Self Esteem Therapists in Mississauga, ON

Photo of Nikki Das, Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist, MSW, RSW
Nikki Das
Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5C
I work with South Asian women in their 20s and early 30s who, on the outside, have so much to be proud of, but internally may feel overwhelmed at times, question their self-worth or experience dating and relationship challenges.
As an integrative therapist, I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space that allows for open dialogue. By blending research backed attachment and trauma-informed practices, we’ll collaborate to make sense of your feelings and reframe unhelpful narratives. I also value honouring your unique pace, moving in a way that feels right & comfortable for you.
I work with South Asian women in their 20s and early 30s who, on the outside, have so much to be proud of, but internally may feel overwhelmed at times, question their self-worth or experience dating and relationship challenges.
As an integrative therapist, I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space that allows for open dialogue. By blending research backed attachment and trauma-informed practices, we’ll collaborate to make sense of your feelings and reframe unhelpful narratives. I also value honouring your unique pace, moving in a way that feels right & comfortable for you.
(365) 796-3588 View (365) 796-3588
Photo of Rui Hao, Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Rui Hao
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5H
I have extensive clinical experience helping adolescents and adults with low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.
I am a registered social worker, psychotherapist with a Master's degree from University of Toronto. I've been working as a hospital social worker in mental health field since 2007 and won Professional Practice Award. In my private practice, I provide counseling and psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. I am also a tutor at University of Toronto Medical School. I am fluent in English and Mandarin and have extensive experience working with clients facing challenges during major life transitions. I use a variety of methods to help clients discover their strength and develop balanced core beliefs.
I have extensive clinical experience helping adolescents and adults with low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.
I am a registered social worker, psychotherapist with a Master's degree from University of Toronto. I've been working as a hospital social worker in mental health field since 2007 and won Professional Practice Award. In my private practice, I provide counseling and psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. I am also a tutor at University of Toronto Medical School. I am fluent in English and Mandarin and have extensive experience working with clients facing challenges during major life transitions. I use a variety of methods to help clients discover their strength and develop balanced core beliefs.
(289) 724-4313 View (289) 724-4313
Photo of Stephanie Giacomelli, Registered Psychotherapist
Stephanie Giacomelli
Registered Psychotherapist
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5L
Hello and welcome! I am currently on maternity leave, returning summer 2026. If you've landed here, you might be feeling overwhelmed with various emotions and in need of some one-on-one support. I hear you, I see you, and I am here to walk alongside you on your unique journey. As a trauma-informed, and culturally-sensitive therapist as well as a certified yoga teacher, I’m committed to fostering a mind-body connection through our sessions. I believe that our bodies store our unique lived experiences, expressing them through important body cues in our nervous system, and I look forward to working through them together, with you.
Hello and welcome! I am currently on maternity leave, returning summer 2026. If you've landed here, you might be feeling overwhelmed with various emotions and in need of some one-on-one support. I hear you, I see you, and I am here to walk alongside you on your unique journey. As a trauma-informed, and culturally-sensitive therapist as well as a certified yoga teacher, I’m committed to fostering a mind-body connection through our sessions. I believe that our bodies store our unique lived experiences, expressing them through important body cues in our nervous system, and I look forward to working through them together, with you.
(289) 217-0041 View (289) 217-0041
Photo of Polly Sidher - Moksha Psychotherapy, Counselling & Consulting, Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, AA, RSW
Moksha Psychotherapy, Counselling & Consulting
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, AA, RSW
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Are there areas in your life that you'd like to strengthen? Do you feel 'stuck' or in a pattern that keeps you from enjoying & participating in your life fully? Are you also dealing with a chronic illness such as anxiety & depression that are impacting other areas? Would you like a safe & confidential space & time reserved just for you and/or a loved one to process past & current life events, build new coping skills and outcomes with a better quality of life? If so, let's arrange a session after your initial consultation so that I can help YOU help yourself again! We have a growing team of Psychotherapists.
Are there areas in your life that you'd like to strengthen? Do you feel 'stuck' or in a pattern that keeps you from enjoying & participating in your life fully? Are you also dealing with a chronic illness such as anxiety & depression that are impacting other areas? Would you like a safe & confidential space & time reserved just for you and/or a loved one to process past & current life events, build new coping skills and outcomes with a better quality of life? If so, let's arrange a session after your initial consultation so that I can help YOU help yourself again! We have a growing team of Psychotherapists.
(289) 278-9736 View (289) 278-9736
Photo of Sukhmeet Brar, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Sukhmeet Brar
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
I help clients dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
Sometimes your mind can feel overwhelming, like everything is happening at once and even small decisions feel heavy. The pressure, expectations, and self-doubt can leave you feeling stuck and exhausted. With the right support, things can start to feel clearer. You can learn to understand your emotions, trust yourself, and feel more grounded in your choices. This process often begins with making space for what you’re feeling, setting boundaries that protect your energy, and learning when to hold on and when to let go.
I help clients dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
Sometimes your mind can feel overwhelming, like everything is happening at once and even small decisions feel heavy. The pressure, expectations, and self-doubt can leave you feeling stuck and exhausted. With the right support, things can start to feel clearer. You can learn to understand your emotions, trust yourself, and feel more grounded in your choices. This process often begins with making space for what you’re feeling, setting boundaries that protect your energy, and learning when to hold on and when to let go.
(289) 302-6687 View (289) 302-6687
Photo of Jason Colero, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP, Qualify
Jason Colero
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP, Qualify
Online Only
Are you the one everyone relies on, constantly pushing yourself to succeed yet feeling like it’s never quite enough? Perfectionism can drive you to achieve, but it can also leave you exhausted, stressed, burnt out, and questioning your worth. Maybe you’re stuck in cycles of overthinking, self-criticism, or comparing yourself to others. Over time, this pressure can take a toll on your relationships, performance, and well-being. Therapy offers space to pause, reset, and find a healthier way forward. Let me work with you collaboratively, to be the personal trainer for your mind. Leaving you with tools that will help for the future.
Are you the one everyone relies on, constantly pushing yourself to succeed yet feeling like it’s never quite enough? Perfectionism can drive you to achieve, but it can also leave you exhausted, stressed, burnt out, and questioning your worth. Maybe you’re stuck in cycles of overthinking, self-criticism, or comparing yourself to others. Over time, this pressure can take a toll on your relationships, performance, and well-being. Therapy offers space to pause, reset, and find a healthier way forward. Let me work with you collaboratively, to be the personal trainer for your mind. Leaving you with tools that will help for the future.
(365) 413-9283 View (365) 413-9283
Photo of Carolyn Anne Buhler - Carolyn Buhler- Social Worker & Psychotherapist, Registered Social Worker, MA CPSY, MSW, RSW
Carolyn Buhler- Social Worker & Psychotherapist
Registered Social Worker, MA CPSY, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5L
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, stress, burnout, self-esteem, relationships, career decisions, or life transitions, I offer a warm, compassionate space to support your healing, growth, and meaningful change.
My approach is client-centred, strength-based, and trauma-informed. Sessions are thoughtfully tailored to your unique needs, drawing from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Narrative, and Somatic approaches to support emotional healing, resilience, and personal growth.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, stress, burnout, self-esteem, relationships, career decisions, or life transitions, I offer a warm, compassionate space to support your healing, growth, and meaningful change.
My approach is client-centred, strength-based, and trauma-informed. Sessions are thoughtfully tailored to your unique needs, drawing from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Narrative, and Somatic approaches to support emotional healing, resilience, and personal growth.
(365) 654-6715 View (365) 654-6715
Photo of Octavia Sampson, Registered Psychotherapist, MCP
Octavia Sampson
Registered Psychotherapist, MCP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you desiring greater awareness, joy, and connection in your life? It is my passion to provide therapeutic care and guidance for you to overcome stress, anxiety, fear, diversity concerns, and relationship issues along with other mental health impacts. I encourage you to seek greater wellbeing by building coping skills, restoring hope and improving your ability to manage emotions, as you access self-compassion. It is a joy to work with youth and adults who are ready to start thriving fully in their lives.
Are you desiring greater awareness, joy, and connection in your life? It is my passion to provide therapeutic care and guidance for you to overcome stress, anxiety, fear, diversity concerns, and relationship issues along with other mental health impacts. I encourage you to seek greater wellbeing by building coping skills, restoring hope and improving your ability to manage emotions, as you access self-compassion. It is a joy to work with youth and adults who are ready to start thriving fully in their lives.
(289) 277-7357 View (289) 277-7357
Photo of Corine Mollins, Psychologist, MSc, CPsych
Corine Mollins
Psychologist, MSc, CPsych
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
I support clients through a variety of challenges including: depression, anxiety, self-esteem, anger, addiction, workplace conflict, relationship issues, separation/divorce, and grief/loss, and many others.
As a Registered Psychologist with 15 years of experience, I can provide you with the tools and strategies you need to make lasting, positive changes and to lead a life in which you continue to thrive. My goal is always to establish a healthy therapeutic rapport with my clients through an integrative, holistic, and collaborative approach. Everyone has the capacity to improve their overall well-being through therapy. My role is to use my expertise to support you in that endeavour.
I support clients through a variety of challenges including: depression, anxiety, self-esteem, anger, addiction, workplace conflict, relationship issues, separation/divorce, and grief/loss, and many others.
As a Registered Psychologist with 15 years of experience, I can provide you with the tools and strategies you need to make lasting, positive changes and to lead a life in which you continue to thrive. My goal is always to establish a healthy therapeutic rapport with my clients through an integrative, holistic, and collaborative approach. Everyone has the capacity to improve their overall well-being through therapy. My role is to use my expertise to support you in that endeavour.
(289) 768-9073 View (289) 768-9073
Photo of Harleen Gill, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA
Harleen Gill
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
The fact that you are on this website right now is a testament to your strength and bravery, as you have taken the vital first step towards helping yourself and you are seeking relief from what is troubling you, whether that is anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, interpersonal problems, identity struggles, or stress.
As a woman of colour raised by two immigrants, I am not a stranger to adversity. Being a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I aim to alter my approach according to your unique needs which may involve principles from various therapeutic modalities. I seek to build a strong and collaborative therapeutic alliance with you using a culturally-informed lens.
The fact that you are on this website right now is a testament to your strength and bravery, as you have taken the vital first step towards helping yourself and you are seeking relief from what is troubling you, whether that is anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, interpersonal problems, identity struggles, or stress.
As a woman of colour raised by two immigrants, I am not a stranger to adversity. Being a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I aim to alter my approach according to your unique needs which may involve principles from various therapeutic modalities. I seek to build a strong and collaborative therapeutic alliance with you using a culturally-informed lens.
View
Photo of Janki Shah - Pure Path Psychotherapy & Wellness, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Pure Path Psychotherapy & Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help adults who overthink relationships, feel anxious in love, or struggle with repeating emotional patterns to feel understood, safe, and capable of change. If you find yourself replaying conversations in your mind, worrying about how others feel about you, or feeling anxious when people pull away, you're not alone. I work with clients to explore the emotional patterns that drive their behaviour and to develop practical strategies to feel more confident, fulfilled, and connected to others. My approach blends evidence-based therapy with optional spiritual integration for those who want deeper meaning and personal growth.
I help adults who overthink relationships, feel anxious in love, or struggle with repeating emotional patterns to feel understood, safe, and capable of change. If you find yourself replaying conversations in your mind, worrying about how others feel about you, or feeling anxious when people pull away, you're not alone. I work with clients to explore the emotional patterns that drive their behaviour and to develop practical strategies to feel more confident, fulfilled, and connected to others. My approach blends evidence-based therapy with optional spiritual integration for those who want deeper meaning and personal growth.
(365) 363-3126 View (365) 363-3126
Photo of Alex Nicholls - Alexander Nicholls - Art Therapy & TTRPG Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist, DTATI, RP
Alexander Nicholls - Art Therapy & TTRPG Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, DTATI, RP
5 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5N
Explore YOU through Art & Games! If you want to engage your imagination and creativity to make a positive change in your own life, relationships, and the communities around you - this could be the type of therapy you've been looking for! Art Therapy & Game Therapy are designed to support people of all ages and stages of life, as well as diverse populations. Art & game therapy can provide new perspectives, shift established patterns of behaviour, foster community and new relationships - all while providing insight and understanding. Why not imagine a better future for yourself - all while being excited, engaged, and having FUN!
Explore YOU through Art & Games! If you want to engage your imagination and creativity to make a positive change in your own life, relationships, and the communities around you - this could be the type of therapy you've been looking for! Art Therapy & Game Therapy are designed to support people of all ages and stages of life, as well as diverse populations. Art & game therapy can provide new perspectives, shift established patterns of behaviour, foster community and new relationships - all while providing insight and understanding. Why not imagine a better future for yourself - all while being excited, engaged, and having FUN!
(365) 363-0744 View (365) 363-0744
Photo of Shimone DeNiese, Registered Psychotherapist
Shimone DeNiese
Registered Psychotherapist
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
Welcome and thank you for being here! I'm a Registered Psychotherapist dedicated to supporting you on your journey toward healing, growth, and self-discovery. Whether you're looking to make meaningful changes in your life or need a safe space to process and let go, I’m here to support you with empathy and care. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and I strive to create a welcoming, non-judgmental environment where you feel seen and heard. I value open and honest communication, and my goal is to foster a space where you can feel safe to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences at your own pace.
Welcome and thank you for being here! I'm a Registered Psychotherapist dedicated to supporting you on your journey toward healing, growth, and self-discovery. Whether you're looking to make meaningful changes in your life or need a safe space to process and let go, I’m here to support you with empathy and care. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and I strive to create a welcoming, non-judgmental environment where you feel seen and heard. I value open and honest communication, and my goal is to foster a space where you can feel safe to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences at your own pace.
(289) 778-0397 View (289) 778-0397
Photo of Kiran Maqsood, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSc, Psych
Kiran Maqsood
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSc, Psych
Mississauga, ON L5M
I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship/workplace issue, low self esteem, life transitions, crises, grief and loss, trauma, abuse, divorce/separation.
I enjoy my work and I am passionate to help my clients. My clients often tells me that my good listening skills and nonjudgmental approach helps them to feel safe and open up in the therapy. I am member with good standing with College of registered Psychotherapist of Ontario who has achieved Postgraduate certifications and intensive training on Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), DBT, IFS, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, SBFT, EMDR, and Sand Play. I am also member with Ontario Association of Mental Health Consultants, Counselors, Psychotherapists and Psychometrician OACCPP; Canadian Association of Play Therapist CAPT.
I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship/workplace issue, low self esteem, life transitions, crises, grief and loss, trauma, abuse, divorce/separation.
I enjoy my work and I am passionate to help my clients. My clients often tells me that my good listening skills and nonjudgmental approach helps them to feel safe and open up in the therapy. I am member with good standing with College of registered Psychotherapist of Ontario who has achieved Postgraduate certifications and intensive training on Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), DBT, IFS, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, SBFT, EMDR, and Sand Play. I am also member with Ontario Association of Mental Health Consultants, Counselors, Psychotherapists and Psychometrician OACCPP; Canadian Association of Play Therapist CAPT.
(289) 277-5396 View (289) 277-5396
Photo of Hardeep Ajmani, Registered Social Worker, MSW
Hardeep Ajmani
Registered Social Worker, MSW
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
So you know that feeling when you just can’t get your mind to stop thinking? It replays conversations, berates you for not doing enough or worries if you’re falling behind in life. Your confidence dips, you find it hard to make decisions, and self doubt follows you around like a puppy. You’ve tried to talk to your loved ones but “don’t sweat the small stuff” just doesn’t cut it. You’ve done the yoga classes, the meditations, the journaling and they help, but your mind starts back up soon after. I’m here to say, you don’t have to live like that. You’re on this site to figure this out once and for all. Let's go.
So you know that feeling when you just can’t get your mind to stop thinking? It replays conversations, berates you for not doing enough or worries if you’re falling behind in life. Your confidence dips, you find it hard to make decisions, and self doubt follows you around like a puppy. You’ve tried to talk to your loved ones but “don’t sweat the small stuff” just doesn’t cut it. You’ve done the yoga classes, the meditations, the journaling and they help, but your mind starts back up soon after. I’m here to say, you don’t have to live like that. You’re on this site to figure this out once and for all. Let's go.
(289) 768-9089 View (289) 768-9089
Photo of Danielle Maier, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Danielle Maier
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling with your mood, behaviours or relationships? Do you seek a space to heal, grow, and unlock the potential for a brighter future? Asking for help can feel daunting, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. I’m here to meet you where you are, building trust and using a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to your needs. Together, we'll work on providing the tools and resources that empower you to overcome obstacles, regain control, and make meaningful, positive changes in your life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling with your mood, behaviours or relationships? Do you seek a space to heal, grow, and unlock the potential for a brighter future? Asking for help can feel daunting, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. I’m here to meet you where you are, building trust and using a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to your needs. Together, we'll work on providing the tools and resources that empower you to overcome obstacles, regain control, and make meaningful, positive changes in your life.
(289) 274-9167 View (289) 274-9167
Photo of Nicole E Douglas-Lynch, Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Nicole E Douglas-Lynch
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Online Only
Welcome! My name is Nicole and I have over 20 years of experience working in the field of mental health.  I believe that everyone has a light within them  - a source of resilience, strength and possibility. Sometimes, life's challenges and emotional layers can make that light feel dim or hidden.  My role as your therapist is to walk alongside you on your healing journey, supporting you as you uncover and nurture that light.
Welcome! My name is Nicole and I have over 20 years of experience working in the field of mental health.  I believe that everyone has a light within them  - a source of resilience, strength and possibility. Sometimes, life's challenges and emotional layers can make that light feel dim or hidden.  My role as your therapist is to walk alongside you on your healing journey, supporting you as you uncover and nurture that light.
(365) 617-0168 View (365) 617-0168
Photo of Ornella Harris - Ornella Harris, Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Ornella Harris
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You’re accomplished, self‑aware, and used to thinking things through. On the outside, life may look solid, but internally you may feel anxious, burnt out, or unsettled in ways that are hard to name. You might be navigating professional pressure, relationship challenges, or a sense that you’re no longer aligned with who you are or where you’re headed. You’re looking for clarity, emotional steadiness, and a thoughtful process - not surface‑level advice. I support clients in moving from overwhelm to clarity through a structured, collaborative approach that fosters insight, emotional regulation, and sustainable progress.
You’re accomplished, self‑aware, and used to thinking things through. On the outside, life may look solid, but internally you may feel anxious, burnt out, or unsettled in ways that are hard to name. You might be navigating professional pressure, relationship challenges, or a sense that you’re no longer aligned with who you are or where you’re headed. You’re looking for clarity, emotional steadiness, and a thoughtful process - not surface‑level advice. I support clients in moving from overwhelm to clarity through a structured, collaborative approach that fosters insight, emotional regulation, and sustainable progress.
(289) 216-6877 View (289) 216-6877
Photo of Mark Puvaneswaran, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, MBA
Mark Puvaneswaran
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, MBA
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
If you're a South Asian young professional (ages 18 to 35) attempting to navigate challenges around self-esteem, anxiety or dating/relationships, I see and hear where you're coming from.
As a counsellor, my role is to work with clients in digging deeper, reflecting and moving towards meaningful change utilizing empirically proven therapeutic approaches. I also work to consistently support my clients from an empathetic and non-judgmental approach while obtaining regular feedback to ensure that I am meeting their needs.
If you're a South Asian young professional (ages 18 to 35) attempting to navigate challenges around self-esteem, anxiety or dating/relationships, I see and hear where you're coming from.
As a counsellor, my role is to work with clients in digging deeper, reflecting and moving towards meaningful change utilizing empirically proven therapeutic approaches. I also work to consistently support my clients from an empathetic and non-judgmental approach while obtaining regular feedback to ensure that I am meeting their needs.
(365) 658-0884 View (365) 658-0884
Photo of Saad Kiyani, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Saad Kiyani
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
6 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5T
I often help people with concerns around anxiety, self-esteem, romantic relationships, and managing work stress.
Many families are big, loud, and full of life. They can also have no privacy, interfering relatives, blatant sexism, and an infinite supply of shame and guilt trips. I help people deal the abuse and judgment they have faced in their own household. From angry parents, manipulative in-laws, and toxic aunties, I work with people to identify the kind of life they want. We work to find independence, build boundaries, and learn how to regulate our emotions. I help you find ways to stand up, unburden yourself from the past, and not continue to be chained by how others treat you. Everyone deserves to feel love and care in relationships.
I often help people with concerns around anxiety, self-esteem, romantic relationships, and managing work stress.
Many families are big, loud, and full of life. They can also have no privacy, interfering relatives, blatant sexism, and an infinite supply of shame and guilt trips. I help people deal the abuse and judgment they have faced in their own household. From angry parents, manipulative in-laws, and toxic aunties, I work with people to identify the kind of life they want. We work to find independence, build boundaries, and learn how to regulate our emotions. I help you find ways to stand up, unburden yourself from the past, and not continue to be chained by how others treat you. Everyone deserves to feel love and care in relationships.
(365) 598-5948 View (365) 598-5948

See more therapy options for Mississauga

Self Esteem Counsellors
When should a person seek therapy for low self-esteem?
When self-esteem problems begin to disrupt the healthy daily functioning of an individual, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If a person finds that they are not engaging with friends for fear of being judged, not completing work assignments because they don’t think they’re capable, or not finding romantic love because they don’t feel they’re worthy of it, a therapist may be able to help.

What are the signs of low self-esteem?
Low self-esteem is a common issue that can affect a person's mental and emotional well-being. Some common signs of low self-esteem include negative self-talk, perfectionism, social anxiety, difficulty making decisions, an inability to set boundaries, people-pleasing, and others. A lack of belief in oneself or one’s abilities and a feeling of not being worthy or deserving underlie most of these characteristics.

What causes low self-esteem?
Feelings of low self-worth can begin in childhood or adulthood. Being raised by a highly critical parent or growing up feeling constant disapproval can stay with a person well into adulthood. Specific issues in adulthood may also be a cause of low self-esteem. An unhappy relationship, a dysfunctional work or school experience can impact a person’s feelings of self-worth.

How can therapy improve self-esteem?
Therapists can help identify negative thought patterns that keep the client stuck in a loop of destructive self-talk and develop coping skills to change the voice in their head. A therapist can help with goal-setting, so that clients are better able to stay on task and build confidence from successfully completing work they’re proud of. Coaching a client on how to better communicate can improve relationships. These skills can result in someone with low self-esteem feeling empowered and living with less fear.