EMDR Therapy for Self-Esteem & People Pleasing

Navigating the complexities of low self-esteem and people pleasing is a challenging journey, marked by an emotional rollercoaster of self-doubt and the constant need for external validation. Many who struggle with self-esteem find themselves overly focused on pleasing others, sacrificing their own needs in an effort to gain acceptance and avoid rejection. This cycle creates an internal tug-of-war between the desire to be true to oneself and the overwhelming pressure to conform to others’ expectations, leading to persistent anxiety and inner conflict.

EMDR therapy offers a promising path to break this cycle by addressing the root causes of both low self-esteem and people-pleasing behaviors. By reprocessing past experiences that have contributed to these patterns, EMDR helps you develop a more balanced self-view and a stronger sense of personal worth. This therapeutic approach paves the way for reclaiming the joy of authentic living, empowering you to set healthy boundaries and foster self-assurance in every aspect of your life.

Improve your Self-Esteem and Live Purposefully

Overcome issues with low self-esteem by addressing underlying traumas through integrative EMDR therapy.

Rebecca Hoffenberg, Psy.D
Clinical Psychologist
Expertises
Self-esteem, loss of identity & people pleasing
Approach
Relational EMDR, trauma-informed & attachment-focused
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Ami Zala, Psy.D
Clinical Psychologist
Expertises
Self-esteem, self-worth & rejection fears
Approach
EMDR, attachment-focused & childhood-focused
Read more
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How We Work with Self-Esteem & People Pleasing

Our therapists, Clinical Psychologists specializing in EMDR, combine this with other validated therapeutic techniques to help individuals overcome challenges related to confidence and self-esteem, particularly those stemming from trauma. They adeptly treat adults facing a spectrum of issues, from deep-rooted self-doubt and low self-worth to specific concerns like social anxiety and negative self-perception, often linked to past traumatic experiences. The objective extends beyond merely enhancing self-confidence; it involves guiding clients to transcend the simplistic self-view of being 'adequate' or 'inadequate' and break the cycle of self-criticism and neglect that trauma often exacerbates.

Their approach is distinct due to a profound understanding of how trauma intertwines with confidence and self-esteem issues. With their doctorates in Clinical Psychology and specific training in these areas, they utilize EMDR's impactful strategies to help clients unearth and reinforce inner strength, while concurrently employing CBT, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, and analytic therapy to navigate and resolve the internal conflicts borne from trauma, thus fostering a healthier self-image. In this way, they lead individuals on a complex journey of cultivating self-confidence and self-esteem, recognizing that the challenge is not solely about personal development but about liberating oneself from the entangling cycle of trauma-induced self-doubt and self-limitation, which can cause profound mental and emotional distress.

"Our therapists explore how trauma influences self-esteem, acknowledging that such issues often stem from deep-seated emotional wounds, leading to internal conflicts that affect one's sense of self-worth."

Our Specialists in EMDR for Self-Esteem & Confidence

Dr. Rebecca Hoffenberg

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Hoffenberg specializes in addressing issues related to self-esteem, loss of identity, and people pleasing—challenges that often arise from past traumatic experiences. Her advanced training encompasses not only EMDR but also a specialized focus on relational EMDR, trauma-informed care, and attachment-focused techniques. This unique combination allows her to effectively guide clients through the process of uncovering and healing the underlying causes of their difficulties.

Her approach is designed to reprocess painful memories and dismantle the negative core beliefs that contribute to low self-esteem and a diminished sense of self. Clients who struggle with identity loss and an overwhelming need to please others often find themselves trapped in cycles of self-doubt and social anxiety. Through relational EMDR, Dr. Hoffenberg helps them rebuild their self-worth by directly addressing the relational trauma that underpins these behaviors. In a safe, empathetic environment, she supports individuals as they reclaim their authentic selves, establish healthy boundaries, and cultivate more fulfilling relationships with both themselves and others.

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Dr. Ami Zala

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Zala specializes in addressing deep-rooted issues that stem from early childhood experiences, particularly those affecting self-esteem, identity, and the need to please others. With an approach that is both attachment-focused and childhood-focused, she understands how formative relationships shape our perceptions of ourselves and our interactions with others. Her work targets the early wounds of rejection and dependency, which can lead to ongoing struggles with self-worth and interpersonal challenges.

Utilizing the transformative power of EMDR, Dr. Zala helps clients reprocess painful childhood memories and dismantle the negative core beliefs that have held them back. Her advanced, compassionate methods are designed to restore a healthier self-image and foster secure attachment patterns, empowering individuals to reclaim their authentic identities and set meaningful boundaries. Through this integrated approach, clients can begin to experience more fulfilling relationships and a renewed sense of confidence in every aspect of their lives.

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How EMDR Helps with Self-Esteem & People Pleasing

Many people don't realize that their confidence and self-esteem issues are often rooted in childhood or relational trauma. When individuals come to us, they have usually tried various therapies, which might have offered some relief but didn't fully address their lingering struggles with self-confidence and self-esteem. This is where Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) proves to be highly effective. EMDR specifically targets the deep-seated causes of these issues, going beyond the scope of traditional therapy methods that tend to focus only on surface-level symptoms.

EMDR delves into traumatic memories and negative beliefs, often stemming from early life experiences, which are crucial in shaping one's self-perception. By processing these past experiences, individuals can adopt healthier beliefs and build a stronger sense of self-worth.

Research supports the effectiveness of EMDR in addressing issues related to confidence and self-esteem. Studies in psychological journals have shown that EMDR can significantly reduce the lingering effects of childhood and relational traumas that contribute to low self-esteem and self-confidence. The ability of EMDR to disrupt and transform the negative associations stemming from emotional pain and adverse experiences plays a key role in fostering improved self-esteem and confidence.

FAQ About EMDR for Confidence & Self-Esteem

What is EMDR and how does it work for confidence and self-esteem?

EMDR is a psychotherapy technique that helps process and reduce the distress of traumatic or disturbing experiences that may impact self-esteem and confidence. It involves recalling distressing events while receiving bilateral sensory input, like side-to-side eye movements, to alleviate the emotional impact.

Is EMDR safe? Are there any risks?

EMDR is generally safe but can bring up intense emotions as it involves processing past traumas. It's crucial to undergo EMDR with a trained and licensed therapist.

What's the success rate of EMDR in treating confidence and self-esteem issues?

Success rates vary, but many individuals report significant improvements in self-esteem and confidence after undergoing EMDR therapy.

Who is eligible for EMDR therapy for confidence and self-esteem?

Anyone struggling with self-esteem and confidence issues, particularly those related to past traumatic experiences, can benefit from EMDR therapy.

Ready To Build Your Confidence?

Start a journey where self-compassion and building self-confidence go hand in hand. Let us lead you toward a more empowered mindset, helping you break free from undermining patterns and nurturing a sense of inner strength and positive self-regard.