Self Esteem Therapists in San Diego, CA
My specialties include LGBTQ+ Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Self-Esteem and Trauma.
Hi! I'm Alexis, a queer, multiracial, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Trauma-Informed Yoga Teacher with a passion for empowering and walking alongside others who are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community on their life journey. My goal is to provide a safe space for the individuals I work with to explore their many identities as well as empower my clients to be their most true and unique selves. My approach to therapy is client centered and led. I believe the greatest gift of therapy is in the therapeutic connection formed between the client and the therapist and I work to create a safe, welcoming and affirming space.
My specialties include LGBTQ+ Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Self-Esteem and Trauma.
Hi! I'm Alexis, a queer, multiracial, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Trauma-Informed Yoga Teacher with a passion for empowering and walking alongside others who are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community on their life journey. My goal is to provide a safe space for the individuals I work with to explore their many identities as well as empower my clients to be their most true and unique selves. My approach to therapy is client centered and led. I believe the greatest gift of therapy is in the therapeutic connection formed between the client and the therapist and I work to create a safe, welcoming and affirming space.
Most people come to me because talking hasn’t been enough. They’re tired of overthinking, tired of feeling like something’s off, and they want to actually feel different—not just understand things better. I use hypnotherapy and Brainspotting to work with the deeper parts of the mind where real change happens. This isn’t about quick fixes or reliving trauma—it’s about helping your system finally let go of what it’s been holding onto. I keep things honest, direct, and grounded. If that’s what you’re looking for, we’ll probably work well together.
Most people come to me because talking hasn’t been enough. They’re tired of overthinking, tired of feeling like something’s off, and they want to actually feel different—not just understand things better. I use hypnotherapy and Brainspotting to work with the deeper parts of the mind where real change happens. This isn’t about quick fixes or reliving trauma—it’s about helping your system finally let go of what it’s been holding onto. I keep things honest, direct, and grounded. If that’s what you’re looking for, we’ll probably work well together.
Are you experiencing emotional and physical problems that seem unmanageable? Life can be challenging when you've endured mental and physical stressors. Know that you are not alone. Together we will create the step-by-step tools needed to heal yourself and take back your life. My holistic nontraditional treatment will get you there. And it works faster than conventional counseling. Without judgment and through empathy you can process life events that are overwhelming. In our journey together my goal is that you will learn how to develop a more peaceful and fulfilling life and create a deeper connection to your genuine self.
Are you experiencing emotional and physical problems that seem unmanageable? Life can be challenging when you've endured mental and physical stressors. Know that you are not alone. Together we will create the step-by-step tools needed to heal yourself and take back your life. My holistic nontraditional treatment will get you there. And it works faster than conventional counseling. Without judgment and through empathy you can process life events that are overwhelming. In our journey together my goal is that you will learn how to develop a more peaceful and fulfilling life and create a deeper connection to your genuine self.
When paired with struggles around identity, belonging, or self-esteem, it’s easy to feel like you’re always performing, never quite at ease.
I earned my MA in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Integral Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies in 2021. What continues to inspire me is the deep connection that forms in this work—the opportunity to witness people coming home to themselves, one moment at a time.
When paired with struggles around identity, belonging, or self-esteem, it’s easy to feel like you’re always performing, never quite at ease.
I earned my MA in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Integral Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies in 2021. What continues to inspire me is the deep connection that forms in this work—the opportunity to witness people coming home to themselves, one moment at a time.
Hi, I’m Sarah - a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Alternative Healing Arts Practitioner who is devoted to supporting individual and collective healing. I offer an innovative approach that fuses traditional psychotherapy with psychedelics & energetics, stemming from the recognition that we are consciousness and energy beings. We won’t just talk about your problems, my mission is to support you in accessing and addressing the energetic, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of your struggles. These cannot be changed by the level of the thinking mind, we must go deeper.
Hi, I’m Sarah - a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Alternative Healing Arts Practitioner who is devoted to supporting individual and collective healing. I offer an innovative approach that fuses traditional psychotherapy with psychedelics & energetics, stemming from the recognition that we are consciousness and energy beings. We won’t just talk about your problems, my mission is to support you in accessing and addressing the energetic, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of your struggles. These cannot be changed by the level of the thinking mind, we must go deeper.
Breanne Ferrara - Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
I support people with self-esteem, LGBTQ+ identity, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My training & education is in psychedelic assisted therapy, expressive arts, and yoga. I offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for CA residents in person & online. Plant medicine and psychedelics are growing in popularity. I study ancient wisdom and modern science so people can alter their consciousness safely and with intention.
I support people with self-esteem, LGBTQ+ identity, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My training & education is in psychedelic assisted therapy, expressive arts, and yoga. I offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for CA residents in person & online. Plant medicine and psychedelics are growing in popularity. I study ancient wisdom and modern science so people can alter their consciousness safely and with intention.
Do you get frustrated when you just can't let go of things that happened in the past? Are you realizing that the "stories" you keep telling yourself are getting in the way of finding happiness in your life? Are you stuck in a relationship that is just not working? Or are you a couple who is looking for help to break through long-standing blocks that have challenged the love you felt for each other when you first got together? Working with a compassionate therapist who understands how to help you let go of the past can dramatically change your life.
Do you get frustrated when you just can't let go of things that happened in the past? Are you realizing that the "stories" you keep telling yourself are getting in the way of finding happiness in your life? Are you stuck in a relationship that is just not working? Or are you a couple who is looking for help to break through long-standing blocks that have challenged the love you felt for each other when you first got together? Working with a compassionate therapist who understands how to help you let go of the past can dramatically change your life.
Does your self esteem need a boost?
I have trainings and experience using various modalities and interventions such as TFCBT, Solution Focused and Mindfulness. I have over 6 licensed years of experience and over 16 years experience working in this field. I enjoy working with teens, individuals, couples, caregivers and families to improve communication and restore relationships.
Does your self esteem need a boost?
I have trainings and experience using various modalities and interventions such as TFCBT, Solution Focused and Mindfulness. I have over 6 licensed years of experience and over 16 years experience working in this field. I enjoy working with teens, individuals, couples, caregivers and families to improve communication and restore relationships.
Mood Disorders, Women's Issues, and low Self-Esteem can deeply impact how you see yourself and interact with the world.
I use an integrative approach, blending CBT, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing. Together, we’ll explore patterns of thought and behavior, cultivate presence, and foster self-motivation. Each session is tailored to your unique needs, ensuring a supportive and effective process.
Mood Disorders, Women's Issues, and low Self-Esteem can deeply impact how you see yourself and interact with the world.
I use an integrative approach, blending CBT, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing. Together, we’ll explore patterns of thought and behavior, cultivate presence, and foster self-motivation. Each session is tailored to your unique needs, ensuring a supportive and effective process.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 33 years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s transitions, challenges, and emotional stressors. I specialize in supporting clients facing anxiety, depression, and major life changes. I take a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy, creating a safe and supportive environment where you can be yourself. My goal is to help you feel seen, understood, and empowered to make meaningful progress in your healing journey.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 33 years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s transitions, challenges, and emotional stressors. I specialize in supporting clients facing anxiety, depression, and major life changes. I take a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy, creating a safe and supportive environment where you can be yourself. My goal is to help you feel seen, understood, and empowered to make meaningful progress in your healing journey.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and owner of a practice called United Performance Consulting (UPC) Sports Psychology. My current mission is focused on assisting high school and college student athletes to develop the skills to perform at their best in all areas of life. The process begins with assessment and identification of goals and opportunities for growth and change. Next, we work together to meet these goals using a combination of mental performance training, sports psychology and clinical psychology services that lead to behavior change and greater success.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and owner of a practice called United Performance Consulting (UPC) Sports Psychology. My current mission is focused on assisting high school and college student athletes to develop the skills to perform at their best in all areas of life. The process begins with assessment and identification of goals and opportunities for growth and change. Next, we work together to meet these goals using a combination of mental performance training, sports psychology and clinical psychology services that lead to behavior change and greater success.
You’ve always been there for others, but giving yourself the same care feels harder. Maybe you say yes when you want to say no, feel guilty setting limits, or wonder if your needs really matter. You might be used to overfunctioning—taking on too much, striving to do everything right, or worrying how others will see you. You’ve been holding it all together but feel stretched thin, disconnected, or unsure who you are beyond everyone else’s expectations. You want to feel grounded, confident, and at ease—to trust yourself again and make space for what truly matters. Therapy can help you release old patterns and feel more like you.
You’ve always been there for others, but giving yourself the same care feels harder. Maybe you say yes when you want to say no, feel guilty setting limits, or wonder if your needs really matter. You might be used to overfunctioning—taking on too much, striving to do everything right, or worrying how others will see you. You’ve been holding it all together but feel stretched thin, disconnected, or unsure who you are beyond everyone else’s expectations. You want to feel grounded, confident, and at ease—to trust yourself again and make space for what truly matters. Therapy can help you release old patterns and feel more like you.
I bring over 40 years of experience in working with individual clients and families through life crisis and transitions. Areas of specialty are: loss, bereavement, chronic/acute illness, pregnancy/childbirth, parenting, and relationships. Health care professionals and nurses are an area of specialty with the unique challenges they face resulting in compassion fatigue, burnout and moral distress. Finding ways to achieve life work balance and self-care are essential to their well being and the ability to continue in their work as a helping profession.
I bring over 40 years of experience in working with individual clients and families through life crisis and transitions. Areas of specialty are: loss, bereavement, chronic/acute illness, pregnancy/childbirth, parenting, and relationships. Health care professionals and nurses are an area of specialty with the unique challenges they face resulting in compassion fatigue, burnout and moral distress. Finding ways to achieve life work balance and self-care are essential to their well being and the ability to continue in their work as a helping profession.
Feeling like you’re just “faking it” can be exhausting, leaving you constantly second-guessing your abilities and struggling to feel good enough. Past trauma or years of self-doubt may have planted deep patterns of overthinking, people-pleasing, or perfectionism that feel impossible to shake. I earned my MSW from Loyola University Chicago in 2017, and my approach is shaped by my own witnessing of the healing power of movement and attuned care. I continue to be inspired by my clients’ bravery and honesty in showing up for themselves.
Feeling like you’re just “faking it” can be exhausting, leaving you constantly second-guessing your abilities and struggling to feel good enough. Past trauma or years of self-doubt may have planted deep patterns of overthinking, people-pleasing, or perfectionism that feel impossible to shake. I earned my MSW from Loyola University Chicago in 2017, and my approach is shaped by my own witnessing of the healing power of movement and attuned care. I continue to be inspired by my clients’ bravery and honesty in showing up for themselves.
I support clients navigating stress management, life transitions, self-esteem, confidence, and mental wellness.
Feeling tired, restless, unmotivated, or frustrated with life? I’m here to help you find more peace, joy, love, and confidence. Therapy can be a space where you reconnect with your true, authentic self. I guide clients toward that meeting place in a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and safe environment. My approach values your unique identities, culture, and lived experiences.
I support clients navigating stress management, life transitions, self-esteem, confidence, and mental wellness.
Feeling tired, restless, unmotivated, or frustrated with life? I’m here to help you find more peace, joy, love, and confidence. Therapy can be a space where you reconnect with your true, authentic self. I guide clients toward that meeting place in a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and safe environment. My approach values your unique identities, culture, and lived experiences.
James Staunton, LMFT – Marriage and Family Therapist
(Please note: Although the title includes “Marriage and Family,” MFTs are fully trained to work with individuals as well.)
I specialize in working with adults who are ready to explore unresolved issues from childhood or early adulthood—patterns that may still be shaping your relationships, emotions, or self-perception. You may be feeling stuck or simply want to better understand yourself and your life on a deeper level.
James Staunton, LMFT – Marriage and Family Therapist
(Please note: Although the title includes “Marriage and Family,” MFTs are fully trained to work with individuals as well.)
I specialize in working with adults who are ready to explore unresolved issues from childhood or early adulthood—patterns that may still be shaping your relationships, emotions, or self-perception. You may be feeling stuck or simply want to better understand yourself and your life on a deeper level.
Congrats on taking the first step, or continuing, on your personal wellness journey. Only by taking the time to explore your inner-workings, can we begin to identify and eradicate what doesn’t work by developing strategies & moving towards what does, allowing a healthy authentic adult version of you to emerge. As a licensed clinical social worker, I take a humanistic perspective, utilizing both psychodynamic and holistic approaches to support my clients moving toward their valued direction.
Congrats on taking the first step, or continuing, on your personal wellness journey. Only by taking the time to explore your inner-workings, can we begin to identify and eradicate what doesn’t work by developing strategies & moving towards what does, allowing a healthy authentic adult version of you to emerge. As a licensed clinical social worker, I take a humanistic perspective, utilizing both psychodynamic and holistic approaches to support my clients moving toward their valued direction.
I have sat beside numerous clients in crisis, whether due to substance use, suicidal ideation, a loss of self-worth, or trauma.
Finding and embracing an authentic self is a core mission of adult life. What too often corrupts this search, though, is the phenomenon of shame - a destructive force if there ever was one. Shame can contribute to substance use, depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles, poor health outcomes, maladaptive trauma responses, and, at extremes, psychosis and suicidal ideation. Such maladies, when approached in the context of a compassionate and trusting therapeutic relationship, can be transformed into signs pointing the way toward a meaningful and fulfilling sense of self.
I have sat beside numerous clients in crisis, whether due to substance use, suicidal ideation, a loss of self-worth, or trauma.
Finding and embracing an authentic self is a core mission of adult life. What too often corrupts this search, though, is the phenomenon of shame - a destructive force if there ever was one. Shame can contribute to substance use, depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles, poor health outcomes, maladaptive trauma responses, and, at extremes, psychosis and suicidal ideation. Such maladies, when approached in the context of a compassionate and trusting therapeutic relationship, can be transformed into signs pointing the way toward a meaningful and fulfilling sense of self.
It would be an honor to guide you in becoming aware and to watch as you enjoy the fruits of empowered communication, relationships you find fulfilling, and a newly realized acceptance of 'self' as grounded in true personal integrity and genuine self-esteem.
You might be someone who feels emotionally isolated or misunderstood, wants more ease, spontaneity, and trust in your relationships, or has patterns of putting others first or self-sabotaging connection. You might also be someone who is navigating major life shifts (such as grief & loss, a breakup, or a career change), has tried therapy before but has yet to achieve lasting change, or who, despite your best efforts, feels discouraged in your ability to make change. It is my passion to assist you in becoming unstuck in ways that feel empowering and aligned with your most authentic self and sense of personal integrity.
It would be an honor to guide you in becoming aware and to watch as you enjoy the fruits of empowered communication, relationships you find fulfilling, and a newly realized acceptance of 'self' as grounded in true personal integrity and genuine self-esteem.
You might be someone who feels emotionally isolated or misunderstood, wants more ease, spontaneity, and trust in your relationships, or has patterns of putting others first or self-sabotaging connection. You might also be someone who is navigating major life shifts (such as grief & loss, a breakup, or a career change), has tried therapy before but has yet to achieve lasting change, or who, despite your best efforts, feels discouraged in your ability to make change. It is my passion to assist you in becoming unstuck in ways that feel empowering and aligned with your most authentic self and sense of personal integrity.
Together, we can be in better understanding of how you've come to story your life - challenging the limiting influence of messages that sound like "what should be" and "what's supposed to be" - and come into more preferred ways of being. I am guided to support you through sex and gender issues, identity development across different contexts like age and culture, relationship problems, and life transitions by my own experiences in the identities I hold as a queer, 1st generation Filipino-American as well as my training and values as a therapist. We may encounter difficult moments together, but I'll be with you every step of the way!
Together, we can be in better understanding of how you've come to story your life - challenging the limiting influence of messages that sound like "what should be" and "what's supposed to be" - and come into more preferred ways of being. I am guided to support you through sex and gender issues, identity development across different contexts like age and culture, relationship problems, and life transitions by my own experiences in the identities I hold as a queer, 1st generation Filipino-American as well as my training and values as a therapist. We may encounter difficult moments together, but I'll be with you every step of the way!
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Self Esteem Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Bonita
- Chula Vista
- Coronado
- El Cajon
- Imperial Beach
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Lemon Grove
- National City
- San Ysidro
- Santee
- Spring Valley
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.