Self Esteem Building for Young Women

Adolescence and college are times full of many changes physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. Adolescent and college females are extremely vulnerable to the influence and words of their peers. As parents you might notice that your daughter is struggling to adjust to this new period of life. They seem to distance themselves socially because they fear their peers won’t accept them. You notice that she seems timid around others and that she questions every move she makes. You have heard her say multiple times how she will never be good enough or be able to achieve her dreams. When college comes around, she struggles with becoming independent because she doubts her ability to take care of herself, manage college courses, make new friends, and find the right career for herself. You might notice that your daughter struggles to make decisions because she lacks the confidence in her abilities to make the right choice. You notice that anytime a peer makes a comment to her, she takes it as a judgment against her as a person. You can tell by the way she talks about herself that she feels worthless and unwanted.

As a parent, this can be heartbreaking, but you do not have to let your daughter settle for this limited lifestyle. I have worked with many people who have struggled with similar experiences, and it was possible for them to learn their worth and strength. By acknowledging that some of her beliefs are causing her to have a negative view of herself, she can be successful like so many others have been. When improving her thoughts, this can lead to better social skills and relationship connects that allow her to understand her true worth and value. You are not alone in this battle if you are willing to give your daughter the support and resources that she needs.

When working with adolescent and college females, I create an atmosphere that allows them to feel completely safe, accepted, and support. The environment I create with them works to eliminate the harmful experiences they have felt in the past that have help to create their feelings of worthlessness and incapability. I support them in their journey to identifying harmful thoughts and emotions and replacing them with ones that will allow them to see their worth and create the confidence that they need. By addressing these beliefs, I hope to increase their willingness to try out new experiences that lead to new abilities. I also help them to identify the strengths and abilities that they already have in themselves that they can use when confronting environments that have created these negatives feelings about themselves.

If you believe that your daughter needs support in learning of her worth and improving her self- esteem, call me today at 402-325-0117 x13 to learn more and schedule an appointment, or book an appointment online!

Shelby Henderson, M.Ed., PLMHP
Adultspan Counseling
1001 S 70th St #225
Lincoln, NE 68510