Self-esteem

Self-esteem, self-confidence, self-image…these are the trio that intertwine and perhaps have the most significant impact on a person’s well-being and enjoyment of life. Therefore, we find that self-esteem is often at the core of a variety of psychological difficulties. Low self-esteem shows up in depression, anxiety (especially social anxiety), eating disorders, addictions, relationship problems, communication problems, and more. One may have rather high self-esteem under certain conditions, but in others, it may waver.

When what other people think of oneself is considered more important than one’s own self-regard, then it could be said that the person’s self-esteem is in effect located outside their body. That is, the self-esteem depends on others’ views, which renders it to be unstable, causing one to be overly vulnerable to public opinion (whether it be real or imagined). Negative emotional reactions and suffering can be the result. Eventually, these real or perceived negative judgments become integrated as part of one’s own view of oneself, solidifying an impairment in self-esteem. Identifying impairments in self esteem and working to build up or heal the self-esteem in those area is central to the work of cognitive therapy. In therapy, one learns how to take one’s power back, and be the keeper of one’s self-esteem.

Help begins with a phone call.

CTA is a network of experienced therapists across the New York metro area. We strive to match you with the right therapist for you, to help you to effectively manage and resolve issues related to low self esteem. To inquire about an appointment, please call us at (212) 258-2577.