Low Self-Esteem Therapy in Calgary
Structured, evidence-based therapy to help adults build self-confidence, challenge negative self-beliefs, and strengthen self-worth
Low Self-Esteem Therapy in Calgary helps adults understand patterns of self-criticism, develop a more balanced self-view, and build confidence in daily life.
At Clear Minds Psychology, therapy is provided by a Registered Psychologist and uses evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to support meaningful, lasting change.
If you’re considering therapy for low self-esteem, a brief consultation can help you determine whether this approach feels like the right fit.
What Is Low Self-Esteem?
Low self-esteem involves a persistent negative view of yourself, your abilities, or your worth. These patterns can affect how you think, feel, and behave, often leading to avoidance, self-doubt, or difficulty recognising your strengths.
Over time, low self-esteem can impact relationships, work, and overall well-being. With the right support, these patterns can be understood and gradually changed.
Common Causes of Low Self-Esteem
Low self-esteem often develops over time and may be influenced by:
- Early experiences such as criticism, neglect, or high expectations
- Bullying or social rejection
- Difficult or critical relationships
- Workplace stress or perceived failure
- Cultural or societal pressures
- Trauma or adverse experiences
Understanding these influences can help guide meaningful and lasting change.
If you’re unsure whether your experiences may be affecting you in this way, speaking with a psychologist can help clarify your next steps.

Signs and Symptoms of Low Self-Esteem
Low self-esteem can show up in different ways. Common signs include:
- Frequent self-criticism or negative self-talk
- Fear of making mistakes or being judged
- Difficulty accepting compliments
- Avoiding challenges or new opportunities
- Comparing yourself negatively to others
- Putting others’ needs ahead of your own
- Feeling undeserving of success or happiness
Recognising these patterns is an important first step toward building a more balanced and supportive self-view.
How Low Self-Esteem Therapy Works
Therapy focuses on identifying and shifting patterns that maintain low self-esteem while building more helpful ways of relating to yourself. Approaches are tailored to your needs and may include:
- Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) – Identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts, replacing them with more balanced and realistic persepctives
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – Develop self-acceptance and take action guided by your values rather than self-doubt
- Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) – Process past experiences that may continue to influence your self-image
- Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy – Reduce the emotional impact of earlier experiences linked to negative beliefs about yourself
These approaches work together to strengthen confidence, self-awareness, and emotional resilience.


What to Expect from Therapy for Low Self Esteem
Therapy is collaborative, structured, and paced to feel manageable. In early sessions, we will:
- Explore patterns of self-criticism and self-doubt
- Identify contributing experiences and beliefs
- Develop a personalised plan based on your goals
Over time, therapy focuses on building confidence, improving self-compassion, and helping you approach challenges with greater ease.
Considering Low Self Esteem Therapy?
A brief consultation can help you understand how these approaches apply to your specific situation.
Benefits of Low Self-Esteem Therapy in Calgary
With consistent support, many clients experience:
- A more balanced and realistic self-view
- Increased confidence in relationships and work
- Reduced fear of judgement or failure
- Improved decision-making and assertiveness
- Greater self-compassion and emotional resilience
- A stronger sense of worth and capability
Who I Work With
I work primarily with:
- Adults (18+)
- Seniors
- Working professionals
- University students
- Individuals across Calgary and Alberta
My practice focuses on individual therapy. If you are seeking couples or family therapy, I can help direct you to appropriate resources.
If this sounds like your situation, you’re welcome to reach out to explore whether low self esteem therapy may be helpful.
Professional Credentials
- Registered Psychologist, Province of Alberta (College of Alberta Psychologists)
- Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology (MACP), Yorkville University
- Advanced training in EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
- Member of Psychologists’ Association of Alberta (PAA) and IS-ART
- Contributor, Alberta Senior Living Magazine — Spring Mental Health Check-In: Managing Anxiety, SAD Transitions & Light Exposure
About the Psychologist
Michelle Fox is a Registered Psychologist in Calgary with over 30 years of clinical experience working with adults and seniors. She supports individuals experiencing low self-esteem, self-doubt, and related concerns using evidence-based approaches tailored to each person.
Michelle provides a supportive, non-judgmental space to help clients understand their patterns, build confidence, and develop a more compassionate and balanced relationship with themselves.
Learn more about Michelle Fox, Registered Psychologist in Calgary.
FAQ: Low Self Esteem Therapy in Calgary
What is low self-esteem?
Low self-esteem involves negative beliefs about yourself and your abilities, often affecting confidence and decision-making.
What causes low self-esteem?
It can develop from past experiences, criticism, or ongoing patterns of negative thinking.
How does therapy help improve self-esteem?
Therapy helps identify unhelpful beliefs and develop more balanced, realistic self-perceptions.
How long does therapy for low self-esteem take?
The timeline varies depending on your goals and the factors contributing to low self-esteem. Many people begin noticing changes as they practise new ways of thinking and relating to themselves.
Can self-esteem therapy be done online?
Yes. Yes. Online therapy provides a comfortable space to explore personal challenges. Online therapy os available across Alberta using secure video sessions and offers the same structured, evidence-based care as in-person appointments.
How do I get started with low self-esteem therapy in Calgary?
A free consultation can help you decide if therapy feels like the right fit. From there, an initial session can be scheduled and a plan developed based on your needs.
Book a Free Consultation
If you are considering therapy for low self esteem, a brief consultation can help you determine whether this approach feels like the right fit.
Clear Minds Psychology offers low self-esteem therapy in Calgary and online across Alberta, offering structured, evidence-based support tailored to your needs.
You can book a free consultation to discuss your concerns and next steps.
