Self Esteem Therapists in Sunnyvale, CA

Photo of Iris Cohen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Iris Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
I incorporate an open-minded approach when working with couples, parents and children's relationship issues, low self esteem, anxiety and depression.
My focus is on easing your stress, worries, and challenges that you are facing. Together we will work on finding better ways to communicate at home and at work. I am offering tele-therapy through video and/or phone to all who want to be seen.I enjoy working with couples and individuals. When dealing with negative thoughts, I work on finding more coping thoughts, while using different approaches, such as CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), and family systems. With couples I often use EFT (emotional focus therapy). My therapy style is nurturing and empowering. Your happiness is my first priority!
I incorporate an open-minded approach when working with couples, parents and children's relationship issues, low self esteem, anxiety and depression.
My focus is on easing your stress, worries, and challenges that you are facing. Together we will work on finding better ways to communicate at home and at work. I am offering tele-therapy through video and/or phone to all who want to be seen.I enjoy working with couples and individuals. When dealing with negative thoughts, I work on finding more coping thoughts, while using different approaches, such as CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), and family systems. With couples I often use EFT (emotional focus therapy). My therapy style is nurturing and empowering. Your happiness is my first priority!
(408) 637-5688 View (408) 637-5688
Photo of Carly Compton, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carly Compton
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Carly Compton focuses on eating disorders, body image, self-esteem, and the general connections between physical and mental health. Carly believes that every individual is capable of healing and deserves a unique treatment plan. She is non-judgmental, compassionate, empowering, and supportive. Carly has experience leading support groups, working 1:1 with individuals, and connecting individuals to resources. Carly received her Bachelor’s (B.A.) degree in Elementary Education from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and has years of experience working in school settings as an educator and Mental Health Specialist.
Carly Compton focuses on eating disorders, body image, self-esteem, and the general connections between physical and mental health. Carly believes that every individual is capable of healing and deserves a unique treatment plan. She is non-judgmental, compassionate, empowering, and supportive. Carly has experience leading support groups, working 1:1 with individuals, and connecting individuals to resources. Carly received her Bachelor’s (B.A.) degree in Elementary Education from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and has years of experience working in school settings as an educator and Mental Health Specialist.
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Photo of Ellen Silka, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellen Silka
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94085  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Ellen, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Mind-Body Care. I received my B.A. in Psychology from the University of Richmond in Virginia and my M.A. in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University. I have experience working with anxiety, self- esteem, relationship and communication support, depression, and stress management. My focus of practice is working with individuals and couples. I support individuals and couples by bringing compassion, authenticity, and open-mindedness to create a safe space where you feel heard and understood.
Hello! I am Ellen, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Mind-Body Care. I received my B.A. in Psychology from the University of Richmond in Virginia and my M.A. in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University. I have experience working with anxiety, self- esteem, relationship and communication support, depression, and stress management. My focus of practice is working with individuals and couples. I support individuals and couples by bringing compassion, authenticity, and open-mindedness to create a safe space where you feel heard and understood.
(650) 610-7463 View (650) 610-7463
Photo of Tamara Leite, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tamara Leite
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94085
​My name is Tamara Leite, and I’m a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with older children, teens and adults. I offer a warm environment and approach, while utilizing evidence based practices in my sessions, such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I am truly passionate about working with individuals that are seeking balance, growth, and harmony in their lives and I have a genuine desire to guide them to be their better selves and to thrive.
​My name is Tamara Leite, and I’m a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with older children, teens and adults. I offer a warm environment and approach, while utilizing evidence based practices in my sessions, such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I am truly passionate about working with individuals that are seeking balance, growth, and harmony in their lives and I have a genuine desire to guide them to be their better selves and to thrive.
(408) 409-8614 View (408) 409-8614
Photo of Lucinda Ugarte, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lucinda Ugarte
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients online. I enjoy bringing adaptability, flexibility, and curiosity to therapy sessions, as well as providing a safe, nurturing, and collaborative space for the development of tools to use for a lifetime. I use an integrative approach to therapy, borrowing from a diverse range of interventions and methods to provide a personalized experience for each client based on their needs, styles, and goals. Knowing, accepting, and nurturing ourselves can only be of benefit to finding the stability in the shifts and changes that life brings, as well as managing our mental health and strengthening relationships.
Currently accepting new clients online. I enjoy bringing adaptability, flexibility, and curiosity to therapy sessions, as well as providing a safe, nurturing, and collaborative space for the development of tools to use for a lifetime. I use an integrative approach to therapy, borrowing from a diverse range of interventions and methods to provide a personalized experience for each client based on their needs, styles, and goals. Knowing, accepting, and nurturing ourselves can only be of benefit to finding the stability in the shifts and changes that life brings, as well as managing our mental health and strengthening relationships.
(408) 669-3719 View (408) 669-3719
Photo of Gary Chan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gary Chan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Compassion, science, and healer are three words that describe me as a therapist. I treat therapy as a collaboration where I help you meet your goals. I believe that therapy should be a haven where you can discuss your issues without judgment. I incorporate therapy's art, science, and compassion to tailor my therapeutic style to your individual needs. I have training and experience utilizing multiple treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure and Ritual Prevention, and Written Exposure Therapy.
Compassion, science, and healer are three words that describe me as a therapist. I treat therapy as a collaboration where I help you meet your goals. I believe that therapy should be a haven where you can discuss your issues without judgment. I incorporate therapy's art, science, and compassion to tailor my therapeutic style to your individual needs. I have training and experience utilizing multiple treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure and Ritual Prevention, and Written Exposure Therapy.
(650) 910-6673 View (650) 910-6673
Photo of Laihin Josephine Cheung - Laihin J Cheung, Psychotherapy & Consultation, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laihin J Cheung, Psychotherapy & Consultation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
I will give you the tools and train you the skills so you could use in your daily life to rebuild your confidence and self esteem.
I am a solution focused therapist. You will feel the relief of stresses in life after a few sessions. You would get better understanding of yourself, better coping problem solving skills to rebuild balance in life. My years of clinical experiences have propelled me to believe that most of the emotional and behavioral issues are trauma based that led me to inventing my trauma cleansing technique which is so powerful that it removes your trauma energy and the trauma images in minutes, you feel the difference in your mind body instantly. You are free from the trap of mental suffeinings. Please read the Google comments.
I will give you the tools and train you the skills so you could use in your daily life to rebuild your confidence and self esteem.
I am a solution focused therapist. You will feel the relief of stresses in life after a few sessions. You would get better understanding of yourself, better coping problem solving skills to rebuild balance in life. My years of clinical experiences have propelled me to believe that most of the emotional and behavioral issues are trauma based that led me to inventing my trauma cleansing technique which is so powerful that it removes your trauma energy and the trauma images in minutes, you feel the difference in your mind body instantly. You are free from the trap of mental suffeinings. Please read the Google comments.
(408) 560-3564 View (408) 560-3564
Photo of Lauren Smith Conaway, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Smith Conaway
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94087  (Online Only)
If you're looking for a safe, warm and gentle space to find peace and clarity for yourself or your child, I'd love to partner with you in your healing work. My passion is guiding children, teens and adult women to develop their inner wisdom, to cultivate tools for peace and grounding, and to reconnect with nature. I utilize a holistic approach for your whole being, addressing mind, body and soul. Together we'll develop a healing plan with modalities such as Ecotherapy, CBT, DBT, Art Therapy or Reiki, tailoring treatment to your needs.
If you're looking for a safe, warm and gentle space to find peace and clarity for yourself or your child, I'd love to partner with you in your healing work. My passion is guiding children, teens and adult women to develop their inner wisdom, to cultivate tools for peace and grounding, and to reconnect with nature. I utilize a holistic approach for your whole being, addressing mind, body and soul. Together we'll develop a healing plan with modalities such as Ecotherapy, CBT, DBT, Art Therapy or Reiki, tailoring treatment to your needs.
(831) 661-8466 View (831) 661-8466
Photo of Louis Yeng-lo Lee, AMFT
Louis Yeng-lo Lee
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086  (Online Only)
No one has a perfect childhood. Early stressors, abuse, and neglect can continue to have profound effects on all of us and can manifest as depression, anxiety, anger, and low- self esteem. As we continue through life, enduring pain and distress, we often learn to suppress our emotions and neglect our needs in order to get by. My goal in therapy is to provide a supportive space that belongs to you, in which you may share as much as you are willing and at a pace that you are comfortable with. While working together, I aim to help you undo old ways of being and to help you begin fostering a more compassionate relationship with yourself.
No one has a perfect childhood. Early stressors, abuse, and neglect can continue to have profound effects on all of us and can manifest as depression, anxiety, anger, and low- self esteem. As we continue through life, enduring pain and distress, we often learn to suppress our emotions and neglect our needs in order to get by. My goal in therapy is to provide a supportive space that belongs to you, in which you may share as much as you are willing and at a pace that you are comfortable with. While working together, I aim to help you undo old ways of being and to help you begin fostering a more compassionate relationship with yourself.
(714) 640-6068 View (714) 640-6068
Photo of Francesca Harper, MS, AMFT, APCC, PPSC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Francesca Harper
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC, PPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086  (Online Only)
If you’re seeking support for trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem struggles, or issues with self-worth, please know you don’t have to face them alone. I’m here to walk with you on your path to healing. You’ll have a safe space in counseling to process your experiences openly and to foster healing and growth. Together, we’ll face your challenges by exploring your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to uncover the roots of your concerns. I utilize strength-based treatment approaches like CBT and mindfulness. My role is to support, empower, and guide you each step of the way.
If you’re seeking support for trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem struggles, or issues with self-worth, please know you don’t have to face them alone. I’m here to walk with you on your path to healing. You’ll have a safe space in counseling to process your experiences openly and to foster healing and growth. Together, we’ll face your challenges by exploring your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to uncover the roots of your concerns. I utilize strength-based treatment approaches like CBT and mindfulness. My role is to support, empower, and guide you each step of the way.
(408) 549-8595 View (408) 549-8595
Photo of Luis Cardozo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Luis Cardozo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086  (Online Only)
¡Hola! I'm Luis, a dedicated therapist helping adolescents and men navigate life's challenges. As a Mexican American, I understand how our experiences are shaped by cultural dynamics. My aim is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can uncover your inner strengths. Life's transitions can be tough, leading to low self-esteem and emotional struggles.
¡Hola! I'm Luis, a dedicated therapist helping adolescents and men navigate life's challenges. As a Mexican American, I understand how our experiences are shaped by cultural dynamics. My aim is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can uncover your inner strengths. Life's transitions can be tough, leading to low self-esteem and emotional struggles.
(408) 827-9677 View (408) 827-9677
Photo of Nikisha Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nikisha Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Hi! My name is Nikisha Brown. I am a licensed clinician. I work from a multidimensional approach to support my clients and provide a safe and judgment-free space for individuals to express themselves, feel seen and heard as they navigate life’s transitions and challenges. My Therapeutic approach to providing therapy includes CBT, Solution Focus, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychoeducation. I am always reviewing new therapeutic approaches that would support my clients' needs. I work with individuals who have anxiety, stress, depression, and self-esteem issues.
Hi! My name is Nikisha Brown. I am a licensed clinician. I work from a multidimensional approach to support my clients and provide a safe and judgment-free space for individuals to express themselves, feel seen and heard as they navigate life’s transitions and challenges. My Therapeutic approach to providing therapy includes CBT, Solution Focus, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychoeducation. I am always reviewing new therapeutic approaches that would support my clients' needs. I work with individuals who have anxiety, stress, depression, and self-esteem issues.
(760) 452-9855 View (760) 452-9855
Photo of Monet Goldman - Video Game Counseling, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Video Game Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086  (Online Only)
You're not alone in feeling the lasting impacts of stress, abuse, and neglect. Such hardships can often manifest in our lives as depression, anxiety, anger, or low self-esteem. Through therapy, we'll embark on a journey to navigate these difficult emotions, build your confidence, and help you express yourself authentically. If low motivation, worry, or stress has been weighing you down, consider therapy not merely as a solution but as a catalyst for growth.
You're not alone in feeling the lasting impacts of stress, abuse, and neglect. Such hardships can often manifest in our lives as depression, anxiety, anger, or low self-esteem. Through therapy, we'll embark on a journey to navigate these difficult emotions, build your confidence, and help you express yourself authentically. If low motivation, worry, or stress has been weighing you down, consider therapy not merely as a solution but as a catalyst for growth.
(408) 874-8158 View (408) 874-8158
Photo of Janet Barkin Jacobi, MA, JD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janet Barkin Jacobi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, JD
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
I see clients age 1 6 and up. I take a collaborative approach and provide the support, patience and compassion necessary to promote change and growth. I feel fortunate to work in private practice and at a local hospital. I see a diverse population of clients and have exposure to a wide variety of issues and diagnoses: anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, domestic violence/trauma, work/school stress, parenting, relationship problems, grief/loss, chronic illness/pain, assertiveness/self-esteem, gender incongruence, caregiver stress and life transitions (going to college, having a baby, getting married/divorced, moving, changing jobs).
I see clients age 1 6 and up. I take a collaborative approach and provide the support, patience and compassion necessary to promote change and growth. I feel fortunate to work in private practice and at a local hospital. I see a diverse population of clients and have exposure to a wide variety of issues and diagnoses: anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, domestic violence/trauma, work/school stress, parenting, relationship problems, grief/loss, chronic illness/pain, assertiveness/self-esteem, gender incongruence, caregiver stress and life transitions (going to college, having a baby, getting married/divorced, moving, changing jobs).
(408) 337-6829 View (408) 337-6829
Photo of Anat Fein, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anat Fein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94087  (Online Only)
I see clients with PTSD, emotional and social difficulties, chronic illnesses, depression, anxiety, obsessive thoughts and behaviors , and self esteem issues.
Emotional pain is as common as physical pain, and can be truely agonizing. Don't give up! You don't have to suffer alone. I come from a place of compassion, acceptance and hope. I am constantly amazed by the human spirit and by our ability to heal. I am eclectic, and use different approaches to meet each client's individual needs. I am open and honest with my clients and never judge anyone. My style is interactive and direct. I take my role seriously and am committed to helping you feel better. I'm fluent in English and Hebrew.
I see clients with PTSD, emotional and social difficulties, chronic illnesses, depression, anxiety, obsessive thoughts and behaviors , and self esteem issues.
Emotional pain is as common as physical pain, and can be truely agonizing. Don't give up! You don't have to suffer alone. I come from a place of compassion, acceptance and hope. I am constantly amazed by the human spirit and by our ability to heal. I am eclectic, and use different approaches to meet each client's individual needs. I am open and honest with my clients and never judge anyone. My style is interactive and direct. I take my role seriously and am committed to helping you feel better. I'm fluent in English and Hebrew.
(408) 310-0800 View (408) 310-0800
Photo of Junhong (June) Cao, PhD, Psychologist
Junhong (June) Cao
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and family with relationship concerns, stress, depression, anxiety, self esteem, anger, life transitions, emotional disturbance, trauma, and work related issues.
I invite you to schedule a free phone call for 15 minutes to answer your questions and concerns, discuss your insurance, and make a recommendation based on your needs. Whether you feel stuck, stressed, or unhappy for too long, I will assist you to identify your goals and figure out the way to change. I am a psychologist who speaks Chinese Mandarin and English in New York with more than 15 years of experience, I have the highest level of doctoral training to help people from different ethnic groups and LGBTQ+ community to overcome the challenges and live the best life possible.
I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and family with relationship concerns, stress, depression, anxiety, self esteem, anger, life transitions, emotional disturbance, trauma, and work related issues.
I invite you to schedule a free phone call for 15 minutes to answer your questions and concerns, discuss your insurance, and make a recommendation based on your needs. Whether you feel stuck, stressed, or unhappy for too long, I will assist you to identify your goals and figure out the way to change. I am a psychologist who speaks Chinese Mandarin and English in New York with more than 15 years of experience, I have the highest level of doctoral training to help people from different ethnic groups and LGBTQ+ community to overcome the challenges and live the best life possible.
(347) 542-8226 View (347) 542-8226
Photo of Melissa Lenon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Lenon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
My ideal client wants to enjoy their life and relationships more, notices patterns repeated in their lives, is reflective, perhaps insightful. Though many of us were wounded in childhood, few of us have had the opportunity to work through the challenges life presents. I look through the lens of our history and relationships to get under the surface of our symptoms. Our time together aims to bring relief from worries, fears, stress, low self-esteem & self-blame which greatly constrict our lives. I also work with separating & divorcing families, as a coach and coparent counselor to reduce conflict, put kids as the central focal point.
My ideal client wants to enjoy their life and relationships more, notices patterns repeated in their lives, is reflective, perhaps insightful. Though many of us were wounded in childhood, few of us have had the opportunity to work through the challenges life presents. I look through the lens of our history and relationships to get under the surface of our symptoms. Our time together aims to bring relief from worries, fears, stress, low self-esteem & self-blame which greatly constrict our lives. I also work with separating & divorcing families, as a coach and coparent counselor to reduce conflict, put kids as the central focal point.
(408) 709-7443 View (408) 709-7443
Photo of Larissa Alley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larissa Alley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Hi! My name is Larissa Alley. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California with over 8 years of experience providing compassionate and effective mental health care. My primary goal is to help clients navigate life's challenges and achieve their personal goals. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, grief, and life transitions by using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy among other theoretical approaches to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
Hi! My name is Larissa Alley. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California with over 8 years of experience providing compassionate and effective mental health care. My primary goal is to help clients navigate life's challenges and achieve their personal goals. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, grief, and life transitions by using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy among other theoretical approaches to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
(559) 379-6488 View (559) 379-6488
Photo of Kimberly Yantuche-Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Yantuche-Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
My name is Kimberly Yantuche-Hernandez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, panic attacks, mood disorders, stress, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, anger and impulse control, relationship problems, and self-esteem issues by utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Managing and Adaptive Practice (MAP), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, and play therapy.
My name is Kimberly Yantuche-Hernandez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, panic attacks, mood disorders, stress, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, anger and impulse control, relationship problems, and self-esteem issues by utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Managing and Adaptive Practice (MAP), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, and play therapy.
(209) 263-4822 View (209) 263-4822
Photo of Reyna Sotelo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reyna Sotelo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
For the past 10 years, I've diversified my professional experience through work, in a variety of mental health treatment facilities, serving several age groups from different backgrounds. I have worked in group homes, detention centers, adult reentry programs, inpatient residential treatment centers, a school district, and family law court. This multi-faceted background has provided me with a unique perspective and approach to those seeking therapy services. I enjoy working with people! I offer a quiet and welcoming space via Telehealth. I'm compassionate and good-humored.
For the past 10 years, I've diversified my professional experience through work, in a variety of mental health treatment facilities, serving several age groups from different backgrounds. I have worked in group homes, detention centers, adult reentry programs, inpatient residential treatment centers, a school district, and family law court. This multi-faceted background has provided me with a unique perspective and approach to those seeking therapy services. I enjoy working with people! I offer a quiet and welcoming space via Telehealth. I'm compassionate and good-humored.
(657) 837-5912 View (657) 837-5912
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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.