Self Esteem Therapists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Maggie Novotny, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Maggie Novotny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Oakland, CA 94619
Hello! Thank you for visiting! I’m Maggie. Are you struggling with negative or anxious thoughts, feeling “stuck” in your life, or having difficulty keeping up with the day-to-day without it impacting your sleep, relationships, and self-esteem? Are you frustrated, irritable, feeling unheard and struggling to cope?
Hello! Thank you for visiting! I’m Maggie. Are you struggling with negative or anxious thoughts, feeling “stuck” in your life, or having difficulty keeping up with the day-to-day without it impacting your sleep, relationships, and self-esteem? Are you frustrated, irritable, feeling unheard and struggling to cope?
(925) 526-7487 View (925) 526-7487
Photo of Kaitlin Dougherty, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kaitlin Dougherty
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Oakland, CA 94611
Hello! I am a Jungian psychotherapist, primarily based in the East Bay. I work with children, teens and adults. Most of my clients are people who have experienced being othered or marginalized, either by society or by family and friends. Many of my clients are queer, and/or neurodivergent, and/or have experienced trauma through abuse and loss. All of my clients are seeking to cultivate healthy relationships with themselves and others. Our work together aims to heal the wounds that get in the way of that happening.
Hello! I am a Jungian psychotherapist, primarily based in the East Bay. I work with children, teens and adults. Most of my clients are people who have experienced being othered or marginalized, either by society or by family and friends. Many of my clients are queer, and/or neurodivergent, and/or have experienced trauma through abuse and loss. All of my clients are seeking to cultivate healthy relationships with themselves and others. Our work together aims to heal the wounds that get in the way of that happening.
(408) 752-5298 View (408) 752-5298
Photo of Tamar Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Tamar Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I work with clients who may be navigating issues relating to all facets of identity, relationship challenges, self esteem, and life decisions.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or disconnected in your life, relationships, or career? I work with individuals (youth and adults), couples, and families on a wide array of issues including: Identity exploration; Anxiety and stress management; Relationship dynamics (including romantic, familial, and professional); Self-esteem and personal growth; Parenting decisions and child-rearing; and Navigating life transitions. I also have extensive experience and a particular affinity for working with neurodivergent individuals and families.
I work with clients who may be navigating issues relating to all facets of identity, relationship challenges, self esteem, and life decisions.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or disconnected in your life, relationships, or career? I work with individuals (youth and adults), couples, and families on a wide array of issues including: Identity exploration; Anxiety and stress management; Relationship dynamics (including romantic, familial, and professional); Self-esteem and personal growth; Parenting decisions and child-rearing; and Navigating life transitions. I also have extensive experience and a particular affinity for working with neurodivergent individuals and families.
(510) 694-4184 View (510) 694-4184
Photo of Shannon Knorr, Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Shannon Knorr
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I enjoy in working with; self esteem & worth, trauma healing & recovery, body image & body positivity, disordered eating & relationship to body, belonging as our birthright, transforming deep shame into liberation, body & sex shame, relationships and boundaries, anxiety, stress & hyper-vigilance, nervous system imbalances, life transitions & identity, honoring grief, loss & death, life threatening illness, cancer, auto-immune disease, rites of passage, aging, adolescence, menopause, women's empowerment, highly sensitive people & empaths, people pleasers, intergenerational trauma & ancestral healing, mothering & the mother wound.
I use a holistic, body and soul centered trauma informed approach, using various modalities from Somatic Therapy, Expressive Arts, Hakomi, Dream and Transpersonal Therapy, Internal Family System (Parts Therapy), Humanistic Therapy, Eco-Therapy, Therapeutic Yoga, Mindfulness, & Depth Psychology. I follow your lead and we walk the path together.
I enjoy in working with; self esteem & worth, trauma healing & recovery, body image & body positivity, disordered eating & relationship to body, belonging as our birthright, transforming deep shame into liberation, body & sex shame, relationships and boundaries, anxiety, stress & hyper-vigilance, nervous system imbalances, life transitions & identity, honoring grief, loss & death, life threatening illness, cancer, auto-immune disease, rites of passage, aging, adolescence, menopause, women's empowerment, highly sensitive people & empaths, people pleasers, intergenerational trauma & ancestral healing, mothering & the mother wound.
I use a holistic, body and soul centered trauma informed approach, using various modalities from Somatic Therapy, Expressive Arts, Hakomi, Dream and Transpersonal Therapy, Internal Family System (Parts Therapy), Humanistic Therapy, Eco-Therapy, Therapeutic Yoga, Mindfulness, & Depth Psychology. I follow your lead and we walk the path together.
(510) 983-4457 View (510) 983-4457
Photo of Georgina M. Nunez-Larraz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCHT, MSW
Georgina M. Nunez-Larraz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCHT, MSW
Online Only
Do you secretly feel like you are Not Good Enough? Were you traumatized as a child or did not get enough attention or love and often feel anxious or depressed? Were you teased at school or went through a toxic relation? I understand your pain because I am a survivor who overcame these lingering toxic emotions and thoughts. I can help you also to live a better life without all these stressful emotions and a clear head. The earlier you start healing, the better because Trauma effects relationships, self-esteem, emotions and health to name a few. My name is Georgina. I am a certified trauma and Complex PTSD therapist I can help you
Do you secretly feel like you are Not Good Enough? Were you traumatized as a child or did not get enough attention or love and often feel anxious or depressed? Were you teased at school or went through a toxic relation? I understand your pain because I am a survivor who overcame these lingering toxic emotions and thoughts. I can help you also to live a better life without all these stressful emotions and a clear head. The earlier you start healing, the better because Trauma effects relationships, self-esteem, emotions and health to name a few. My name is Georgina. I am a certified trauma and Complex PTSD therapist I can help you
(510) 277-4420 View (510) 277-4420
Photo of Silvia Ascencio, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Silvia Ascencio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Our first session is a chance for us to connect, to understand your background, and to learn what led you to seek therapy. I want to create a comfortable environment where you feel heard and understood. Starting therapy is a significant step, and I commend you for beginning this journey. My goal is to ensure your experience is meaningful and supportive. I specialize in helping individuals navigate life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My approach is client-centered and collaborative, meaning each session is tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Our first session is a chance for us to connect, to understand your background, and to learn what led you to seek therapy. I want to create a comfortable environment where you feel heard and understood. Starting therapy is a significant step, and I commend you for beginning this journey. My goal is to ensure your experience is meaningful and supportive. I specialize in helping individuals navigate life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My approach is client-centered and collaborative, meaning each session is tailored to your specific needs and goals.
(510) 867-3307 View (510) 867-3307
Photo of Nicole Arkin, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Nicole Arkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I find it important to examine the societal context of individual suffering, particularly themes related to oppression and injustice, and tend to be the most well suited for working with sensitive and creative individuals as well as those who struggle with depression, anxiety, self esteem, loss/grief, pregnancy/postpartum and chronic/ terminal illness.
It isn't difficult to feel scared, vulnerable and not good enough in our complex world, let alone if you have a history of being abused or neglected. Therapy can help you slowly make sense of the past so that you can encounter the present moment with more awareness and vigor. I am psychotherapist with an abiding love of the arts and often work with sensitive and creative individuals, many of whom have histories of abuse/neglect and are struggling to make sense of their past and present lives in order to find a greater sense of freedom/comfort within their own skins.
I find it important to examine the societal context of individual suffering, particularly themes related to oppression and injustice, and tend to be the most well suited for working with sensitive and creative individuals as well as those who struggle with depression, anxiety, self esteem, loss/grief, pregnancy/postpartum and chronic/ terminal illness.
It isn't difficult to feel scared, vulnerable and not good enough in our complex world, let alone if you have a history of being abused or neglected. Therapy can help you slowly make sense of the past so that you can encounter the present moment with more awareness and vigor. I am psychotherapist with an abiding love of the arts and often work with sensitive and creative individuals, many of whom have histories of abuse/neglect and are struggling to make sense of their past and present lives in order to find a greater sense of freedom/comfort within their own skins.
(510) 878-4958 View (510) 878-4958
Photo of Jane Burka, Psychologist, PhD
Jane Burka
Psychologist, PhD
Oakland, CA 94618
Are you worried about self-defeating tendencies? Why do you get in your own way in relationships, at work, in school, or in expressing your inspiration and creativity? We look together at the barriers to success that interfere with productivity and peace of mind. Because I co-authored the top-rated book, "Procrastination: Why You Do It; What To Do About It NOW," (and because it took me six years to complete my dissertation!) I like to help people overcome procrastination and achieve their goals. My other specialities include: grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, depression, writing/editing, and supervision.
Are you worried about self-defeating tendencies? Why do you get in your own way in relationships, at work, in school, or in expressing your inspiration and creativity? We look together at the barriers to success that interfere with productivity and peace of mind. Because I co-authored the top-rated book, "Procrastination: Why You Do It; What To Do About It NOW," (and because it took me six years to complete my dissertation!) I like to help people overcome procrastination and achieve their goals. My other specialities include: grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, depression, writing/editing, and supervision.
(925) 290-8958 View (925) 290-8958
Photo of Dr. Miguel Frank, Psychological Associate, PsyD
Dr. Miguel Frank
Psychological Associate, PsyD
4 Endorsed
Online Only
In a world not created for our comfort or success, the challenges of Black, Latine/a/x, Indigenous, Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI), and People of Color often go unnoticed by others. Are you constantly feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and unable to prioritize yourself? Do you feel as though your relationships are one-sided? Have you experienced microaggressions, felt marginalized, or like an impostor in predominantly White spaces? Are you ready to level up and reclaim your power?
In a world not created for our comfort or success, the challenges of Black, Latine/a/x, Indigenous, Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI), and People of Color often go unnoticed by others. Are you constantly feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and unable to prioritize yourself? Do you feel as though your relationships are one-sided? Have you experienced microaggressions, felt marginalized, or like an impostor in predominantly White spaces? Are you ready to level up and reclaim your power?
(415) 842-4408 View (415) 842-4408
Photo of Toris Adefunmi, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Toris Adefunmi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Master's degree from Alliant International University, and I have been practicing for about 5 years. I provide therapy to adults and couples, those who experience trauma, communication issues, boundaries, unhealthy relationships, and individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and more.
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Master's degree from Alliant International University, and I have been practicing for about 5 years. I provide therapy to adults and couples, those who experience trauma, communication issues, boundaries, unhealthy relationships, and individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and more.
(510) 896-3074 View (510) 896-3074
Photo of Julian Dodd, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Julian Dodd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Interests include: intimacy/attachment issues, substance use and behavioral process addictions, anxiety, depression and self esteem.
I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process between therapist and client, where the relationship is part of the healing process. My style is active, creative, and holistic. I will meet you where you are, not-judging, engaged and curious. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, relationship distress, life transitions, and existential dilemmas (questions about the meaning of life, questions about dying and death). I also have experience working with individuals struggling with dual diagnosis (addiction and mental health issues combined).
Interests include: intimacy/attachment issues, substance use and behavioral process addictions, anxiety, depression and self esteem.
I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process between therapist and client, where the relationship is part of the healing process. My style is active, creative, and holistic. I will meet you where you are, not-judging, engaged and curious. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, relationship distress, life transitions, and existential dilemmas (questions about the meaning of life, questions about dying and death). I also have experience working with individuals struggling with dual diagnosis (addiction and mental health issues combined).
(415) 304-8603 View (415) 304-8603
Photo of Christie Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Christie Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
9 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, and welcome. You may have arrived here because you've done everything the "right way" but that hasn't led to happiness. You wonder, what do people mean when they say "go with the flow"? Or, you can't shake that feeling you've somehow missed important life milestones, and you need a little clarity. I offer warm, empathic engagement in a safe space, where we can assess your needs, comfort level and tolerance to create a plan unique to you.
Hello, and welcome. You may have arrived here because you've done everything the "right way" but that hasn't led to happiness. You wonder, what do people mean when they say "go with the flow"? Or, you can't shake that feeling you've somehow missed important life milestones, and you need a little clarity. I offer warm, empathic engagement in a safe space, where we can assess your needs, comfort level and tolerance to create a plan unique to you.
(510) 939-7329 View (510) 939-7329
Photo of Dr. David Gumpert, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. David Gumpert
Psychologist, PsyD
Oakland, CA 94602
I have worked since 2005 with a variety of clients with depression, stress, men's issues, self esteem, and other life challenges, primarily in community mental health with marginalized and underserved communities.
My Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach focuses primarily on clarifying and centering your deepest values. These values become guiding forces in learning to manage the discomforts that come with the inevitable challenges of living a life full of meaning and purpose. I also approach mental health from a multi-cultural, social justice orientation.
I have worked since 2005 with a variety of clients with depression, stress, men's issues, self esteem, and other life challenges, primarily in community mental health with marginalized and underserved communities.
My Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach focuses primarily on clarifying and centering your deepest values. These values become guiding forces in learning to manage the discomforts that come with the inevitable challenges of living a life full of meaning and purpose. I also approach mental health from a multi-cultural, social justice orientation.
(510) 800-4378 View (510) 800-4378
Photo of Jessica Youseffi, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jessica Youseffi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
26 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Are you ready to get unstuck from the repetitive habits and thought patterns plaguing you? My compassionate and mindfulness-based approach can help you reshape the way you think and realign your actions with your core values. Through developing greater awareness you can let go of limiting stories, feel more confident in your own skin, and discover new ways of moving through the world.
Are you ready to get unstuck from the repetitive habits and thought patterns plaguing you? My compassionate and mindfulness-based approach can help you reshape the way you think and realign your actions with your core values. Through developing greater awareness you can let go of limiting stories, feel more confident in your own skin, and discover new ways of moving through the world.
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Photo of Ni Zhang, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, Ni Zhang, MA, AMFT
Ni Zhang
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, Ni Zhang, MA, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Ni. I am a Somatic and EMDR therapist specializing in working with individuals who have experienced emotional neglect, as well as those seeking to build a stronger sense of self-identity. I also use the Gottman method when working with couples, helping them establish more effective communication, find ways to support each other, and discover the meaning of their marriage. Whether you're looking to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, learn new coping strategies, or simply find a safe space to process your emotions, I'm here to support you on your journey.
Hi, I'm Ni. I am a Somatic and EMDR therapist specializing in working with individuals who have experienced emotional neglect, as well as those seeking to build a stronger sense of self-identity. I also use the Gottman method when working with couples, helping them establish more effective communication, find ways to support each other, and discover the meaning of their marriage. Whether you're looking to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, learn new coping strategies, or simply find a safe space to process your emotions, I'm here to support you on your journey.
(510) 359-7917 View (510) 359-7917
Photo of Larisa Blum, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, JD, CMT-SE
Larisa Blum
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, JD, CMT-SE
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I am a somatic therapist who focuses on relational, attachment and childhood trauma issues. I work with individuals and couples to address relationship ambivalence, anxiety, major life transition, depression, stuckness, poor communication and conflict, among other issues. I help with building awareness of one's thoughts, feelings and physical sensations to develop greater insight and uncover new choices.
I am a somatic therapist who focuses on relational, attachment and childhood trauma issues. I work with individuals and couples to address relationship ambivalence, anxiety, major life transition, depression, stuckness, poor communication and conflict, among other issues. I help with building awareness of one's thoughts, feelings and physical sensations to develop greater insight and uncover new choices.
(510) 924-0161 View (510) 924-0161
Photo of Liz Tong, Marriage & Family Therapist, MPH, LMFT
Liz Tong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MPH, LMFT
Oakland, CA 94612
My style of therapy is warm, attentive, & engaged. I believe we all need to be heard, understood & truly seen for who we are; for this is where a sense of self-trust can deepen & self-esteem can strengthen. One of my goals is to help you feel less burdened & less alone in your struggles and also provide coping strategies when you are feeling overwhelmed. I honor the uniqueness of each individual & work in a way that meets your current needs (whether you are moving through a crisis situation, having relationship issues, needing help managing anxiety & depression, or healing from trauma).
My style of therapy is warm, attentive, & engaged. I believe we all need to be heard, understood & truly seen for who we are; for this is where a sense of self-trust can deepen & self-esteem can strengthen. One of my goals is to help you feel less burdened & less alone in your struggles and also provide coping strategies when you are feeling overwhelmed. I honor the uniqueness of each individual & work in a way that meets your current needs (whether you are moving through a crisis situation, having relationship issues, needing help managing anxiety & depression, or healing from trauma).
(415) 969-3459 View (415) 969-3459
Photo of Sukhpreet Kaur, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Sukhpreet Kaur
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Oakland, CA 94610
Welcome! My name is Sukhpreet Kaur, and I am a first generation American. I believe that we are the key to our own healing, therefore it is important to me to hold a space for you that is safe, collaborate, and empowering for healing and exploration.
Welcome! My name is Sukhpreet Kaur, and I am a first generation American. I believe that we are the key to our own healing, therefore it is important to me to hold a space for you that is safe, collaborate, and empowering for healing and exploration.
(510) 892-4399 View (510) 892-4399
Photo of Jessica Libbey, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Jessica Libbey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Do you struggle with negative self-talk, confidence, difficult emotions or interpersonal relationships? Are you a parent whose child struggles with anxiety, intense emotions or behavioral issues and you're ready to seek help for them (and you)? If any of these are true, I may be able to help. I work with individual adults, as well as with children (and their parents) who are struggling with these issues. I can help you explore patterns, process difficult emotions and traumatic experiences, learn new skills, develop better communication and build healthier relationships.
Do you struggle with negative self-talk, confidence, difficult emotions or interpersonal relationships? Are you a parent whose child struggles with anxiety, intense emotions or behavioral issues and you're ready to seek help for them (and you)? If any of these are true, I may be able to help. I work with individual adults, as well as with children (and their parents) who are struggling with these issues. I can help you explore patterns, process difficult emotions and traumatic experiences, learn new skills, develop better communication and build healthier relationships.
(510) 953-4749 View (510) 953-4749
Photo of Maggie Tysor, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Maggie Tysor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with women seeking secure attachment and a deeper connection with themselves and others. My clients are often looking for support with emotional dysregulation, self-doubt, or boundary-setting and are ready to transform these challenges into opportunities for growth. Together, we’ll build emotional resilience, confidence, and the ability to express needs and desires clearly. We will focus on creating joy, ease, and energetic sustainability while aligning choices with your core values to foster a life that feels expansive, authentic, and deeply fulfilling.
I work with women seeking secure attachment and a deeper connection with themselves and others. My clients are often looking for support with emotional dysregulation, self-doubt, or boundary-setting and are ready to transform these challenges into opportunities for growth. Together, we’ll build emotional resilience, confidence, and the ability to express needs and desires clearly. We will focus on creating joy, ease, and energetic sustainability while aligning choices with your core values to foster a life that feels expansive, authentic, and deeply fulfilling.
(619) 612-0925 View (619) 612-0925

See more therapy options for Oakland

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.