About self-esteem
Low self-esteem affects how we see ourselves, our relationships and our decisions. Therapy helps identify self-critical thoughts, recognise strengths and build a more realistic and kind relationship with yourself.
Psychotherapists are professionals trained in one or more models of psychotherapy (psychodynamic, systemic, humanistic, cognitive-behavioural…). The protected title and requirements vary by country; profiles show each professional’s training and registration.
Getting mental health care in French Polynesia
Public health system · Centre Hospitalier de la Polynésie française (CHPF) – psychiatry
French Polynesia runs its own health system. Public psychiatric care is provided by the adult psychiatry and child psychiatry services of the Centre Hospitalier de la Polynésie française in Pirae, Tahiti. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Agence de régulation de l'action sanitaire et sociale (ARASS). Psychologists must register their diploma with the ARASS before they start practising in French Polynesia.
- ARASS and the Ordre des médecins. Doctors must register their diploma with the ARASS and the Tribunal de première instance de Papeete, and must be enrolled with the medical order. Specialties must be recognised by the order.
- Agence de régulation de l'action sanitaire et sociale (ARASS). Speech therapists (orthophonistes) and occupational therapists (ergothérapeutes) must register their diploma with the ARASS to practise.
Urgent help in French Polynesia
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
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Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: chpf.pf, service-public.pf
Signs to look out for
Everyone doubts themselves sometimes. Low self-esteem may be holding you back when you are constantly self-critical, feel you are not good enough whatever you achieve, compare yourself unfavourably with others, struggle to accept compliments, avoid challenges for fear of failing, find it hard to say no, or feel that others’ opinions define your worth. It often accompanies anxiety or low mood.
What helps: treatments and professionals
Psychologists and psychotherapists can help you identify where your harsh inner voice comes from and develop a kinder, more realistic view of yourself. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), compassion-focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and schema therapy are commonly used. Work on assertiveness and boundaries is often included. If low self-esteem relates to body image or eating, specialised support may be needed.
When to seek urgent help
Low self-esteem alone is rarely an emergency, but it can come with depression. If feelings of worthlessness lead to thoughts of harming yourself or ending your life, contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Seek prompt help too if you are being bullied, harassed or abused, or if you are restricting food or self-harming.
What you can do in the meantime
Notice your inner critic and ask whether you would speak to a friend that way. Write down small achievements and qualities others appreciate in you. Spend time with people who treat you well and reduce exposure to content that makes you compare yourself. Try small challenges, practise saying no in low-stakes situations, and look after your body with rest and movement.
What does a psychotherapist do?
A psychotherapist helps people understand and change emotional, relational and behavioural patterns through a structured therapeutic relationship. Their work is shaped by one or more models, such as cognitive-behavioural, psychodynamic, systemic, humanistic or integrative therapy. They meet individuals, couples, families or groups, usually in regular sessions, and spend time outside sessions on notes, preparation and their own supervision.
When to see a psychotherapist
Psychotherapy suits people who want to work in depth on recurring difficulties: anxiety, low mood, relationship patterns, self-esteem, the effects of past experiences or major life transitions. It can also help when you feel stuck without a clear diagnosis. If you need a formal diagnosis, a specific psychological assessment or medication, a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist may need to be involved.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in French Polynesia cover psychological care?
French Polynesia runs its own health system. Public psychiatric care is provided by the adult psychiatry and child psychiatry services of the Centre Hospitalier de la Polynésie française in Pirae, Tahiti.
How do I check that a psychotherapist is licensed in French Polynesia?
Agence de régulation de l'action sanitaire et sociale (ARASS): Psychologists must register their diploma with the ARASS before they start practising in French Polynesia.