Photo of Matthew Wall, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ottawa, ON
Matthew Wall
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
Reducing reactivity helps you to be present in the moment and is one method for improving mood and self esteem, reducing anxiety, depression, anger, having better relationships, better communication, finding meaning, and most importantly enjoying life.
Have you ever felt that what is happening in your relationships and your life, even your own behaviors, is not what you want? My specialized approach to understanding and changing emotional patterns and behavior can help you feel confidence and satisfaction in yourself, your relationships, and your life. Our sessions will focus on enhancing self awareness and putting oneself in a position of choice. In therapy we will use methods which separate triggers and reactivity so you can decide what you really want and how you behave. Identifying reactivity reveals why you sometimes feel you are not choosing your behaviors.
Reducing reactivity helps you to be present in the moment and is one method for improving mood and self esteem, reducing anxiety, depression, anger, having better relationships, better communication, finding meaning, and most importantly enjoying life.
Have you ever felt that what is happening in your relationships and your life, even your own behaviors, is not what you want? My specialized approach to understanding and changing emotional patterns and behavior can help you feel confidence and satisfaction in yourself, your relationships, and your life. Our sessions will focus on enhancing self awareness and putting oneself in a position of choice. In therapy we will use methods which separate triggers and reactivity so you can decide what you really want and how you behave. Identifying reactivity reveals why you sometimes feel you are not choosing your behaviors.
(343) 633-3675 View (343) 633-3675
Photo of Anxiety Therapy for Women - Caitlin Bailer, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Anxiety Therapy for Women - Caitlin Bailer
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1K
I work with women struggling with anxiety, anger, stress, self esteem and trauma.
Accepting new clients! If you're a woman dealing with anxiety, I'm here to help. As someone who has been to therapy myself, I know how important it is to have someone you can talk to and trust with your daily worries and challenges. No matter what you're going through, whether it's a lot of things at once or something really big that's got you feeling swamped, I'm here to support you. We can team up to change these tough times into opportunities for growth, moving you towards a life filled with peace and strength.
I work with women struggling with anxiety, anger, stress, self esteem and trauma.
Accepting new clients! If you're a woman dealing with anxiety, I'm here to help. As someone who has been to therapy myself, I know how important it is to have someone you can talk to and trust with your daily worries and challenges. No matter what you're going through, whether it's a lot of things at once or something really big that's got you feeling swamped, I'm here to support you. We can team up to change these tough times into opportunities for growth, moving you towards a life filled with peace and strength.
(249) 505-0795 View (249) 505-0795
Photo of Samantha Willette, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Samantha Willette
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2A
I want to recognize starting the process of therapy may not seem like the easiest thing to do, but even just browsing this website is a great first step! My name is Samantha, feel free to call me Sam. It is my goal to make you feel comfortable and respected throughout your therapeutic journey, to offer a non-judgemental space, and lend an ear when you feel in need. I believe that we possess strength within ourselves to make changes in our lives for the better, and it is my job to support you in achieving the goals you desire for yourself.
I want to recognize starting the process of therapy may not seem like the easiest thing to do, but even just browsing this website is a great first step! My name is Samantha, feel free to call me Sam. It is my goal to make you feel comfortable and respected throughout your therapeutic journey, to offer a non-judgemental space, and lend an ear when you feel in need. I believe that we possess strength within ourselves to make changes in our lives for the better, and it is my job to support you in achieving the goals you desire for yourself.
(343) 308-2863 View (343) 308-2863
Photo of Yastika Kamboj, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ottawa, ON
Yastika Kamboj
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
“Emotion, which is suffering, ceases to be suffering as soon as we form a clear and precise picture of it.” Our lives may be marked by unpredictability, pain, and hardships. Consequently, it is only human to avoid pain. Unfortunately, this avoidance may also have had the unintended consequence of prolonging our suffering. But our challenges do not need to burden us forever. Whatever brought you to seek psychotherapy - you have taken a brave step towards change. I would like to affirm your well-being and growth.
“Emotion, which is suffering, ceases to be suffering as soon as we form a clear and precise picture of it.” Our lives may be marked by unpredictability, pain, and hardships. Consequently, it is only human to avoid pain. Unfortunately, this avoidance may also have had the unintended consequence of prolonging our suffering. But our challenges do not need to burden us forever. Whatever brought you to seek psychotherapy - you have taken a brave step towards change. I would like to affirm your well-being and growth.
(343) 801-1266 View (343) 801-1266
Photo of ADHD Therapy - Charlotte Dirken, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
ADHD Therapy - Charlotte Dirken
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A
I work with adults, kids and teens struggling with ADHD, autism, anxiety, anger, stress, self esteem and trauma.
With 5 years experience working with adults, teens and kids with ADHD and autism, I know what a relief it is for you to find someone with whom you feel comfortable to help sort out some of the stressors and troubles of everyday life. If you're managing many things at once, feeling swamped by a big moment, or dealing with anything else, especially with ADHD, remember I'm here to support you. I'm here to help you find your path, making sure your unique needs are met and your difficulties don't stand in your way. Let's journey towards a future where you feel empowered and at peace, embracing your ADHD as part of your strength.
I work with adults, kids and teens struggling with ADHD, autism, anxiety, anger, stress, self esteem and trauma.
With 5 years experience working with adults, teens and kids with ADHD and autism, I know what a relief it is for you to find someone with whom you feel comfortable to help sort out some of the stressors and troubles of everyday life. If you're managing many things at once, feeling swamped by a big moment, or dealing with anything else, especially with ADHD, remember I'm here to support you. I'm here to help you find your path, making sure your unique needs are met and your difficulties don't stand in your way. Let's journey towards a future where you feel empowered and at peace, embracing your ADHD as part of your strength.
(343) 313-1172 View (343) 313-1172
Photo of Anxiety Therapy for Women - Emily Tidman, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Anxiety Therapy for Women - Emily Tidman
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RPQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1K
I work with women struggling with anxiety, anger, stress, self esteem and trauma.
Accepting new clients - Having been in therapy myself, I know how amazing it feels to find someone who you can connect with, trust, and can help you overcome your struggles. No matter what you're going through – big problems, a tough life event, or anything else – I'm here to help you out. Let's work together to turn your tough times into steps that lead you to a calm and strong life. There's no problem too big or too small – I'm here to help you find your way and make sure you're not stuck because of your troubles.
I work with women struggling with anxiety, anger, stress, self esteem and trauma.
Accepting new clients - Having been in therapy myself, I know how amazing it feels to find someone who you can connect with, trust, and can help you overcome your struggles. No matter what you're going through – big problems, a tough life event, or anything else – I'm here to help you out. Let's work together to turn your tough times into steps that lead you to a calm and strong life. There's no problem too big or too small – I'm here to help you find your way and make sure you're not stuck because of your troubles.
(343) 309-9723 View (343) 309-9723
Photo of Hannah Walt, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Hannah Walt
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
Everyone needs support at times. In my practice, I work with clients aged 16+ who are experiencing issues related to anxiety, low mood, self-esteem, ADHD, disordered eating, and/or substance use issues. I also support clients in improving communication, managing stress, and enhancing overall emotional wellbeing. Together we will help you understand your "stuck" points and shift out of old cycles that are no longer serving you, so you can live a life that feels authentic and meaningful for you.
Everyone needs support at times. In my practice, I work with clients aged 16+ who are experiencing issues related to anxiety, low mood, self-esteem, ADHD, disordered eating, and/or substance use issues. I also support clients in improving communication, managing stress, and enhancing overall emotional wellbeing. Together we will help you understand your "stuck" points and shift out of old cycles that are no longer serving you, so you can live a life that feels authentic and meaningful for you.
(343) 308-8231 View (343) 308-8231
Photo of Natalia D'Abramo RN Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Natalia D'Abramo RN Psychotherapist
RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1J  (Online Only)
Welcome to one of my little corners on the internet. I am an RN Psychotherapist and associate at Janine Ruddy Online Psychotherapy. I typically work with those who are struggling with anxiety disorders, depression or school-related stressors—may that be perfectionism, procrastination, motivation, self-esteem issues, time-management and so forth. My approach to therapy is driven by compassion and empathy where we will work collaboratively on your goals. I am hoping you will be left with a vast tool box of skills as well as a more confident and peaceful outlook on life.
Welcome to one of my little corners on the internet. I am an RN Psychotherapist and associate at Janine Ruddy Online Psychotherapy. I typically work with those who are struggling with anxiety disorders, depression or school-related stressors—may that be perfectionism, procrastination, motivation, self-esteem issues, time-management and so forth. My approach to therapy is driven by compassion and empathy where we will work collaboratively on your goals. I am hoping you will be left with a vast tool box of skills as well as a more confident and peaceful outlook on life.
(343) 312-7313 View (343) 312-7313
Photo of Ada Choy, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Ada Choy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2J  (Online Only)
My heart is dedicated to supporting individuals like you in their journey towards healing and growth across Ontario virtually. My areas of focus include anxiety, self-esteem, ADHD, disordered eating, and trauma. I'm deeply committed to creating an inclusive space for everyone, particularly members of the BIPOC, 2SLGBTQ+, and neurodivergent communities. Whether your struggles surround overthinking, perfectionism, boundary setting, self-criticism, completing tasks, body image, trust issues, emotional dysregulation, managing triggers, and more - I want to be here alongside you to work towards what hope and change looks like for you.
My heart is dedicated to supporting individuals like you in their journey towards healing and growth across Ontario virtually. My areas of focus include anxiety, self-esteem, ADHD, disordered eating, and trauma. I'm deeply committed to creating an inclusive space for everyone, particularly members of the BIPOC, 2SLGBTQ+, and neurodivergent communities. Whether your struggles surround overthinking, perfectionism, boundary setting, self-criticism, completing tasks, body image, trust issues, emotional dysregulation, managing triggers, and more - I want to be here alongside you to work towards what hope and change looks like for you.
(343) 633-2784 View (343) 633-2784
Photo of Julia Maiorino, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Julia Maiorino
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
It is my goal to provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental and honest environment where they can feel most comfortable exploring their thoughts, emotions and troubles. Much of my experience comes from working in mental health at The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre. I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults as they develop the courage to explore their vulnerabilities on their journey towards wellness and fulfilment. My experience has allowed me to develop skills in working with depression, anxiety, grief, issues related to sexuality, emotional regulation, social fears and phobias, self-esteem and suicidal ideation.
It is my goal to provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental and honest environment where they can feel most comfortable exploring their thoughts, emotions and troubles. Much of my experience comes from working in mental health at The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre. I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults as they develop the courage to explore their vulnerabilities on their journey towards wellness and fulfilment. My experience has allowed me to develop skills in working with depression, anxiety, grief, issues related to sexuality, emotional regulation, social fears and phobias, self-esteem and suicidal ideation.
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Photo of Anxiety Therapy for Women - Lindsey Cepek, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Anxiety Therapy for Women - Lindsey Cepek
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A
I work with women struggling with anxiety, anger, stress, self esteem and trauma.
Having been in counselling myself, I know what a relief it is to find someone with whom you feel comfortable to help sort out some of the stressors and troubles of everyday life. Whether you’re dealing with a multitude of issues, feeling overwhelmed by a significant event, or anything in between, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to transform your struggles into stepping stones, leading you towards a peaceful and empowered life. No challenge is too big or too small – I’m dedicated to helping you find your way and ensuring you no longer feel held back by your troubles.
I work with women struggling with anxiety, anger, stress, self esteem and trauma.
Having been in counselling myself, I know what a relief it is to find someone with whom you feel comfortable to help sort out some of the stressors and troubles of everyday life. Whether you’re dealing with a multitude of issues, feeling overwhelmed by a significant event, or anything in between, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to transform your struggles into stepping stones, leading you towards a peaceful and empowered life. No challenge is too big or too small – I’m dedicated to helping you find your way and ensuring you no longer feel held back by your troubles.
(343) 429-8138 View (343) 429-8138
Photo of Alana Brinson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ottawa, ON
Alana Brinson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E
We all deserve to feel at peace in our body and truly love the skin we are in. Do you worry over your body, exercise, or what you eat? Does your harsh inner voice control your life? Maybe you are anxious and overwhelmed, struggling to manage stress and find a work/life balance? If so, you don’t have to continue experiencing these daily struggles, and I am here to help. I am passionate about helping individuals like you break free of the hold disordered eating, body image, low self-esteem, anxiety and stress have on you.
We all deserve to feel at peace in our body and truly love the skin we are in. Do you worry over your body, exercise, or what you eat? Does your harsh inner voice control your life? Maybe you are anxious and overwhelmed, struggling to manage stress and find a work/life balance? If so, you don’t have to continue experiencing these daily struggles, and I am here to help. I am passionate about helping individuals like you break free of the hold disordered eating, body image, low self-esteem, anxiety and stress have on you.
(343) 313-0436 View (343) 313-0436
Photo of ADHD Therapy - Christianne Teixeira, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
ADHD Therapy - Christianne Teixeira
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1K
I work with individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, time-management, impulsivity, burnout, relationship issues, controlling emotions, stress, and self esteem.
Accepting new clients! I work with adults and teens living with ADHD and neurodivergent individuals. I've come to understand the immense relief that comes from connecting with someone who truly gets it. Someone who you can trust to navigate through the daily stressors and challenges that life throws your way. Whether you're juggling multiple responsibilities, feeling overwhelmed by significant life events, or facing any other obstacle, particularly with ADHD, know that I'm here to lend my support. My goal is to assist you in finding your own way, ensuring that your unique needs are addressed and your challenges are overcome
I work with individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, time-management, impulsivity, burnout, relationship issues, controlling emotions, stress, and self esteem.
Accepting new clients! I work with adults and teens living with ADHD and neurodivergent individuals. I've come to understand the immense relief that comes from connecting with someone who truly gets it. Someone who you can trust to navigate through the daily stressors and challenges that life throws your way. Whether you're juggling multiple responsibilities, feeling overwhelmed by significant life events, or facing any other obstacle, particularly with ADHD, know that I'm here to lend my support. My goal is to assist you in finding your own way, ensuring that your unique needs are addressed and your challenges are overcome
(343) 313-1480 View (343) 313-1480
Photo of Anxiety Therapy for Women - Victoria Nyman, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Anxiety Therapy for Women - Victoria Nyman
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1K
I work with women struggling with anxiety, anger, stress, self esteem and trauma.
Accepting New Clients! As someone who has been to counselling myself, I understand how comforting it is to have a supportive person to talk to about anxiety and life's challenges. Whether you're facing a variety of problems, feeling swamped by a big life event, or anything else, I'm here to offer help. We can partner up to help you overcome your struggles, to guide you towards a life where you no-longer feel constricted by what you're going through. I'm a solution-focused therapist, meaning I will work to get you to a place where you no-longer require therapy.
I work with women struggling with anxiety, anger, stress, self esteem and trauma.
Accepting New Clients! As someone who has been to counselling myself, I understand how comforting it is to have a supportive person to talk to about anxiety and life's challenges. Whether you're facing a variety of problems, feeling swamped by a big life event, or anything else, I'm here to offer help. We can partner up to help you overcome your struggles, to guide you towards a life where you no-longer feel constricted by what you're going through. I'm a solution-focused therapist, meaning I will work to get you to a place where you no-longer require therapy.
(343) 338-5374 View (343) 338-5374
Photo of Aleksandra Kozak, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Aleksandra Kozak
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C
I specialize in promoting positive body image and self-esteem; I attend to clients with trauma, anger management, grief, relationship issues, and work or personal stress and anxiety. I work collaboratively with each client to deliver a unique treatment plan which may include Attachment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Traumatic Incident Reduction Therapy, and Mindfulness and Stress Reduction Therapy. I believe that the combination of these therapeutic elements allows for clients to foster positive perceptions and insights essential to achieving optimal well-being.
I specialize in promoting positive body image and self-esteem; I attend to clients with trauma, anger management, grief, relationship issues, and work or personal stress and anxiety. I work collaboratively with each client to deliver a unique treatment plan which may include Attachment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Traumatic Incident Reduction Therapy, and Mindfulness and Stress Reduction Therapy. I believe that the combination of these therapeutic elements allows for clients to foster positive perceptions and insights essential to achieving optimal well-being.
(343) 453-0209 View (343) 453-0209
Photo of Charlotte MacKenzie, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Charlotte MacKenzie
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
Currently accepting adult clients. In individual therapy, I work with adults and adolescents experiencing a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety and burnout as well as self-esteem difficulties. I aim to create a nonjudgmental, empathic, shame-free therapeutic space where you may feel safe to express yourself fully and to explore challenging thoughts, emotions, behaviours and relationships. I am comfortable working with individuals from all socio-cultural backgrounds (i.e. race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation).
Currently accepting adult clients. In individual therapy, I work with adults and adolescents experiencing a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety and burnout as well as self-esteem difficulties. I aim to create a nonjudgmental, empathic, shame-free therapeutic space where you may feel safe to express yourself fully and to explore challenging thoughts, emotions, behaviours and relationships. I am comfortable working with individuals from all socio-cultural backgrounds (i.e. race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation).
(613) 801-8626 View (613) 801-8626
Photo of Nick Kenny, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Nick Kenny
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R
My style is calm, curious, and nonjudgemental. To deepen your self-understanding and make sense of things, we can discuss your perspectives, emotions, experiences, and give your unconscious or implicit memory a voice. We can also explore more practical information and strategies. Like, how our minds and bodies react to stress, and skills for regulating emotions and managing relationships. My approach pulls from many therapeutic modalities and utilizes techniques supported by research and my experience.
My style is calm, curious, and nonjudgemental. To deepen your self-understanding and make sense of things, we can discuss your perspectives, emotions, experiences, and give your unconscious or implicit memory a voice. We can also explore more practical information and strategies. Like, how our minds and bodies react to stress, and skills for regulating emotions and managing relationships. My approach pulls from many therapeutic modalities and utilizes techniques supported by research and my experience.
(343) 308-4283 View (343) 308-4283
Photo of Catherine Walmsley, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Catherine Walmsley
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, MSc
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K0A
Hello! If you’re looking for compassionate support and therapeutic tools to help you deal with thoughts, behaviours, sensations and/or emotions, I may be able to help! I offer psychotherapy services to youth and adults, using various evidence-based techniques which target the mind, body, and their inherent connection. My person-centered approach aims to enhance your self-awareness by attending to all the dimensions of you, especially your authentic self. Therapy can be a great place to examine your current ways of being and coping, reflecting on what no longer serves you to learn more adaptive strategies.
Hello! If you’re looking for compassionate support and therapeutic tools to help you deal with thoughts, behaviours, sensations and/or emotions, I may be able to help! I offer psychotherapy services to youth and adults, using various evidence-based techniques which target the mind, body, and their inherent connection. My person-centered approach aims to enhance your self-awareness by attending to all the dimensions of you, especially your authentic self. Therapy can be a great place to examine your current ways of being and coping, reflecting on what no longer serves you to learn more adaptive strategies.
(343) 655-1810 View (343) 655-1810
Photo of Kristina Pearson, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Kristina Pearson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1T
Are you struggling with anxiety, self-esteem or life transitions? Are traumatic events or difficult relationships from your past affecting your present? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your true self, or your partner? If so, therapy might be a suitable option for you. Therapy can help clear your head, lead you to better understand your emotions and move towards a better quality of life. Therapy can also help you reconnect with what matters most to inspire you to live the life you want to live.
Are you struggling with anxiety, self-esteem or life transitions? Are traumatic events or difficult relationships from your past affecting your present? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your true self, or your partner? If so, therapy might be a suitable option for you. Therapy can help clear your head, lead you to better understand your emotions and move towards a better quality of life. Therapy can also help you reconnect with what matters most to inspire you to live the life you want to live.
(343) 304-6303 View (343) 304-6303
Photo of Lola Sholagbade, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Lola Sholagbade
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, GDip, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1V
Welcome and thank you for stopping by! It is never easy to take the step towards change, yet, here you are taking that very step. Perhaps you've been worn down by life or you are stuck because of an inner conflict. Do you have trouble identifying and accepting your emotions or are mired in self-defeating beliefs and irrational thoughts? I can help. I embrace a compassion-focused approach which helps to ease your burdens, alleviate your hurt and lessen your struggles. I provide a warm, confidential and non-judgmental space which fosters a quieting of the mind that enable and empower you to actualize your hopes, dreams, and ideas.
Welcome and thank you for stopping by! It is never easy to take the step towards change, yet, here you are taking that very step. Perhaps you've been worn down by life or you are stuck because of an inner conflict. Do you have trouble identifying and accepting your emotions or are mired in self-defeating beliefs and irrational thoughts? I can help. I embrace a compassion-focused approach which helps to ease your burdens, alleviate your hurt and lessen your struggles. I provide a warm, confidential and non-judgmental space which fosters a quieting of the mind that enable and empower you to actualize your hopes, dreams, and ideas.
(343) 308-8408 View (343) 308-8408

See more therapy options for Ottawa

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.