Emotions

• Ever get an attack of the “what ifs”? What if I never meet the right one? What if I interview badly? What if they laugh at me?
• Or maybe you’re so shy you hold yourself back.
• Do you often settle for what you get, and give up what you want?
• Do you lose sleep from anxiously worrying about something.
• Do you have a constant fear of being judged by others?

These situations are all examples of low self-esteem or self-image which have many overlapping features.

Self-image focuses how you see your body and self-esteem focuses on how you feel about yourself.

Low self-esteem is the more important of the two because it is usually the underlying cause of irrational fears, anxiety, depression, loneliness, out of control anger or eating, and addictive behaviors. These numerous conditions are fueled by experiences from childhood that create shame and/or guilt, two of the most powerfully corrosive emotions to a child’s self-esteem.

Positive self-image is attainable through effort and maintenance. I serve my clients by neutralizing old triggers, identifying forgotten strengths, and teaching new coping skills which enhance their self-respect.

As one’s self-esteem is restored, the ability to participate in mutually rewarding relationships of respect, love, and intimacy, grows.