Self Esteem Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Aalanah Peoples, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Aalanah Peoples
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Chicago, IL 60613
I utilize Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, NET, Gottman, and other therapeutic techniques to address anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, life transitions, work related stressors, relationship issues, etc.
My personal approach to treating clients will always be laced with good will, humor, openness, and collaboration. Just as there are a range of people with different personalities and different challenges, there is a range of therapeutic approaches I will utilize that best suits you and your needs. In my experience, therapy is a fresh oasis for you to digest, express, and confront obstacles while enhancing your quality of life. I do not believe that therapy is a one size fits all or linear process. Therapy is a collaborative experience that develops a variety of skills for the client to build fulfillment, confidence, and joy.
I utilize Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, NET, Gottman, and other therapeutic techniques to address anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, life transitions, work related stressors, relationship issues, etc.
My personal approach to treating clients will always be laced with good will, humor, openness, and collaboration. Just as there are a range of people with different personalities and different challenges, there is a range of therapeutic approaches I will utilize that best suits you and your needs. In my experience, therapy is a fresh oasis for you to digest, express, and confront obstacles while enhancing your quality of life. I do not believe that therapy is a one size fits all or linear process. Therapy is a collaborative experience that develops a variety of skills for the client to build fulfillment, confidence, and joy.
(773) 923-3744 View (773) 923-3744
Photo of Samantha Perry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Samantha Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Many of my clients are working through identity related concerns, low self esteem, religious deconstruction, or eating disorders
I became a therapist because I believe that change is always possible, and that humans have an inherent ability to heal and transform when they feel safe, heard, and connected. I understand that sometimes patterns of thinking, difficult emotions, or past circumstances feel like they pull us away from living life fully. In session, I will work with you to identify your strengths, increase self-compassion, create safety in your body, and expand your capacity to respond in the face of life’s difficult moments. I'm also a big believer in the power of humor, and encourage you to bring your full selves into our work together.
Many of my clients are working through identity related concerns, low self esteem, religious deconstruction, or eating disorders
I became a therapist because I believe that change is always possible, and that humans have an inherent ability to heal and transform when they feel safe, heard, and connected. I understand that sometimes patterns of thinking, difficult emotions, or past circumstances feel like they pull us away from living life fully. In session, I will work with you to identify your strengths, increase self-compassion, create safety in your body, and expand your capacity to respond in the face of life’s difficult moments. I'm also a big believer in the power of humor, and encourage you to bring your full selves into our work together.
(872) 278-5088 x2 View (872) 278-5088 x2
Photo of Keren Diaz de Leon, MA
Keren Diaz de Leon
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
Whether you’re facing relationship struggles, pressures, grief, or the impact of past trauma, I offer a warm space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. I work with adults, children, teens, and families who are navigating anxiety, stress, trauma, transitions, parenting challenges, or identity & belonging issues.
Whether you’re facing relationship struggles, pressures, grief, or the impact of past trauma, I offer a warm space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. I work with adults, children, teens, and families who are navigating anxiety, stress, trauma, transitions, parenting challenges, or identity & belonging issues.
(708) 286-5986 View (708) 286-5986
Photo of Min Hsuan [Michelle] Lin, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Min Hsuan [Michelle] Lin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Chicago, IL 60603
In therapy, I hold a space for you that creates safety, embraces the freedom to be yourself, and nurtures introspection. At times, life feels breathless. We are trapped in the system, relationship, or our mind. It can feel lonely not to be heard and understood. I believe psychotherapy to be a vessel for these sufferings, emotions, and the unsaid to be seen, allowing us to gain deeper insights into the meaning of life. Over time, the therapeutic relationship accompanies us in reclaiming the freedom to be our authentic selves and experience hope.
In therapy, I hold a space for you that creates safety, embraces the freedom to be yourself, and nurtures introspection. At times, life feels breathless. We are trapped in the system, relationship, or our mind. It can feel lonely not to be heard and understood. I believe psychotherapy to be a vessel for these sufferings, emotions, and the unsaid to be seen, allowing us to gain deeper insights into the meaning of life. Over time, the therapeutic relationship accompanies us in reclaiming the freedom to be our authentic selves and experience hope.
(847) 307-7108 View (847) 307-7108
Photo of Ryan Watters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Ryan Watters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
I aim to meet every client where they are at, regardless of their circumstances. I work with people who struggle with substance use, depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, or any other topics that may be presenting issues in their life. My approach is to help you understand and identify what things may be causing you difficulties in your life, while simultaneously eliciting the motivation that already lies within you to make the necessary changes in your life. I have experience working in grief & loss counseling, and as a CADC, my primary area of expertise is in the field of substance use.
I aim to meet every client where they are at, regardless of their circumstances. I work with people who struggle with substance use, depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, or any other topics that may be presenting issues in their life. My approach is to help you understand and identify what things may be causing you difficulties in your life, while simultaneously eliciting the motivation that already lies within you to make the necessary changes in your life. I have experience working in grief & loss counseling, and as a CADC, my primary area of expertise is in the field of substance use.
(815) 647-0813 View (815) 647-0813
Photo of Jessica C Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jessica C Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I enjoy working with individuals navigating life’s challenges—anxiety, ADHD, depression, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, or difficulties at work, school, or home.
I’ve had the privilege of working with people across the lifespan in therapy and hospital settings. Many have faced crisis situations, depression, anxiety, trauma, and family or relationship issues. My approach is laid back, open-minded, respectful, and kind.
I enjoy working with individuals navigating life’s challenges—anxiety, ADHD, depression, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, or difficulties at work, school, or home.
I’ve had the privilege of working with people across the lifespan in therapy and hospital settings. Many have faced crisis situations, depression, anxiety, trauma, and family or relationship issues. My approach is laid back, open-minded, respectful, and kind.
(773) 839-6603 View (773) 839-6603
Photo of Howard G Kaplan, Psychologist, PhD
Howard G Kaplan
Psychologist, PhD
Chicago, IL 60640
I am a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor with over 30 years of experience. I work with diverse individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I am a caring and dedicated therapist who often goes the extra mile when it will assist a client. I highly value creative and artistic expression, and I help my clients tap into their strengths and passions. Clients I work with especially well are curious, introspective, willing to dig deep, and interested in becoming more compassionate towards themselves and others. They aren't afraid to look at their feelings in the here-and-now of the therapeutic relationship.
I am a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor with over 30 years of experience. I work with diverse individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I am a caring and dedicated therapist who often goes the extra mile when it will assist a client. I highly value creative and artistic expression, and I help my clients tap into their strengths and passions. Clients I work with especially well are curious, introspective, willing to dig deep, and interested in becoming more compassionate towards themselves and others. They aren't afraid to look at their feelings in the here-and-now of the therapeutic relationship.
(408) 418-2615 x111 View (408) 418-2615 x111
Photo of Chandan R. Bhagia, Psychologist, PsyD
Chandan R. Bhagia
Psychologist, PsyD
13 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I am passionate about working with clients who struggle with low self-worth and a lack of self-compassion.
My approach to therapy is informed by mindfulness practices, focused on assisting my clients in "opening up" to the present moment while connecting to their values to strive toward their "Best Self!" I focus on assisting clients in attending to their relational concerns, which allows for them to overcome the emotional distress associated with a history of difficult and painful relationships. I find that it is my duty to establish a safe space where clients feel truly understood. In doing so, I feel honored to be able to "BE" with my clients, as they strive toward growth and empowerment.
I am passionate about working with clients who struggle with low self-worth and a lack of self-compassion.
My approach to therapy is informed by mindfulness practices, focused on assisting my clients in "opening up" to the present moment while connecting to their values to strive toward their "Best Self!" I focus on assisting clients in attending to their relational concerns, which allows for them to overcome the emotional distress associated with a history of difficult and painful relationships. I find that it is my duty to establish a safe space where clients feel truly understood. In doing so, I feel honored to be able to "BE" with my clients, as they strive toward growth and empowerment.
(312) 874-5025 View (312) 874-5025
Photo of Sarah Haskins, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Sarah Haskins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Are you seeking meaningful change and healing in your life? Whether you’re struggling with grief or feeling overwhelmed by life transitions, I’m here to help. I offer more than just a listening ear, I provide practical tools to facilitate profound transformation. I have a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Chicago State University. I work under the guidance of an LCSW supervisor. I utilize narrative and existential frameworks to help you build awareness and understanding of your own thoughts and emotions.
Are you seeking meaningful change and healing in your life? Whether you’re struggling with grief or feeling overwhelmed by life transitions, I’m here to help. I offer more than just a listening ear, I provide practical tools to facilitate profound transformation. I have a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Chicago State University. I work under the guidance of an LCSW supervisor. I utilize narrative and existential frameworks to help you build awareness and understanding of your own thoughts and emotions.
(872) 239-3978 View (872) 239-3978
Photo of Zaire Griffin, Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Zaire Griffin
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I work with populations that are going through transitions. Whether you are a teen starting a new school; a family going through a new phase of life; a person questioning your identity, or even if you are looking to transition careers, I am here to help you see the best version of yourself come to a reality. As a therapist, I assist people in gaining the confidence to overcome personal obstacles, lessen emotional loads, and provide the tools needed to improve their connection to themselves and their world.
I work with populations that are going through transitions. Whether you are a teen starting a new school; a family going through a new phase of life; a person questioning your identity, or even if you are looking to transition careers, I am here to help you see the best version of yourself come to a reality. As a therapist, I assist people in gaining the confidence to overcome personal obstacles, lessen emotional loads, and provide the tools needed to improve their connection to themselves and their world.
(312) 900-8467 View (312) 900-8467
Photo of Jasmine Gaddy, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA , QMHP
Jasmine Gaddy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA , QMHP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical areas of focus are working with adolescents, behavioral issues, childhood trauma, intergenerational trauma/PTSD, anxiety/depressive disorder, self-esteem, men and women issues, infidelity, premarital counseling, grief, stress, communities of color, oppression, mindfulness, self-care, shadow work, and grounding.
We face many obstacles in life, but our most significant accomplishment is finding peace during our storms. Our most notable achievement is recognizing that there is always room to grow and improve and be better than where we were the day before. As we live our daily lives, I aim to help people identify their strengths and superpowers to help them overcome the many obstacles and barriers. My duty is to ensure that there is always a safe space with my clients so that clients can always feel safe while welcoming laughter and humor.
My clinical areas of focus are working with adolescents, behavioral issues, childhood trauma, intergenerational trauma/PTSD, anxiety/depressive disorder, self-esteem, men and women issues, infidelity, premarital counseling, grief, stress, communities of color, oppression, mindfulness, self-care, shadow work, and grounding.
We face many obstacles in life, but our most significant accomplishment is finding peace during our storms. Our most notable achievement is recognizing that there is always room to grow and improve and be better than where we were the day before. As we live our daily lives, I aim to help people identify their strengths and superpowers to help them overcome the many obstacles and barriers. My duty is to ensure that there is always a safe space with my clients so that clients can always feel safe while welcoming laughter and humor.
(708) 905-8908 View (708) 905-8908
Photo of Cassidy Karlin, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cassidy Karlin
Pre-Licensed Professional
Chicago, IL 60657
I support clients navigating trauma, life transitions, anxiety, and self-esteem.
Hi there! I’m Cassidy, a pre-licensed therapist at Luminary Solutions! I practice from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach, which helps clients understand and build relationships with the different parts of themselves. All parts are welcome in our work together. I aim to create a warm, nonjudgmental space that balances compassion with honesty and humor. Therapy with me is collaborative and centered on supporting growth, self-understanding, and emotional regulation.
I support clients navigating trauma, life transitions, anxiety, and self-esteem.
Hi there! I’m Cassidy, a pre-licensed therapist at Luminary Solutions! I practice from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach, which helps clients understand and build relationships with the different parts of themselves. All parts are welcome in our work together. I aim to create a warm, nonjudgmental space that balances compassion with honesty and humor. Therapy with me is collaborative and centered on supporting growth, self-understanding, and emotional regulation.
(773) 923-1042 View (773) 923-1042
Photo of Hallie Schwartz, Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Hallie Schwartz
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Online Only
I strongly believe that every human being has innate inner strength and leadership. My goal is to help you fully realize your own internal resources. My approach is non-pathologizing and largely influenced by the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model. IFS therapy deeply honors all parts of you and provides a framework to safely explore the nuances of complex experiences. Together, we can embrace the natural multiplicity of the mind and gain insight into the functioning of your internal world. Our work will help you identify your inner parts, uncover their valuable qualities, and address harmful patterns of self-protection.
I strongly believe that every human being has innate inner strength and leadership. My goal is to help you fully realize your own internal resources. My approach is non-pathologizing and largely influenced by the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model. IFS therapy deeply honors all parts of you and provides a framework to safely explore the nuances of complex experiences. Together, we can embrace the natural multiplicity of the mind and gain insight into the functioning of your internal world. Our work will help you identify your inner parts, uncover their valuable qualities, and address harmful patterns of self-protection.
(312) 667-7452 View (312) 667-7452
Photo of Sydney Shillinglaw, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Sydney Shillinglaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I am a passionate psychotherapist, deeply committed to helping individuals strengthen the connection to their inner selves. I believe this can facilitate an increase of confidence in oneself and their abilities. I approach every session with curiosity and excitement. I recognize that each person is the expert on their own life and experiences and work to incorporate that into sessions.
I am a passionate psychotherapist, deeply committed to helping individuals strengthen the connection to their inner selves. I believe this can facilitate an increase of confidence in oneself and their abilities. I approach every session with curiosity and excitement. I recognize that each person is the expert on their own life and experiences and work to incorporate that into sessions.
(217) 635-3750 x18 View (217) 635-3750 x18
Photo of Corinne Bloom, Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Corinne Bloom
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60654
I hold the firm belief that therapy should be tailored to your unique needs and experiences. I’m here to listen attentively, while offering direct feedback and identifying practical steps to work towards your goals. I draw upon a variety of evidence-based modalities to help my clients navigate life's challenges and make positive changes in their lives. I take an integrative clinical approach tailored to your specific needs, utilizing evidence-based modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
I hold the firm belief that therapy should be tailored to your unique needs and experiences. I’m here to listen attentively, while offering direct feedback and identifying practical steps to work towards your goals. I draw upon a variety of evidence-based modalities to help my clients navigate life's challenges and make positive changes in their lives. I take an integrative clinical approach tailored to your specific needs, utilizing evidence-based modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
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Photo of Rachel Miller - Hold the Vision Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hold the Vision Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist
Online Only
We can help you improve your relationships, discover your self-worth, or clarify your vision for the future.
Are you feeling disconnected from your partner(s)? Or from yourself? Do you and your partner(s) have the same arguments over and over again? Has the conflict in your relationship(s) escalated recently? We can help. If a big life transition is creating new challenges in your relationships or you're having trouble adjusting, you don't have to navigate it alone. And there's hope if you've lost your either your confidence or your belief in your own worthiness leaving you doubting you'll ever have the life and relationships you yearn for.
We can help you improve your relationships, discover your self-worth, or clarify your vision for the future.
Are you feeling disconnected from your partner(s)? Or from yourself? Do you and your partner(s) have the same arguments over and over again? Has the conflict in your relationship(s) escalated recently? We can help. If a big life transition is creating new challenges in your relationships or you're having trouble adjusting, you don't have to navigate it alone. And there's hope if you've lost your either your confidence or your belief in your own worthiness leaving you doubting you'll ever have the life and relationships you yearn for.
(312) 584-3081 View (312) 584-3081
Photo of Wendy L Manto, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Wendy L Manto
Counselor, MA, LCPC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I have close to 20 years of experience working with children and adults and enjoy helping individuals with issues including self-esteem, relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, life transitions and identity.
Additionally, I have over six years of experience working with developmentally delayed adults and special needs children and welcome work with these special populations.
I have close to 20 years of experience working with children and adults and enjoy helping individuals with issues including self-esteem, relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, life transitions and identity.
Additionally, I have over six years of experience working with developmentally delayed adults and special needs children and welcome work with these special populations.
(773) 649-6783 View (773) 649-6783
Photo of Luis Díaz, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Luis Díaz
Counselor, MA, LCPC
10 Endorsed
Online Only
I also work the areas of trauma, gender identity, sexual orientation, relationship problems, stress, self-esteem, mindfulness, self-care, and culture shock.
When we work together, you can expect a warm and friendly space where we can explore life's challenges with greater clarity and resilience. Through our sessions, we will uncover the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Exploring one's life in a safe and supportive space fosters healing, acceptance, and growth.
I also work the areas of trauma, gender identity, sexual orientation, relationship problems, stress, self-esteem, mindfulness, self-care, and culture shock.
When we work together, you can expect a warm and friendly space where we can explore life's challenges with greater clarity and resilience. Through our sessions, we will uncover the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Exploring one's life in a safe and supportive space fosters healing, acceptance, and growth.
(773) 207-4095 View (773) 207-4095
Photo of Jami Pugh, Counselor, MA, LCPC, ATR-BC, NCC
Jami Pugh
Counselor, MA, LCPC, ATR-BC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, social anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem, perfectionism, life changes/transitions, grief, identity, and stress (work, school, relationships, etc).
I use CBT, DBT, and ACT techniques to support treatment goals through skill-building, gaining insights, and clarifying values. I’m trained and credentialed in counseling & art therapy and include art therapy in sessions as desired by clients. Art therapy focuses on the art-making process so art skills or talents are not needed for people to benefit from it.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, social anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem, perfectionism, life changes/transitions, grief, identity, and stress (work, school, relationships, etc).
I use CBT, DBT, and ACT techniques to support treatment goals through skill-building, gaining insights, and clarifying values. I’m trained and credentialed in counseling & art therapy and include art therapy in sessions as desired by clients. Art therapy focuses on the art-making process so art skills or talents are not needed for people to benefit from it.
(872) 252-7836 View (872) 252-7836
Photo of Tracey Bell-Hodgman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tracey Bell-Hodgman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
I aim to provide a non-judgemental holding space fueled by curiosity for your experiences. We are in a particularly interesting time where community and support is needed more than ever to help us navigate the world. Therapy is one piece of the puzzle to more sustainable wellness overall. In therapy we are allowed space to explore the meaning we’ve made from past experiences, societal expectations, and world views. I’ve worked in residential facilities for young families and community mental health with ages throughout the lifespan.
I aim to provide a non-judgemental holding space fueled by curiosity for your experiences. We are in a particularly interesting time where community and support is needed more than ever to help us navigate the world. Therapy is one piece of the puzzle to more sustainable wellness overall. In therapy we are allowed space to explore the meaning we’ve made from past experiences, societal expectations, and world views. I’ve worked in residential facilities for young families and community mental health with ages throughout the lifespan.
(312) 872-3630 View (312) 872-3630

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

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

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

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