Episode 3: It's Your Self-Esteem Era

Welcome back, Thrivers. In this episode of Triggered but Thriving, trauma therapist and Asentriarc founder Sarah Ferland Doherty guides you through one of the most personal and misunderstood aspects of healing: self-esteem.If you’ve ever struggled to feel “good enough,” had trouble accepting compliments, or felt like your confidence comes and goes with your environment, you’re not alone — and you're not broken. Sarah walks you through how your early attachments, survival strategies, and family dynamics shaped your sense of self, and how to gently start rewriting those narratives.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why self-esteem is a state, not a fixed traitHow attachment wounds and trauma disrupt identity and confidenceThe difference between external validation and internal self-worthHow to reframe survival strategies (like people-pleasing or dissociation) into signs of strengthWhy fear of being “cocky” might be blocking your growthSimple, compassionate ways to start building your authentic self-esteem — todaySarah also shares personal stories about healing from body image trauma, relationship betrayal, and what it really means to move from anxious attachment into secure love.By the end, you'll feel a little less alone, a lot more understood, and more equipped to recognize your own worth — even on the days your inner critic gets loud.Timestamps:00:00 Welcome to your self-esteem era01:40 Why trauma disrupts self-esteem04:15 Attachment theory basics09:00 Anxious vs. avoidant development14:30 How trauma blocks self-development18:20 Projecting parents’ insecurities22:15 Survival strategies as personality28:30 Reframing people-pleasing and dissociation34:05 Building trust in self and others38:50 Sarah’s story: panic, triggers, and learning to trust again44:20 Self-esteem is a state, not a trait49:00 Thermometer check: confidence in real time52:30 Compliments, energy, and letting it land56:45 Internal vs. external sources of self-worth59:20 Catching the inner critic1:01:15 Final strategies to build authentic self-esteem1:03:15 Wrap-up and preview of Episode 4Next episode: Relationship 101 with guest Rachel Oliver RSW (@modernlovetherapist)We’re diving into healing through relationships, attachment dynamics, and how to show up more securely in love.Learn more or connect with Sarah at asentriarc.comFollow along @asentriarcSubscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode spoke to you.