Self-Esteem
You are valued just as you are!.
Low Self-Esteem Can Hold You Back
Low self-esteem quietly erodes quality of life. It affects how you see yourself, how you allow others to treat you, and what you believe you can achieve. Many people struggle for years without realizing how deeply self-worth impacts relationships, goals, and mental health.
The good news: low self-esteem is treatable. Therapy helps you challenge beliefs like “I’m not good enough,” “I don’t deserve kindness,” or “my needs don’t matter”—and begin rewriting your inner story.
Signs & Causes of Low Self-Esteem
Low self-esteem shows up in many ways:
Cognitive: harsh inner critic, self-doubt, perfectionism
Emotional: shame, fear of judgment, imposter syndrome
Behavioral: people-pleasing, avoidance, difficulty asserting needs
Social: fear of rejection, unhealthy relationships, withdrawal
It often develops over time, shaped by experiences like:
Childhood criticism, neglect, or bullying
Academic pressure or school-based shaming
Cultural, racial, or gender-based discrimination
Toxic or invalidating relationships
Constant comparison (including social media)
Left unaddressed, the cycle deepens: self-doubt → avoidance → more doubt. But this cycle can be broken.
You are so much more than how others have made you feel, you deserve to own the narrative of your life.
How Therapy Builds Confidence
Therapy creates a safe, supportive space to explore the roots of self-esteem and build a kinder relationship with yourself. Together, we’ll work to:
Reframe negative thought patterns
Set and maintain healthy boundaries
Reclaim your voice and personal power
Break cycles of people-pleasing or self-sabotage
Build self-compassion and resilience
Develop tools to speak up, take risks, and grow
“If you can’t love yourself how in the hell you gonna love somebody else?”
~ Rupaul
Clients often report:
Greater confidence and self-trust
Freedom from harsh self-criticism
Improved communication and assertiveness
More fulfilling relationships
Motivation to pursue goals
A stronger sense of worth
At Caretta Counseling, we offer gentle, affirming, practical support to help you live more fully and authentically.