Self-Esteem, Gaslighting & Inner Critics

What it is. Years of manipulation or bullying create chronic self-doubt, harsh inner critics, and low self-esteem. Gaslighting warps reality testing, leaving survivors questioning their perceptions.

What the research says. Schema Therapy identifies core beliefs ("I'm unlovable") formed in childhood; Keith Witt's "Who's Driving the Bus?" metaphor shows how wounded parts hijack behavior. Positive psychology and compassionate mind training rebuild self-trust.

How I help. I map limiting schemas, introduce daily self-validation rituals, and deploy IFS to give critics new roles as discerning--but not destructive--advisors. Boundary practice and reality-checking exercises inoculate you against future gaslighting.