centered focus Andrew looks to build clients self-esteem and promote empowerment. Sessions often focus on building coping skills and strategies to deal with every day issues that can at times diminish the quality of life we have. Andrew has an immense passion for the Psychology field and being able to help those that seek support. Andrew considers it a privilege to work in our Central Coast Community and have the opportunity to give back to the local community through counseling services.
Andrew enjoys working with diverse populations and cultural backgrounds. With a client centered focus Andrew looks to build clients self-esteem and promote empowerment. Sessions often focus on building coping skills and strategies to deal with every day issues that can at times diminish the quality of life we have. Andrew has an immense passion for the Psychology field and being able to help those that seek support. Andrew considers it a privilege to work in our Central Coast Community and have the opportunity to give back to the local community through counseling services.
(805) 973-0084 View (805) 973-0084
Photo of Nicole Juliano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Juliano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
I’m trained in a range of therapy modalities and work with individuals who have experienced trauma, unhealthy relationships, adoption, academic challenges, and life transition issues that are leading to feelings of overwhelm, low motivation, low self esteem, guilt/shame.
Let’s be real, life can be hard. The decision to look for a therapist and seek support is a brave and vulnerable step toward taking much deserved time for yourself. You may have sensed that something needs to shift in your life, and you aren't alone in that. In our work together, we will collaborate to learn to compassionately observe and change dysfunctional physical, mental, and emotional patterns that are keeping us stuck. We will work to help you to feel empowered to consciously create a life on your own terms, shift from self judgement to self compassion, and (most importantly) stop taking shit to yourself.
I’m trained in a range of therapy modalities and work with individuals who have experienced trauma, unhealthy relationships, adoption, academic challenges, and life transition issues that are leading to feelings of overwhelm, low motivation, low self esteem, guilt/shame.
Let’s be real, life can be hard. The decision to look for a therapist and seek support is a brave and vulnerable step toward taking much deserved time for yourself. You may have sensed that something needs to shift in your life, and you aren't alone in that. In our work together, we will collaborate to learn to compassionately observe and change dysfunctional physical, mental, and emotional patterns that are keeping us stuck. We will work to help you to feel empowered to consciously create a life on your own terms, shift from self judgement to self compassion, and (most importantly) stop taking shit to yourself.
(805) 549-4113 View (805) 549-4113
Photo of Dr. Holli Stewart - Dr Holli Stewart  & Associates in Counseling , MS , MA, LMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
(805) 876-9092 View (805) 876-9092
Photo of Sherilyn Young - Elements Counseling Inc., LPCC, MCA, CSC, CCDS, CATIV
Elements Counseling Inc.
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MCA, CSC, CCDS, CATIV
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93403
The mission of Elements Counseling is to offer therapy, psychoeducation and support to individuals, families, and youth. Elements help foster healthy behaviors and choices for those referred by our community partners, the judicial system, veteran affairs and through self-referrals. Elements offers youth, families, and individuals’ best practices and evidence-based treatments for those struggling with relationships, substance abuse, mental health, and personal crisis. Elements provides an array of services for the family and the community.
The mission of Elements Counseling is to offer therapy, psychoeducation and support to individuals, families, and youth. Elements help foster healthy behaviors and choices for those referred by our community partners, the judicial system, veteran affairs and through self-referrals. Elements offers youth, families, and individuals’ best practices and evidence-based treatments for those struggling with relationships, substance abuse, mental health, and personal crisis. Elements provides an array of services for the family and the community.
(805) 918-5016 View (805) 918-5016
Photo of Neil Giannini, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Neil Giannini
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Our developing years can often be filled with confusion, fear, and other big emotions. Whether I’m working with children or the inner child, speaking with someone who can present a different vantage point and offer tools of healing from a non-judgmental and supportive place can be what we need to achieve wholeness. From coping and managing stressors, self-esteem and confidence building, social and relationship concerns, or self-discovery, I'm dedicated to supporting the growth and development of children, teens and young adults.
Our developing years can often be filled with confusion, fear, and other big emotions. Whether I’m working with children or the inner child, speaking with someone who can present a different vantage point and offer tools of healing from a non-judgmental and supportive place can be what we need to achieve wholeness. From coping and managing stressors, self-esteem and confidence building, social and relationship concerns, or self-discovery, I'm dedicated to supporting the growth and development of children, teens and young adults.
(805) 723-2565 View (805) 723-2565
Photo of Bianca Sales, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bianca Sales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93406  (Online Only)
Stress Management, Work Changes, Life Transitions, Divorce, Parenting, Self Esteem issues, Relationship troubles, and Behavior Management.
Bianca is a therapist for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
Stress Management, Work Changes, Life Transitions, Divorce, Parenting, Self Esteem issues, Relationship troubles, and Behavior Management.
Bianca is a therapist for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
(619) 724-4906 View (619) 724-4906
Photo of Crystal Martinez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Crystal Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93402
Waitlist for new clients
There is no time like the present to get help. Maybe you’re looking to learn how to cope with current issues that are stressful or maybe you’re ready to tackle old issues that eat away at you. Old or new, I understand that stress results in depression, anxiety, persistent worry, grief, feeling hopeless and alone, and damaged self-esteem. Mood, thought patterns, relationships, and job performance suffer and can feel dreadful. I am able to help you work through stress and trauma, in order to better manage your life regardless of the root cause. Change is always possible!
There is no time like the present to get help. Maybe you’re looking to learn how to cope with current issues that are stressful or maybe you’re ready to tackle old issues that eat away at you. Old or new, I understand that stress results in depression, anxiety, persistent worry, grief, feeling hopeless and alone, and damaged self-esteem. Mood, thought patterns, relationships, and job performance suffer and can feel dreadful. I am able to help you work through stress and trauma, in order to better manage your life regardless of the root cause. Change is always possible!
(820) 300-4765 View (820) 300-4765
Photo of Rebecca Velasquez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Velasquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Anxious or burned out? Seeking greater life purpose rather than just getting by in life? Time to step into your best, most authentic self! For over 15+ years, Rebecca has treated teens & adult clients with: anxiety, college/life transitions, pre-postpartum issues, addiction recovery, parenting issues, etc. Rebecca is solution-focused & psychodynamic in her approach and utilize various modalities including CBT/DBT tools, mindfulness, and creative body-based approaches. Whether you are a high school/college student, career professional, parent or spouse, being an adult can often feel stressful and challenging. Rebecca can help.
Anxious or burned out? Seeking greater life purpose rather than just getting by in life? Time to step into your best, most authentic self! For over 15+ years, Rebecca has treated teens & adult clients with: anxiety, college/life transitions, pre-postpartum issues, addiction recovery, parenting issues, etc. Rebecca is solution-focused & psychodynamic in her approach and utilize various modalities including CBT/DBT tools, mindfulness, and creative body-based approaches. Whether you are a high school/college student, career professional, parent or spouse, being an adult can often feel stressful and challenging. Rebecca can help.
(805) 272-7898 View (805) 272-7898
Photo of Kelly Wakeland, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Wakeland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Hello! I specialize in serving clients experiencing disordered eating/eating disorders, anxiety, depression, life transitions struggles, and stress looking to make peace with food, their bodies, and themselves. I provide a warm and relatable environment so clients feel safe to explore and process the intricacies of their experiences. While therapy can touch on difficult topics, I make sure we are also acknowledging and celebrating the joy in your life! I utilize a client-centered approach that honors your inherent wisdom as the expert in your life as the mechanism that will lead to lasting change. I'm licensed in CT, VA, and CA.
Hello! I specialize in serving clients experiencing disordered eating/eating disorders, anxiety, depression, life transitions struggles, and stress looking to make peace with food, their bodies, and themselves. I provide a warm and relatable environment so clients feel safe to explore and process the intricacies of their experiences. While therapy can touch on difficult topics, I make sure we are also acknowledging and celebrating the joy in your life! I utilize a client-centered approach that honors your inherent wisdom as the expert in your life as the mechanism that will lead to lasting change. I'm licensed in CT, VA, and CA.
(571) 601-4283 View (571) 601-4283
Photo of Julie Messer, BS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Messer
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Since you found me on this site I would venture to guess something is awry in your life...am I right? Whether you are struggling with relationships, tackling your own personal demons, or just have absolutely no idea why you don't feel like your normal self anymore we can work together to figure it out and discover solutions that work for you.
Since you found me on this site I would venture to guess something is awry in your life...am I right? Whether you are struggling with relationships, tackling your own personal demons, or just have absolutely no idea why you don't feel like your normal self anymore we can work together to figure it out and discover solutions that work for you.
(805) 978-5080 View (805) 978-5080
Photo of Augusta Gordon, LCSW-R, SIFI, RYT 200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Augusta Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, SIFI, RYT 200
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I am taking new clients in California, and focusing on psychedelic prep, integration, and facilitation within psychotherapy both individually and in a group. I can support you in better understanding your symptoms and behaviors, and help you to move through the stages of change. I use a person-centered approach to help clients access their inner-guide and believe that we all carry the answers we need for ourselves.
I am taking new clients in California, and focusing on psychedelic prep, integration, and facilitation within psychotherapy both individually and in a group. I can support you in better understanding your symptoms and behaviors, and help you to move through the stages of change. I use a person-centered approach to help clients access their inner-guide and believe that we all carry the answers we need for ourselves.
(805) 667-0177 View (805) 667-0177
Photo of Cristy Chavez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cristy Chavez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
In life we often face obstacles which cause us painful emotions, feeling disconnected, isolated and confused. The good news is we don’t have to navigate this alone and I would be honored to help guide you. Are you currently experiencing depression, anxiety, an eating disorder, or trauma from an abusive relationship? Or perhaps you are looking for someone who has training and experience with neurodiversity (ADHD and/or Autism). In sessions I use an array of therapeutic techniques to promote a mind/body connection, such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems, and Attachment Based Theory.
In life we often face obstacles which cause us painful emotions, feeling disconnected, isolated and confused. The good news is we don’t have to navigate this alone and I would be honored to help guide you. Are you currently experiencing depression, anxiety, an eating disorder, or trauma from an abusive relationship? Or perhaps you are looking for someone who has training and experience with neurodiversity (ADHD and/or Autism). In sessions I use an array of therapeutic techniques to promote a mind/body connection, such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems, and Attachment Based Theory.
(805) 440-5608 View (805) 440-5608
Photo of Caroline Cerussi, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Caroline Cerussi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Let’s be real, change is hard! But staying stuck in a cycle of pain and overthinking is harder. Are you feeling ready to cut through the noise and get to the heart of the matter? If you're someone who's been analyzing, overthinking, constantly wanting to feel better but struggling to know where to start, I'm here to help. I believe analysis and awareness is an important step, but we can’t always out-think our problems or solely focus on the source of the issue. I'm about action, results, and helping you move forward in a safe space. I'll combine empathy with a push to uncover your blind spots so you can make positive change.
Let’s be real, change is hard! But staying stuck in a cycle of pain and overthinking is harder. Are you feeling ready to cut through the noise and get to the heart of the matter? If you're someone who's been analyzing, overthinking, constantly wanting to feel better but struggling to know where to start, I'm here to help. I believe analysis and awareness is an important step, but we can’t always out-think our problems or solely focus on the source of the issue. I'm about action, results, and helping you move forward in a safe space. I'll combine empathy with a push to uncover your blind spots so you can make positive change.
(805) 723-3076 View (805) 723-3076
Photo of Rebecca Elizabeth Moir-Evans, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rebecca Elizabeth Moir-Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Life can be a challenge at times and finding a comfortable place to discuss it can be difficult. Providing that space of safety and trust is where we will begin your journey towards your most enjoyable life. I really enjoy working with Children, Teens, Couples, Adults, and Families using therapeutic modalities such as: DBT, CBT, EMDR and Gottman couples therapy. Additionally, I am certified in EMDR. Through the use of EMDR, healing is possible from small traumas to Big Traumas. EMDR can alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression and grief, to name a few. Together, we can create a more effective and satisfying life for you.
Life can be a challenge at times and finding a comfortable place to discuss it can be difficult. Providing that space of safety and trust is where we will begin your journey towards your most enjoyable life. I really enjoy working with Children, Teens, Couples, Adults, and Families using therapeutic modalities such as: DBT, CBT, EMDR and Gottman couples therapy. Additionally, I am certified in EMDR. Through the use of EMDR, healing is possible from small traumas to Big Traumas. EMDR can alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression and grief, to name a few. Together, we can create a more effective and satisfying life for you.
(805) 919-8905 View (805) 919-8905
Photo of Beth Belingheri, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Belingheri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405  (Online Only)
Life is stressful and it can feel like it’s too much. Sometimes, we feel stuck, overwhelmed, depressed, anxious or we are having life transitions that seem really difficult. Maybe you are in a couplehood that feels tense, argumentative and disconnected. I work in a partnership with my clients both individuals and couples to improve their lives and mental health. What I offer is a non judgmental space where clients can express concerns, set healthy boundaries, increase coping skills and find realistic solutions to stress, anxiety and depression through gentle guidance.
Life is stressful and it can feel like it’s too much. Sometimes, we feel stuck, overwhelmed, depressed, anxious or we are having life transitions that seem really difficult. Maybe you are in a couplehood that feels tense, argumentative and disconnected. I work in a partnership with my clients both individuals and couples to improve their lives and mental health. What I offer is a non judgmental space where clients can express concerns, set healthy boundaries, increase coping skills and find realistic solutions to stress, anxiety and depression through gentle guidance.
(805) 321-1864 View (805) 321-1864
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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.