Low self-esteem
Low self esteem often develops from early experiences that taught you to doubt your worth or feel not enough. These beliefs are not reflections of who you truly are, but protective adaptations shaped over time. Therapy supports gently unburdening these internal narratives and reconnecting you with a more grounded, compassionate view of yourself.
The Quiet Voice That Says You Are Not Enough
Low self-esteem often shows up as a persistent inner questioning. You may doubt your worth, minimize your needs or feel uneasy receiving care or recognition. For many people, this inner voice has been present for so long that it feels like truth rather than something learned.
These beliefs usually develop over time through early messages or relational experiences that shaped how you learned to see yourself. When safety, affirmation, or emotional attunement were inconsistent, self doubt often became a way to adapt and protect yourself.
In therapy, we approach these beliefs with compassion rather than challenge or force. Instead of trying to replace negative thoughts, we explore where they came from and what they have been trying to protect you from.
“Instead of trying to replace negative thoughts, we explore where they came from and what they have been trying to protect you from.”
Internal Family Systems helps bring understanding to the parts of you that learned to criticize or doubt in order to stay safe. EMDR can support healing around formative experiences that shaped these internal narratives. Over time, many clients experience a shift toward a more grounded and compassionate sense of self that is not dependent on achievement or approval.
If self-doubt has been shaping how you relate to yourself or others, therapy can offer a space to reconnect with your inherent worth. You are welcome to reach out to learn more about beginning this work.