Researchers believe that self-esteem and feelings of shame are programed in to us in our early lives. Feelings of core shame can cause us to distort or misinterpret even positive or neutral social or work interactions--leaving us feeling rejected or devalued. This can become a vicious cycle causing anxiety, depression, and stress. If you suffer from low self-esteem and shame, psychotherapy can help you to gain tools to regulate the fear and stress you are experiencing and move toward positive change.
Low self-esteem can impact every aspect of our lives, but it doesn't have to define us. In therapy, you'll find a safe and supportive space where you can explore the root causes of your self-esteem issues, challenge negative beliefs about yourself, and learn to cultivate a more positive and compassionate self-image.
Self-esteem is a widely misunderstood concept. I often feel that enhancing an individual's self-efficacy (their perception of their competence) can be a much more effective approach to building self-esteem than other treatment models. If you feel you may experience poor self-esteem, please contact me.