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← Individual therapy Self-esteem

When your inner voice isn’t kind.

Therapy for low self-worth, perfectionism, people-pleasing and body image, online across California.

What it can sound like

“I’m never good enough, no matter what I do.”

“I compare myself to everyone.”

“I can’t take a compliment.”

“I say yes to everyone because I’m afraid they’ll leave.”

Sound familiar? You’re not alone.How therapy helps ↓
What’s going on

The way you see yourself was learned. It can be relearned.

Low self-esteem usually starts early, shaped by family, school, relationships, culture or painful experiences. Over time, a critical inner voice can start to feel like the truth.

It shows up as perfectionism, people-pleasing, staying in relationships that don’t feel good, or never feeling at home in your body. It often sits underneath anxiety, depression and eating disorders.

Common signs
  • A harsh inner critic
  • Perfectionism or fear of failing
  • People-pleasing and trouble saying no
  • Constant comparison
  • Feeling unworthy in relationships
  • Disliking your body or appearance
If this sounds like you

Here’s how we can help.

It sits underneath so much of what people come in for, and it’s woven through all of our work.

01Find the rootsUnderstanding where the beliefs came from, including attachment and early relationships.
02Quiet the criticCompassion-focused therapy builds a kinder, steadier inner voice.
03Needs and boundariesLearning to ask for what you need and say no without guilt.
04Body imageMaking peace with your body instead of fighting it.
05Act from worthPracticing choices that come from self-respect, not fear.
What can change

What people often notice

A kinder inner voiceSaying no without guiltHealthier relationshipsLess comparisonTrying new thingsFeeling at home in your body

You deserve to feel good enough.

Tell us a little about what’s going on. We’ll match you with a specialist in exactly this, verify your insurance for free, and most people have a first session the same week.

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The science of feeling better, before it reaches your doctor’s office.

New mental health research is published every week, and most of it never makes it out of medical journals. Our specialists read it for you and send the findings that matter, with what they mean for real life.

  • ✓The newest research, translated into plain English
  • ✓What it actually means for you or your family
  • ✓Written and reviewed by our specialists
  • ✓A 4-minute read, every Tuesday morning
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Common questions

Is low self-esteem a reason to start therapy?

Yes. You don’t need a diagnosis. How you feel about yourself affects every part of your life.

Can this help my relationships?

Very often. Self-worth shapes who we choose, what we accept and how we communicate.

Do you see teens for this?

Yes. Teens 13 and up, often with some parent sessions when it helps.

Can therapy really change how I see myself?

Yes. Therapy helps you notice and change the harsh inner voice and build confidence through new experiences.

Is perfectionism something you treat?

Yes. Perfectionism often sits underneath anxiety and low self-esteem, and it responds well to therapy.

Is online therapy as helpful as in-person therapy?

For most people, yes. Research shows video therapy works about as well as in-person therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma and many other concerns. You also skip the drive, which makes it easier to keep going.

Do you take my insurance?

Our clinicians are in-network with Aetna, Anthem, Blue Shield, Cigna, Optum, Carelon, Health Net, Molina, Medi-Cal, Medicare and more, and we accept Kaiser referrals. We check your benefits for free before you start.

How soon can I start?

Most new clients can have a first session within about a week. Call or text (805) 678-9182, or use “Find my match.”

Who can you see?

Anyone located in California at the time of the session. We work with kids, teens, adults, couples and families.