​Self-Esteem vs. Christ Esteem
The world loves to discuss the importance of self-esteem and its ability to improve mental wellness. True—how we see ourselves will impact how we proceed through life, but it is not the sole answer to a life well-lived. Being smart enough, good enough, or well-liked is all relative and fleeting. Because we are redeemed children of the King, we can untwist that thinking and look at ways to build ourselves up in ways that are truthful and useful to our purpose for our time of grace. In this presentation, we will focus on untwisting some of the negative thought patterns, or “distortions,” that reduce our ability to see ourselves and others in the light of grace.
My Story
Jes joined Christian Family Solutions in 2024, first as a mental health technician, then as a graduate-level counseling intern and educational presenter. She earned her BA from Bethany Lutheran College in 2007 and graduated from Bethany Lutheran College’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program in May 2025. Her eclectic life and professional experiences have informed her understanding of the human experience and interpersonal relationships.
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Jes utilizes the Adlerian concepts of purposeful and goal-oriented behavior to create meaning, the importance of social connection and community, and navigating self-perception within a systems perspective informed by the family constellation. Looking at the systems in which an individual developed and now operates can reveal important insights. Attention to purpose, belonging, and beliefs invite an integration of faith throughout the counseling process.
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Jes’s favorite Bible passage is Ephesians 2:10: “For we are God’s masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Viewing ourselves as valued creations of a loving and masterful God who offers meaningful purpose and belonging can invite hope and healing.