Self-Esteem & Relationships therapy for clearer connection
If self-doubt keeps shaping how you show up with other people, I offer a place to look at that gently and directly. We can talk about the patterns that leave you second-guessing yourself, pulling away, or feeling stuck in the same dynamic.
What people bring me
People often come in feeling too hard on themselves, unsure of their place, or worn out by the same kinds of misunderstandings. They may keep overthinking what they said, apologizing too quickly, or staying quiet when they wish they could speak up. Relationships can start to feel draining, confusing, or oddly familiar in a way that is hard to shake. Some people know they are capable, but cannot seem to feel that way on the inside.
- I keep assuming I am the problem.
- I overthink everything I say after the conversation is over.
- I let people get close, then pull away.
- I do not trust my own judgment.
We can pay attention to the pattern without blaming you for having it.
How I work with it
I listen for the links between how you see yourself, what you expect from others, and what you do to get through each interaction. The work may include noticing old messages that still carry weight, or the ways you protect yourself by withdrawing, pleasing, or staying guarded. With individuals, we focus on your patterns and choices; with couples or family concerns, the attention may shift to how people affect one another in real time. I keep the work grounded in everyday situations, not just ideas about confidence or communication.
- CBT
- CBT helps us notice the thoughts that drive self-criticism and second-guessing. We work with how those thoughts affect what you do next.
- ACT
- ACT can help you stay connected to your values even when doubt is loud. We make room for uncomfortable feelings without letting them decide every choice.
- Psychodynamic Therapy
- We look at how earlier experiences shape the way you expect to be seen or treated now. This can bring repeating relationship patterns into view in a careful way.
What the first sessions look like
The first sessions are about understanding where the self-doubt or relationship strain shows up most. I will ask about the situations that bring it out, the roles you keep falling into, and what you wish felt different, without asking you to have it all figured out first.
Text Kristy to schedule a free 15-minute video or phone consultation. Kristy usually replies within 1–2 business days.
Questions people ask
Why do I keep ending up in the same relationship patterns?
That is something we can look at together. Often there are familiar expectations or protections that keep repeating even when you want something different.
Can therapy help if I just feel bad about myself all the time?
Yes, that is often part of the work. We can start with how self-criticism shows up in daily life and relationships.
What if I always end up people-pleasing?
We can slow that down and look at when it happens and what it is protecting. You do not need to have a perfect explanation for it.
Do you work with relationship problems too?
Yes. We can look at the relationship patterns themselves and what they are asking of you.
The practical details
- Fees
$150 per session.
- Insurance
I accept Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Carelon Behavioral Health, Cigna, Curative, Highmark BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York, Highmark BlueShield of Northeastern New York.
- Availability
Kristy is accepting new clients.
Talk it through with Kristy
Text Kristy to schedule a free 15-minute video or phone consultation.

