Self-esteem
We work to improve your self-knowledge, self-esteem and social skills. We help you develop a better relationship with yourself, increase your confidence and support your personal growth.
Low self-esteem is linked to various psychological difficulties (anxiety, depression, relationship problems) and is often maintained by deep beliefs about oneself and by self-criticism or avoidance. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy has been shown to be effective for improving self-esteem: it is not about forced “positive thinking” but identifying and loosening the beliefs that limit you, testing negative predictions and building a more balanced and realistic self-image. In Las Palmas de Gran Canaria at Mente y Salud we offer in-person and online therapy with a structured approach and between-session tasks.
Methodology for improving self-esteem
Low self-esteem is addressed in CBT by identifying core beliefs about yourself (e.g. “I’m not enough”, “if I show myself as I am I’ll be rejected”) and the rigid rules and standards that maintain them. We work on excessive self-criticism, comparison with others and avoidance of situations that trigger fear of rejection.
The process includes cognitive restructuring to loosen those beliefs, behavioural experiments to test negative predictions and exercises in self-compassion and recognition of achievements and qualities. The aim is to build a more balanced and realistic self-image, not inflated or dependent on external approval.
Change is gradual: first you notice small gains (e.g. expressing an opinion or accepting a compliment without disqualifying yourself) and then a more stable sense of worth. Sessions are weekly and between-session tasks (records, experiments in real situations) are an essential part of treatment.
What to expect in therapy for self-esteem
Assessment and formulation
In the first sessions we explore your history, the situations where self-esteem is affected and the thoughts that appear. We explain how your self-concept has been built and what maintains self-criticism or insecurity.
Active work
Weekly sessions with recording, restructuring and experiment tasks (e.g. expressing an opinion, saying no, accepting a compliment). Change is gradual: first small gains, then a more stable sense of worth.
Maintenance
At the end of treatment we review the new beliefs and behaviours you want to keep. Sessions are spaced and we discharge when you feel you have enough tools to continue on your own.
Components of healthy self-esteem
Frequently asked questions
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Free orientation call
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