Today’s world can make it seem like the only two things that matter are how fast you can succeed and who’s watching you do it. That’s neither a sustainable nor healthy outlook, but it’s so easy to find ourselves in the comparison trap.
When we compare, our flaws are amplified, and strengths minimized. It becomes normal to have low self-esteem. While it may be normal, your negative self-image isn’t healthy. And it’s not a true reflection of who you are! Thriveworks Amherst counselors are here to help you build a true self-image. (You’re pretty awesome by the way!)
Why do we do this? Because you have more potential and strengths than you know and are entirely worth it. Everyone has weaknesses. Those flaws don’t erase all the good in you. If you’re ready to look at your reflection with pride and love, Thriveworks Amherst Self-image counseling may be for you. If your self-doubts and poor self-image is hindering you from getting all you can out of life, please schedule an appointment with a Thriveworks Amherst Therapist by today by calling 413-634-4805.
What Is Self-Image?
Self-image is just a term that compiles all the ways you view yourself. Part of it is your self-esteem (how confident you are in your ability to succeed). The other parts will be different for every person. Maybe it’s how you look, your personality, success at work, social adeptness, or so much more. Some of these facets you might feel pretty good about! Others, you might think you’re the absolute worst. Self-image counseling will break down the lies so we can form an accurate image of yourself. More often than not, this is acknowledging the positive character traits we have brushed aside, or finally unwinding a lie we’ve believed about ourselves. Understanding and accepting weaknesses is also important. Thriveworks Amherst will do it all in a counseling session for Self-image.
One of the most discouraging thins about struggling with negative self-image is how we assume we’ll fail at things before we’ve even tried! Other times, we feel as if deep down, there’s something very wrong. Something that can’t be fixed.
It’s an isolating battle that feels hopeless at times. Both of those are lies your negative self-image is telling. Thriveworks Amherst has counselors who understand these lies and the toll they take inside and out and are ready to be your best guide and supporter as you build up your true self-image.
Still unconvinced Self-image counseling is worth it? We get it! To help, we’ve made a list of some symptoms that might mean negative self-image has taken over.
- Unwillingness to try new things
- Anxiety
- Self-hatred
- Laziness
- Perfectionism
- Mentally replaying mistakes
- Overthinking future decisions
- Depression
- Negative self-talk
- Codependency
- Pressure to please others
Self-image is such a simple word that carries a lot of weight. When it gets bad enough, negative self-image can cause insomnia, headaches, and fatigue. It can stop you from living life to the fullest. You deserve the best for yourself and to see yourself in the best light. Thriveworks Amherst Self-image counseling is excited to start that journey with you.
What Does Self-Image Counseling Look Like?
Thriveworks Amherst always practices a client-first philosophy. What does this mean? It means your goals, situation, and personality will help guide the counseling session. Self-image counseling is all about you! We can be your guides and offer many helpful tools along the way, but when it comes down to it, the only person who can change you is you! (We have complete faith you’ll be able to!)
Of course, all journeys are made easier with the right equipment and a good partner. Thriveworks Amherst counselors are great partners, and we have quite a few choice tools as well. During a self-image counseling session, we might:
- Explore the roots of low self-esteem
- Learn how to replace negative thoughts with positive ones
- Help you develop self-compassion
- Make reachable life goals
- Plan confidence-boosting activities in your life
- Address any co-morbid disorders that can come with negative self-image (depression, anxiety, or eating disorders are a few examples)
It takes years of unkind thoughts and harsh judgments to form a negative self-image. So, go easy on yourself- it’s going to take a lot to break the bad habits and form new ones. But we 100% believe you can and are excited to prove it to you!
It’s so easy to slip into a negative self-image. A casting glance in the mirror and self-deprecating thought seems harmless, maybe even humble. There’s a fine line between humility and negative self-image though. (One we might explore in a counseling session!) That one thought cascades into many thoughts, which turns into actions, which strengthen the thoughts. Soon they become full on beliefs that are very, very far from the truth.
Schedule Self-Image Counseling at Thriveworks Amherst
There’s nothing light or easy about struggling with negative self-image. It’s just as painful as it is real. Thriveworks Amherst knows it doesn’t have to be this way though. So, if you or a loved one suffers from self-esteem issues, call a professional therapist or counselor at 413-634-4805 today. A healthy image and freedom from the lies are a possibility you could have!
