Self Esteem Therapists in Ottawa, ON
Morgan Mackenzie
MSW, RSW, Psychotherapist
I specialize in empowering young adults in their late teens, 20s, and 30s to reclaim confidence, happiness, and fulfillment, despite the challenges of low self-esteem, anxiety, and relationship struggles.
Michelle Philippe
Registered Psychotherapist, MA Counselling Psychology
I'm so glad you are here. Sometimes we can feel weighed down by sadness, anxiety, shame, a harsh inner critic, or not feeling “good enough”. This can sometimes occur with difficulty with people pleasing, perfectionism, chronic worry, or unreasonably high self-standards. Are you a high performer, an artist, athlete, dancer (or former)? Has a life transition or loss left you feeling overwhelmed? ...
Janice Lyons
Registered Social Service Worker
Are you feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or exhausted? Are you tired of searching through profiles to find the right therapist? I'm Janice. Let's work together; I am now accepting new clients. Typically, sessions focus on how anxiety, neurodivergence, beliefs, relationship issues, and self-esteem affect us. You will learn to understand yourself and develop effective management skills.
Alicia Alessandrini
Registered Social Worker, EMDR, MSW, RSW
Drawing from many frameworks and trainings, including a Trauma-focused approach, Strengths-Based, EMDR, DBT, Narrative, and Attachment Therapy, our work together will be specifically built for you. I specialize in mood (anxiety, stress, depression), self-esteem, trauma, ADHD, and Autism. Claim your free consultation today.
Anastasia Berezowsky
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
My practice blends talk therapy and structured accountability to help you find balance and resilience—especially when life feels demanding and you need some direction. With a background in Kinesiology and Psychology, I take a whole-person approach that connects mind and body. I support clients who feel misaligned and need the space to untangle themselves from the stressors of every day.
Allison Clayton
Registered Psychotherapist
Are you tired of the 'sunshine, butterflies and rainbows' idea of therapy? You aren't here for surface-level advice, trying to “just think positive,” or having to worry about judgment. I am here to provide you with tools that work individually for you and conversations that matter - on both a human level and from an evidence-based approach.
Michelle Azzi
Clinical Psychology Resident
Whether you are going through a difficult time or embarking on a journey of personal growth, I am here to support you every step of the way. I believe that each person possesses a wealth of wisdom, knowledge, insight, and resilience that can guide them through life’s challenges, especially when they have the right support. It is my privilege to accompany you on your path to wellness.
Jillian Ivany
Registered Psychotherapist
Life can feel overwhelming, leaving you anxious, disconnected, or stuck in painful patterns. I offer Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy in a warm, non-judgmental space where all parts of you are welcome. Together we explore your inner world with curiosity to support healing, clarity, and connection to yourself and others. I offer virtual/in person session. Free 15min consultations available.
Geoffrey Stone - Glowing Hearts and Minds - Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) - College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario
I provide psychotherapy to adults (18+) with stress, grief, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, trauma, and other issues. I take an integrative approach to psychotherapy, primarily operating from a Person-Centred approach, incorporating Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Logotherapy, and Mindfulness. I continue to learn new therapies to better help my clients.
Laura Shaw
Registered Psychotherapist
High expectations, low self-esteem, and a brain that won’t shut off? I specialize in supporting women (20s-40s) navigating anxiety, life transitions, and suspected (or confirmed) neurodivergence (ADHD or AuDHD). My approach is neuro-affirming, mind-body centered, and specifically designed to help you stop overthinking and start living authentically. Let's build a life that actually feels like you!
Cassandra Tennriello
Registered Psychotherapist
Hi! I'm a Registered Psychotherapist and Canadian Certified Counsellor with 11 years of experience. I walk alongside my clients as they heal, whether supporting emotional regulation, processing trauma, or navigating life transitions. I use an integrative approach, drawing from different theories, modalities, and approaches that fit their unique needs!
Cierra DoCouto
Registered Psychotherapist
Helping adults in Burlington, Ontario navigate anxiety, self-esteem challenges, relationship concerns, and attachment patterns. Offering in-person and virtual psychotherapy that is collaborative, evidence-informed, and tailored to support personal growth, emotional well-being, and resilience.
Samantha Bernhard
Registered Psychotherapist Qualifying
Mississauga in-person therapy now available! Life can feel overwhelming at times—whether it’s the weight of unresolved emotions, relationship struggles, or the stress of daily life. If you’re looking for a space to feel seen, heard, and supported, I’m here to help.
Anya Rameshwar
Therapist
In our first session, my priority is our connection. A positive initial connection will help the therapy relationship flourish. Through therapy, we will examine different parts of your life, your memories, past experiences and where you are at present.
Jessica DeMille
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, B.Sc (Hons)
I work with individuals, couples, families, and children (10+), providing a safe, supportive space for exploration and growth. Using an integrative, client-centered approach, I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, relationships, and life transitions, fostering resilience, self-awareness, and meaningful change. Together, we explore tools and strategies to support emotional well-being.
Varshini Skantharajah
Registered Psychotherapist
Anna Marson
Registered Psychotherapist
Anna Marson is a registered psychotherapist specializing in ADHD, trauma, neurodiversity, attachment, stress, and emotion regulation. She integrates evidence-based therapies, mindfulness, and ADHD coaching to help clients build resilience, regulate emotions, and develop practical skills for lasting, positive change. Her approach is compassionate, brain/body-informed, and strength-based.
Kathryn Jones
Registered Social Worker
I provide evidence-based therapy for Anxiety, OCD, Depression, ADHD, Behavioural Addictions (ie., shopping, gambling, pornography, gaming), Stress, Unhealthy Relationships, Body Image, and Trauma. Together, we'll clarify your goals and identify the thoughts, beliefs, or behaviours getting in your way. We'll create a roadmap with realistic, meaningful steps toward living your best possible life.
Matthew Klompus
Registered Psychotherapist
Hi! I'm Matt Klompus, and I am a registered psychotherapist working out of Kitchener, Ontario. I see clients virtually throughout Ontario. I specialize in ADHD, depression/anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem, and past trauma. I also work with couples. I primarily use a client-centered, strengths-based approach, bringing in elements of IFS, DBT and EFT.
Athena Zambelis
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Registered Nurse, MSc.
There’s a tenet in life that if you run towards your fears, you'll unlock your full potential and the future you always dreamed of. Let’s run towards those fears together.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Self Esteem
What causes low self-esteem and can therapy help?
Low self-esteem commonly develops from early experiences such as criticism, neglect, bullying, or trauma, but it can also emerge from chronic stress, relationship difficulties, or mental health conditions like depression. Therapy can help significantly — a trained therapist works with you to identify where negative self-beliefs originated, challenge their accuracy, and build a more grounded, compassionate relationship with yourself.
What therapy approaches are most effective for low self-esteem?
CBT is one of the most evidence-based approaches for low self-esteem, targeting the negative core beliefs and self-critical thought patterns that maintain it. Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Schema Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are also widely used and particularly helpful when low self-esteem is deep-rooted or connected to early life experiences. Many therapists integrate these approaches based on your individual history.
Is low self-esteem a mental health diagnosis?
Low self-esteem is not a standalone diagnosis, but it is a significant contributing factor to — and symptom of — many mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and personality disorders. You do not need a formal diagnosis to seek therapy for self-esteem concerns. Many people find that addressing self-esteem directly produces improvements across multiple areas of their mental health.
How long does therapy for self-esteem typically take?
The timeline varies depending on how deep-rooted your self-esteem issues are and whether they are connected to trauma or long-standing patterns. Some people notice meaningful shifts within 8–12 sessions of CBT-focused work; others with more complex histories benefit from longer-term therapy over 6–12 months or more. Your therapist will discuss realistic expectations early in treatment.
Can therapy for self-esteem help with other issues too?
Yes — improving self-esteem often has a positive ripple effect. People frequently report reduced anxiety, improved relationships, greater assertiveness, and better ability to handle setbacks as their self-esteem grows. Because low self-esteem underlies so many other challenges, addressing it directly can be one of the most impactful things you do for your overall wellbeing.
