Self-Esteem

Low self-esteem is a common concern that affects about 85% of the population. At Community Counseling Services in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, licensed drug and alcohol counselor James Adams, MS, LADC-I, offers research-backed strategies that help boost self-confidence and your quality of life. Schedule an evaluation with James at Community Counseling Services by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today. 

What is self-esteem?

Self-esteem, or self-confidence, is the way you feel and think about yourself. It’s your sense of worth and the level at which you accept, appreciate, and respect yourself. Low self-esteem is common, but it can take a toll on your mental health when not addressed. Therapy sessions with James can help you discover acceptance and the boost of confidence you deserve.

What are the benefits of high self-esteem?

Self-esteem benefits mental health because it offers the following:

• Reduced stress, anxiety, and depression
• Happier moods
• Stronger peer relationships
• Less loneliness 
• Utilizing your strengths
• More energy
• Self-acceptance 
• Self-worth
• Greater self-confidence
• Enhanced mental health 
• Motivation
• Lower risk of substance misuse
• Reduced suicidal ideation 
• Improved quality of life

Self-esteem can help you recognize your strengths and take advantage of them. It can create a positive, uplifting mood that allows you to build stronger interpersonal relationships.

In contrast, low self-esteem might drain your energy, confidence, motivation, and decision-making skills. It may negatively affect relationships with your classmates, teammates, coworkers, family, and/or friends.

Which factors may contribute to low self-esteem?

The following factors could contribute to low self-esteem:

• Trauma
• Neglect
• Verbal, physical, or sexual abuse
• Being bullied
• Having few or no friends
• Lack of a social support network
• Being overweight
• Not fitting in with your peers
• Looking or acting different from your peers

The cause of low confidence isn’t always clear, but genetics may play a role in addition to environmental factors. 

How can I determine if I have low self-esteem?

James meets with you to evaluate your mental health and well-being, including your self-esteem, emotions, thoughts, moods, and behaviors. He completes a psychiatric evaluation to screen for depression and other mental health disorders and determine if you have a dual diagnosis. James’s therapy sessions can boost your confidence and mood. 

Which therapies can boost self-esteem?

Community Counseling Services offers the following therapies that support self-esteem and enhance overall mental health:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Drama therapy
• Gestalt therapy
• Group therapy
• Humanistic therapy
• Integrative therapy
• Motivational interviewing
• Person-centered therapy
• Rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT)
• Schema therapy
• Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT)
• Strength-based therapy 
• Addiction treatment
• Coping skills
• Stress management
• Anger management 
• Mindfulness 
• Spirituality
• Healthy peer relationships

James also offers therapies for individuals struggling with gender identity concerns or challenges related to being in the LGBTQIA+ community.

Schedule an evaluation with James at Community Counseling Services by phone or online today to help maximize your self-esteem.