Online Therapy for Self-Esteem
We all want to feel enough—good-looking enough, smart enough, and accomplished enough. Yet, self-deprecating thoughts stand in the way.
Around 85% of people worldwide have issues with their self-esteem!
There’s still hope, though.
It’s possible to overcome these negative feelings and realize you’re enough. Online therapy for self-esteem can help with that. Let’s see why that is.
When to Seek Online Therapy for Self-Esteem?
Before we start talking about how therapy can help with low self-esteem issues, let’s check out if this is the right treatment for you in the first place.
Online therapy might be the right choice if…
1. You’re Showing Signs of Low Self-Esteem
Discouragement. You didn’t get it done, again. Disappointment. Why do I keep doing the same things over and over? People pleasing. Maybe if I just do what they say, they’ll like me and look past this incident. Unease. You don’t feel authentically you. Perfectionism. This has to be perfect, or I’m a loser. Exhaustion. The thoughts racing through your head just won’t stop. Spiraling. Will this be how it is forever? Disbelief. Why is this happening to me?
Whether you’re just starting your career or education or are seeking or have reached the goals you’ve set out to do, self-esteem challenges can happen to anyone.
Everyone has experiences like those above that get them down and even in a funk. Self-esteem issues, however, can arise from repeated exposure and rumination to these thoughts, emotions, and actions.
Low self-esteem can also looks like:
- You have a hard time accepting/believing compliments
- You think of yourself as an unlovable person
- Negative/self-deprecating thoughts are constantly popping up in your head
- You often have trouble maintaining eye contact
- You’re sensitive to criticism
- Feelings of shame and worthlessness overshadow any feeling of achievement you may have
- You’ve developed a pattern of isolating yourself in social situations
Do you resonate with these statements? If so, your self-esteem might be in need of a boost.
2. Your Negative Thoughts or Feelings Don’t Respond to Regular Self-Care
Most people’s self-esteem goes through ups and downs. Some folks tackle the “downs” with a bit of self-care (rest, affirmations, exercise, mindfulness, etc.).
What if the negative feelings don’t respond to self-care? Well, it might be time to seek professional help.
Keep in mind that, over time, trying to “cope” with low self-esteem can force you to develop unhealthy habits and behavior patterns.
3. Conventional Therapy Isn’t a Good Fit for You
Since you’re still reading, we assume that the first two points apply to you, which means you could likely benefit from some form of therapy.
Now, the question is: Why would you choose online therapy, in particular, for your self-esteem issues?
There are two main reasons why online sessions might be a better fit than traditional face-to-face therapy. First is flexibility. You can get the help you need right from the comfort of your own home or office space at work. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, more people are seeking online therapy due to its ease and convenience.
Second, other people shy away from therapy due to stigma or what others will think. For example, you may know that your relationship needs couples therapy; however, your partner isn’t interested in going, because, what will his buddies say? Maybe your partner is unknowingly contributing to your low feelings of self-esteem. No matter, you can still seek therapy for you.
There is no requirement that you need to tell others that you or you’re getting help for your relationship. Rather, asking for help can be the choice that makes the difference, especially if you’ve exhausted the knowledge and resources you have.
Many of the people I work with choose online therapy. Send me a message and let’s talk about what’s going on.
Is Online Therapy Going to Work?
Online therapy can work. For many people, personal preferences, a hectic work schedule, as well as life circumstances can steer whether they prefer to be in the office with someone or have therapy online.
A randomized controlled trial found that internet-based therapy does help tackle low self-esteem, while another research study found that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy.
Progress looks different for everyone because it depends on their goals and desired outcomes. Online therapy itself can be effective.
How Can Online Therapy Help With Self-Esteem Issues?
There are a whole lot of potential factors that could lead to a negative self-image. Mental health disorders and even social media could be to blame.
Regardless, licensed therapists can poke and dig until they identify the root causes behind the low self-esteem. Then, understanding where the negative thoughts are coming from can help you break and reshape them.
Plus, the therapy sessions can eventually help you work on your relationships. When you surround yourself with people who believe in you, you’re more likely to see yourself in a better light.
How Can Online Therapy Help With Self-Esteem Issues?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most commonly used treatments for self-esteem.
CBT is basically a type of talk therapy that aims to break down the cycle of negative thinking. But the work doesn’t end when the online session is over. Your therapist might give you homework (like journaling) to complement the talk therapy as well.
What to Look for in an Online Therapist?
So, you think online psychotherapy can boost your self-esteem, but you’re not sure how to find a good therapist.
Here’s a checklist of what you need to look for before booking your first online therapy session:
Final Thoughts
It can be difficult to reach out for help, especially when your negative thoughts or feelings may dissuade you.
So, don’t let self-deprecating thoughts get anchored in your head.
According to my client outcomes, therapy can alter the direction of your thoughts and beliefs about yourself in just 1–2 sessions.
Reach out now; let’s talk about what you’d like to accomplish and work towards.