Identity and Self Esteem
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Teen Identity and Self-Esteem Therapy in Santa Monica & Los Angeles
Adolescence is fundamentally about identity — figuring out who you are, what you value, and where you belong. For many teenagers, this process is complicated by social pressure, family expectations, experiences of failure or rejection, or questions about gender, sexuality, culture, and belonging that the adults around them may not fully understand.
Dr. Sally Hackman, PhD, MFT, provides a genuinely open, affirming space for teenagers in Santa Monica and Los Angeles to explore identity with curiosity rather than pressure — and to build the self-esteem that comes from being truly known and accepted.
Key Points
Supporting Your Teen's Sense of Self.
Empowering Resilience
Help your teenager develop a stable, positive sense of self that is based on their genuine values and strengths — rather than external approval or social comparison.
Healing Space
A completely confidential, non-judgmental space where teenagers can explore any aspect of their identity — including gender, sexuality, cultural identity, and belonging — without fear of judgment.
Transformative Support
Dr. Hackman provides LGBTQ+-affirming therapy for teenagers and has extensive experience with the particular identity challenges facing adolescents in contemporary Los Angeles.
OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU
Your Teen's Wellbeing Is Our Priority.
A teenager who knows who they are — who has a secure sense of their own value and a relationship with their own inner life — is far more resilient in the face of social pressure, academic stress, and the other challenges of adolescence.
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Years of Teen Therapy Experience
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Serving Santa Monica Continuously
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Confidential — Always
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First Session Free If You Don't Return
FAQ
Common Questions
The most important thing is to keep the lines of communication open and to let your teenager know they are loved unconditionally. Dr. Hackman offers LGBTQ+-affirming therapy and can also provide parent consultations to help you navigate this with your teen.
Mild self-consciousness is typical in adolescence. But persistent, significant low self-esteem that is affecting a teenager's daily functioning, relationships, or happiness warrants professional attention.