Self-Esteem Therapy

In-person in Corvallis | Online therapy in Oregon

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Build Confidence & Self-Compassion

When a person frequently questions their abilities and worth, or finds it challenging to accept compliments, they may be experiencing the derailing impact of low self-esteem. Perhaps you've noticed that inner voice that whispers "I'm not good enough" or "I don't deserve this." These experiences of self-doubt and harsh self-criticism on some level may make sense (in terms of their possible connection to meaningful core values), yet they are, of course, highly disruptive and become a heavy burden to endure.

The encouraging news is that low self-esteem can be genuinely increased.

It's a skill that can be developed and strengthened through compassionate, evidence-based therapy.  

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Self-Esteem Challenges

Self-esteem affects how someone feels about who they are—their evaluation of their own worth and value. When this internal relationship becomes strained, the effects ripple through extensive areas of life. Relationships become more difficult, career decisions feel overwhelming, and daily life can lack direction, progress and fulfillment.

Low self-esteem often creates a cycle where self-doubt reinforces itself, making it harder to recognize personal strengths and accomplishments. Without support, these patterns often deepen over time, leading to increased avoidance, isolation, internal conflict and emotional pain.

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Some common experiences you might recognize:

  • Constantly questioning your worth and abilities

  • Feeling lost about life direction and purpose

  • People-pleasing behaviors to gain approval

  • Experiencing imposter syndrome at work or school

  • Difficulty making decisions that honor your needs

  • Avoiding challenging or new situations due to fear of failure

  • Comparing yourself constantly to others

  • Living according to others' expectations, instead of your values

  • Feeling disconnected from your authentic self

  • Relationships that don't reflect who you truly are

My Therapeutic Approach

I collaborate with people to create a space where they can explore their innermost thoughts and feelings while developing authentic self-knowledge and genuine self-worth. Together, we work to understand the stories someone has been telling themselves, gently challenge limiting beliefs, and develop new, more compassionate narratives about who they are.

Self-esteem work in therapy isn't about changing who someone is—it's about embracing and accepting their true self while developing the skills to value that authentic self consistently.

I utilize several evidence-based approaches that work together to address self-esteem challenges comprehensively:

  • Through mindfulness-based techniques, clients develop present-moment awareness and create space between self-critical thoughts and reactions, allowing for more conscious and compassionate responses.

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps in identifying and gently challenging unhelpful thought patterns while developing more balanced and realistic perspectives.

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on clarifying personal values and learning to take meaningful action even when self-doubt is present, emphasizing value-aligned living.

  • Internal Family Systems (IFS) allows for understanding different aspects of oneself, including the protective parts that created self-critical patterns, while reconnecting with one's inherent compassion, clarity, courage, creativity and wisdom.

Through our collaborative relationship, clients can develop a more realistic and compassionate relationship with themselves—one that includes acknowledging both strengths and areas for growth, while treating themselves with the same kindness they would show a good friend. Clients are then significantly more likely to make 'towards move - based decisions' which align with a greater number of their values, as opposed to making mostly avoidant, 'away move - based decisions', which are largely fueled by fear.

Start building genuine self-compassion.

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Getting Started

Every person's struggle with self-criticism is different, and so is their path to developing genuine self-compassion.

With commitment to the healing process and skilled support, moving from inner judgment to authentic self-acceptance is possible.

  • We'll begin with a complimentary phone conversation where we can discuss your anxiety concerns and determine if we might be a good fit for working together.

    This gives you a chance to ask questions and experience my approach without any pressure.

  • During our first session, we'll begin to identify your low functioning patterns, triggers, and goals for treatment.

    This comprehensive assessment helps me understand your unique experience and begin developing a treatment plan.

  • Regular therapy sessions provide a consistent space to explore, process, and develop new tools and perspectives. Sessions are scheduled weekly or bi-weekly depending on individual needs and preferences.

    Together, we'll work on practical anxiety management techniques while addressing the underlying patterns that keep you feeling stuck.

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Ready to Quiet That Critical Inner Voice?

Learning to treat yourself with kindness can become a turning point in your life. Whether dealing with specific self-esteem challenges or seeking deeper self-understanding, compassionate guidance is available to support this meaningful process of personal growth.

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