Self Esteem Therapists in Forest Park, IL
Participation in mental health counseling is one of the greatest gifts a person can give himself or herself, at anytime, but especially during times of stress. The opportunity to meet with a therapist and explore troubling issues in a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgemental environment is an immediate stress reliever. The support and encouragement that I can provide will assist you with learning new strategies to cope with what is troubling you in your life.
Participation in mental health counseling is one of the greatest gifts a person can give himself or herself, at anytime, but especially during times of stress. The opportunity to meet with a therapist and explore troubling issues in a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgemental environment is an immediate stress reliever. The support and encouragement that I can provide will assist you with learning new strategies to cope with what is troubling you in your life.
You can often find me playing games, trying new things, acknowledging what I don't know, being confident in what I do, and leaning into my own self-worth journey.
Therapy is hard work but it’s worth it because it starts with choosing yourself and being intentional about how you want to live your life. While we may come to therapy in a time of hardship, we all have strengths that we can use a foundation for growth. There’s no one-size-fits-all therapeutic approach so I use a blend of approaches including DBT, CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and Play/Narrative therapies. I also understand how systemic forces shape our realities, and I help clients recognize these forces and develop skills to cope.
You can often find me playing games, trying new things, acknowledging what I don't know, being confident in what I do, and leaning into my own self-worth journey.
Therapy is hard work but it’s worth it because it starts with choosing yourself and being intentional about how you want to live your life. While we may come to therapy in a time of hardship, we all have strengths that we can use a foundation for growth. There’s no one-size-fits-all therapeutic approach so I use a blend of approaches including DBT, CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and Play/Narrative therapies. I also understand how systemic forces shape our realities, and I help clients recognize these forces and develop skills to cope.
I work with adults who are ready to explore the impact of varies of traumas and how it may still be showing up today through the intense stress, sadness, low self-worth, or feeling stuck during major life transitions.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in powerful methods like EMDR and parts work (Internal Family Systems). These tools help us get to the root of things — gently and at your pace — so you can start feeling more connected to yourself and release the pain until it's weightless.
I work with adults who are ready to explore the impact of varies of traumas and how it may still be showing up today through the intense stress, sadness, low self-worth, or feeling stuck during major life transitions.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in powerful methods like EMDR and parts work (Internal Family Systems). These tools help us get to the root of things — gently and at your pace — so you can start feeling more connected to yourself and release the pain until it's weightless.
We all deserve to have someone in our life who will listen. Not just hear us, but really listen - taking in every word we say, because they want to.
For those of us who have experienced difficulties: dysfunctional family dynamics, bullying, verbal abuse, learning challenges, scarcity or any other adverse experiences - especially during childhood - it can put undue stress on our confidence. So much so, that when authentic support does come around, it feels fleeting or so odd that it’s tough to believe it’s real or that we even deserve it.
We all deserve to have someone in our life who will listen. Not just hear us, but really listen - taking in every word we say, because they want to.
For those of us who have experienced difficulties: dysfunctional family dynamics, bullying, verbal abuse, learning challenges, scarcity or any other adverse experiences - especially during childhood - it can put undue stress on our confidence. So much so, that when authentic support does come around, it feels fleeting or so odd that it’s tough to believe it’s real or that we even deserve it.
Welcome, come as you are and bring all that you’re facing and trying to manage. I believe things can get better. I am convinced that we all have what we need to find healing. My aim is to work with you in collaboration to identify the barriers you’re facing and to find ways to overcome them. I believe that looking into our past, learning tools, adapting perspectives, and having new experiences can make all the difference. Above all, I want you to feel understood and valued for who you are.
Welcome, come as you are and bring all that you’re facing and trying to manage. I believe things can get better. I am convinced that we all have what we need to find healing. My aim is to work with you in collaboration to identify the barriers you’re facing and to find ways to overcome them. I believe that looking into our past, learning tools, adapting perspectives, and having new experiences can make all the difference. Above all, I want you to feel understood and valued for who you are.
I aim to create a safe space where clients can feel at ease. My style blends empathy, authenticity, and psychoeducation. I take an intuitive and flexible approach, shaping each session around what you need at that moment. I work with adolescents and adults struggling with symptoms related trauma, anxiety, and addiction.
I aim to create a safe space where clients can feel at ease. My style blends empathy, authenticity, and psychoeducation. I take an intuitive and flexible approach, shaping each session around what you need at that moment. I work with adolescents and adults struggling with symptoms related trauma, anxiety, and addiction.
Deciding to embark on the journey of therapy can be daunting, yet it marks a courageous step towards healing and self-discovery. I specialize in working with couples, children, and adolescents, with a primary focus on trauma and attachment. I also see individual adults. Although I am trained in modalities including EMDR and Gottman therapy, as well as certified in Somatic Therapy, my general trauma-informed approach is rooted in compassion and a client-centered, humanistic approach, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Deciding to embark on the journey of therapy can be daunting, yet it marks a courageous step towards healing and self-discovery. I specialize in working with couples, children, and adolescents, with a primary focus on trauma and attachment. I also see individual adults. Although I am trained in modalities including EMDR and Gottman therapy, as well as certified in Somatic Therapy, my general trauma-informed approach is rooted in compassion and a client-centered, humanistic approach, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Life can be easy when everything goes exactly as we plan… but it rarely if ever does. Traumatic experiences of all shapes and sizes have a lasting impact on the way we perceive and interact with the world and can manifest in ways that prevent us from living our best lives. When we get stuck in patterns that either do not serve us, or worse, make our lives even more challenging, we need new tools to identify and more effectively work toward those unique aspirations we have for ourselves.
Life can be easy when everything goes exactly as we plan… but it rarely if ever does. Traumatic experiences of all shapes and sizes have a lasting impact on the way we perceive and interact with the world and can manifest in ways that prevent us from living our best lives. When we get stuck in patterns that either do not serve us, or worse, make our lives even more challenging, we need new tools to identify and more effectively work toward those unique aspirations we have for ourselves.
I have 17 years of experience in the mental health field working with clients to navigate and manage depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, low self-esteem and trauma.
I believe that it takes a lot of strength and courage to ask for help. If you are ready to take the next steps to improve your quality of life, please reach out to me to schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if I’m the right clinician to support you on your journey. I am a solution focused therapist and use a strength-based approach in my practice. While I believe that processing past trauma and experiences can be an important part of recovery, I am here to meet you where you are right now to help focus on your goals for the future.
I have 17 years of experience in the mental health field working with clients to navigate and manage depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, low self-esteem and trauma.
I believe that it takes a lot of strength and courage to ask for help. If you are ready to take the next steps to improve your quality of life, please reach out to me to schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if I’m the right clinician to support you on your journey. I am a solution focused therapist and use a strength-based approach in my practice. While I believe that processing past trauma and experiences can be an important part of recovery, I am here to meet you where you are right now to help focus on your goals for the future.
I work with adults who are high-functioning yet caught in persistent patterns — in relationships, in stress responses, or in the way they relate to themselves. My areas of focus include addiction recovery, codependency, shame, emotional neglect, boundary-setting, and the long-term impact of complex trauma.
My approach is trauma-informed, relational, and grounded in nervous system science. We examine how earlier experiences shaped your coping strategies, attachment dynamics, and core beliefs. When past experiences continue to feel activated or unresolved, I integrate EMDR to support deeper processing and lasting change.
I work with adults who are high-functioning yet caught in persistent patterns — in relationships, in stress responses, or in the way they relate to themselves. My areas of focus include addiction recovery, codependency, shame, emotional neglect, boundary-setting, and the long-term impact of complex trauma.
My approach is trauma-informed, relational, and grounded in nervous system science. We examine how earlier experiences shaped your coping strategies, attachment dynamics, and core beliefs. When past experiences continue to feel activated or unresolved, I integrate EMDR to support deeper processing and lasting change.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 7 years of experience in the field. I specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, coping skills, stress, and men's issues, and approach the therapeutic process with compassion and empathy, treating everyone with respect and dignity. During sessions, I use a mix of motivational interviewing, compassion and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), among other appropriate techniques. I have learned that no two people are the same and that everyone must be treated individually and holistically. Above all else, I value creating a safe, nonjudgmental and welcoming environment.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 7 years of experience in the field. I specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, coping skills, stress, and men's issues, and approach the therapeutic process with compassion and empathy, treating everyone with respect and dignity. During sessions, I use a mix of motivational interviewing, compassion and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), among other appropriate techniques. I have learned that no two people are the same and that everyone must be treated individually and holistically. Above all else, I value creating a safe, nonjudgmental and welcoming environment.
Are you struggling with depression and/or anxiety? Trauma, life transitions, grief, identity, relationships, culture, and self-concept all play a role in how we experience life. We can explore these topics together. I have experience supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults in mid-life navigate challenges and create change in their lives. Using CBT, ACT, EMDR, and motivational interviewing while grounded in person-centered and a culturally inclusive foundation, I have worked with people from diverse backgrounds. I am LGBTQ positive and aware.
Are you struggling with depression and/or anxiety? Trauma, life transitions, grief, identity, relationships, culture, and self-concept all play a role in how we experience life. We can explore these topics together. I have experience supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults in mid-life navigate challenges and create change in their lives. Using CBT, ACT, EMDR, and motivational interviewing while grounded in person-centered and a culturally inclusive foundation, I have worked with people from diverse backgrounds. I am LGBTQ positive and aware.
Both of these types of traumas can lead to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, addiction, phobias, relationship issues, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or more.
While trained in several techniques, I most commonly use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) as it has provided the most effective results for my clients. EMDR works with the brain’s natural healing process to resolve issues at their roots. When a problem is treated at its most base level, symptoms fade quickly and are unlikely to return.
Both of these types of traumas can lead to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, addiction, phobias, relationship issues, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or more.
While trained in several techniques, I most commonly use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) as it has provided the most effective results for my clients. EMDR works with the brain’s natural healing process to resolve issues at their roots. When a problem is treated at its most base level, symptoms fade quickly and are unlikely to return.
Welcome! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in providing support for depression, anxiety, trauma, cultural adjustments, significant life changes with children, teens, and adults. I practiced in various capacities, such as outpatient mental health, residential, in-home, and virtual settings. My approach is culturally sensitive to create a safe and balanced environment where you feel heard, seen, and valued.
Welcome! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in providing support for depression, anxiety, trauma, cultural adjustments, significant life changes with children, teens, and adults. I practiced in various capacities, such as outpatient mental health, residential, in-home, and virtual settings. My approach is culturally sensitive to create a safe and balanced environment where you feel heard, seen, and valued.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and I work with clients from diverse backgrounds. I have extensive experience working with clients who are adult children of alcoholics and helping clients who have suffered a loss(es) and seek bereavement counseling. I also work with adults and youths who have both depression and anxiety, including panic attacks and phobias. I offer specific strategies to combat anxiety and panic attacks. My particular expertise has been working with parents and their children. Other areas of practice are sexual abuse and domestic violence.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and I work with clients from diverse backgrounds. I have extensive experience working with clients who are adult children of alcoholics and helping clients who have suffered a loss(es) and seek bereavement counseling. I also work with adults and youths who have both depression and anxiety, including panic attacks and phobias. I offer specific strategies to combat anxiety and panic attacks. My particular expertise has been working with parents and their children. Other areas of practice are sexual abuse and domestic violence.
Ever feel like you are holding a lot but those closest to you cannot see it? Are you a high achiever and driven but facing internal pressure, fatigue, and a constant need to hold it together for others?
I work with high-achieving professionals, particularly Black, Indigenous, and other individuals of color who are navigating burnout, identity, relationships, and the emotional weight that comes with being “the strong one.” Therapy with me is a space where you don’t have to perform, filter, or shrink. We slow things down and explore ways to heal to find peace and balance in your everyday life.
Ever feel like you are holding a lot but those closest to you cannot see it? Are you a high achiever and driven but facing internal pressure, fatigue, and a constant need to hold it together for others?
I work with high-achieving professionals, particularly Black, Indigenous, and other individuals of color who are navigating burnout, identity, relationships, and the emotional weight that comes with being “the strong one.” Therapy with me is a space where you don’t have to perform, filter, or shrink. We slow things down and explore ways to heal to find peace and balance in your everyday life.
Hi There! I’m a therapist who believes healing is possible—and it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. It starts where you feel safe, seen, and truly heard. Drawing from my diverse background, I tailor therapy to each person’s unique story. Working with young to older adults navigating mood, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. My style is warm, curious, and collaborative—helping you uncover patterns, process emotions, and create meaningful change, all while feeling supported every step of the way.
Hi There! I’m a therapist who believes healing is possible—and it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. It starts where you feel safe, seen, and truly heard. Drawing from my diverse background, I tailor therapy to each person’s unique story. Working with young to older adults navigating mood, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. My style is warm, curious, and collaborative—helping you uncover patterns, process emotions, and create meaningful change, all while feeling supported every step of the way.
Hi – my name is Carla, and I am passionate about assisting individuals in making positive life changes. My 8 years of clinical experience has included supporting individuals in inpatient, outpatient, crisis and emergency settings. I am experienced in providing counseling services to adults, young adults, and adolescents.
Hi – my name is Carla, and I am passionate about assisting individuals in making positive life changes. My 8 years of clinical experience has included supporting individuals in inpatient, outpatient, crisis and emergency settings. I am experienced in providing counseling services to adults, young adults, and adolescents.
My specialty is providing therapeutic services to children and adults. I utilize a client centered approach to join with my clients in the therapeutic process and offer gentle, non-judgmental support through the journey of therapy. I meet you where you are.
My specialty is providing therapeutic services to children and adults. I utilize a client centered approach to join with my clients in the therapeutic process and offer gentle, non-judgmental support through the journey of therapy. I meet you where you are.
Mainstream psychiatry and psychology tend to reduce mental health “symptoms” to problems with brain chemistry and dysfunctional cognitive processes. These explanations do little to help people find meaning in their suffering because they do not capture the complexity of the human experience and of the soul. Though undoubtedly painful, I believe these “symptoms” are often a summons from our souls to turn inward, where the real journey begins and where lasting transformation is possible. The first step is to recognize this summons for what it is. The next step is to have the courage to answer it. This is where I can help.
Mainstream psychiatry and psychology tend to reduce mental health “symptoms” to problems with brain chemistry and dysfunctional cognitive processes. These explanations do little to help people find meaning in their suffering because they do not capture the complexity of the human experience and of the soul. Though undoubtedly painful, I believe these “symptoms” are often a summons from our souls to turn inward, where the real journey begins and where lasting transformation is possible. The first step is to recognize this summons for what it is. The next step is to have the courage to answer it. This is where I can help.
See more therapy options for Forest Park
Nearby Self Esteem Therapists Searches for Forest Park
- Bellwood
- Berwyn
- Brookfield
- Cicero
- Elmwood Park
- Maywood
- Melrose Park
- North Riverside
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Riverside
- Westchester
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.