• How to Handle When Your Child Favors the Other Parent
    Mar 23 2026

    Dear Selfless Esteem,
    My 2.5-year-old daughter prefers her dad / my husband over me. I thought it was just a phase, but it's been this way for over a year. I'm her primary caregiver but he's home often. I make sure to play with her, and I'm the only one to take her on outings like the library and such, but when she gets upset or hurt, she only wants dada for comfort. She wants to leap out of my arms to him always. It makes me so sad. Why is this happening? He's such an incredible dad but I wish she wanted us equally.
    Signed,
    Second Favorite

    Tune in for the answer.

    If you're interested in online therapy in Texas, California and Louisiana: Selfless-Esteem.com

    It's free to submit an anonymous question at GinaLeggio.com. The answer could be featured in a blog post, YouTube video, and/or podcast episode.

    About me:
    I'm Gina Leggio, and I've been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2002. I'm licensed in the following states: CA, TX, and LA. I've provided mental health services for all ages up to 96 years old at a convalescent hospital, a juvenile detention center, intensive field-based programs, a shelter, community mental health centers, a community college, and various elementary schools and high schools. In addition to providing services directly, I've clinically supervised approximately 1,000 cases.

    If you're in imminent danger, call 911. If you need immediate assistance, go to the nearest emergency room. If you're in crisis, Text HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor. If you're having suicidal thoughts, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Another option is to use the chat feature at Lifeline Chat. There are also suicide hotlines in each state listed on suicide.org. For other countries, see Wikipedia's list of suicide crisis lines.

    This podcast episode by Gina Leggio and Selfless Esteem, PLLC, is meant for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to amount to professional or specific advice on which reliance should be placed. The information is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis, or treatment regarding medical or mental health conditions. Listening to the podcast does not establish any kind of professional-client relationship. Although Gina Leggio strives to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for services of a medical, legal or mental health professional, and you should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in your area prior to making any professional, legal, financial or tax related decisions. Always consult your physician before making any decisions regarding your physical or mental health.

    Copyright Selfless Esteem, PLLC
    Music copyright: Gina Maria Leggio, Selfless Esteem
    Any and all Scripture quotations are from the World English Bible™ Updated (WEBU) version; "World English Bible" is a Trademark of eBible.org.

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    5 mins
  • A Brief Devotional about Decreasing Fear, Doubt, and Anger
    Mar 16 2026

    Today's episode is a devotional, in which we learn from the mistakes of King Jeroboam, Moses, Peter and the disciples. Let's dive into the stories in 1 Kings 12:26-33, Mark 8:1-10, Matthew 14:22-33, Numbers 20:10-13, and Deuteronomy 3:23-28.

    If you're interested in online therapy in Texas, California and Louisiana: Selfless-Esteem.com

    It's free to submit an anonymous question at GinaLeggio.com. The answer could be featured in a blog post, YouTube video, and/or podcast episode.

    About me:
    I'm Gina Leggio, and I've been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2002. I'm licensed in the following states: CA, TX, and LA. I've provided mental health services for all ages up to 96 years old at a convalescent hospital, a juvenile detention center, intensive field-based programs, a shelter, community mental health centers, a community college, and various elementary schools and high schools. In addition to providing services directly, I've clinically supervised approximately 1,000 cases.

    If you're in imminent danger, call 911. If you need immediate assistance, go to the nearest emergency room. If you're in crisis, Text HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor. If you're having suicidal thoughts, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Another option is to use the chat feature at Lifeline Chat. There are also suicide hotlines in each state listed on suicide.org. For other countries, see Wikipedia's list of suicide crisis lines.

    This podcast episode by Gina Leggio and Selfless Esteem, PLLC, is meant for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to amount to professional or specific advice on which reliance should be placed. The information is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis, or treatment regarding medical or mental health conditions. Listening to the podcast does not establish any kind of professional-client relationship. Although Gina Leggio strives to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for services of a medical, legal or mental health professional, and you should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in your area prior to making any professional, legal, financial or tax related decisions. Always consult your physician before making any decisions regarding your physical or mental health.

    Copyright Selfless Esteem, PLLC
    Music copyright: Gina Maria Leggio, Selfless Esteem
    Any and all Scripture quotations are from the World English Bible™ Updated (WEBU) version; "World English Bible" is a Trademark of eBible.org.

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    6 mins
  • Where to Find Online Therapy in California, Texas, and Louisiana
    Mar 9 2026

    Today's episode is a reading of VoyageHouston's interview with me in their Community Highlights.

    If you're interested in online therapy in Texas, California and Louisiana: Selfless-Esteem.com

    It's free to submit an anonymous question at GinaLeggio.com. The answer could be featured in a blog post, YouTube video, and/or podcast episode.

    About me:
    I'm Gina Leggio, and I've been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2002. I'm licensed in the following states: CA, TX, and LA. I've provided mental health services for all ages up to 96 years old at a convalescent hospital, a juvenile detention center, intensive field-based programs, a shelter, community mental health centers, a community college, and various elementary schools and high schools. In addition to providing services directly, I've clinically supervised approximately 1,000 cases.

    If you're in imminent danger, call 911. If you need immediate assistance, go to the nearest emergency room. If you're in crisis, Text HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor. If you're having suicidal thoughts, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Another option is to use the chat feature at Lifeline Chat. There are also suicide hotlines in each state listed on suicide.org. For other countries, see Wikipedia's list of suicide crisis lines.

    This podcast episode by Gina Leggio and Selfless Esteem, PLLC, is meant for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to amount to professional or specific advice on which reliance should be placed. The information is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis, or treatment regarding medical or mental health conditions. Listening to the podcast does not establish any kind of professional-client relationship. Although Gina Leggio strives to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for services of a medical, legal or mental health professional, and you should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in your area prior to making any professional, legal, financial or tax related decisions. Always consult your physician before making any decisions regarding your physical or mental health.

    Copyright Selfless Esteem, PLLC
    Music copyright: Gina Maria Leggio, Selfless Esteem
    Any and all Scripture quotations are from the World English Bible™ Updated (WEBU) version; "World English Bible" is a Trademark of eBible.org.

    Show More Show Less
    9 mins
  • Frugal Spouse Desperately Seeks Solution with Spendthrift Husband
    Mar 2 2026

    Dear Selfless Esteem,
    My husband is a spender and I'm a saver. When we were dating, he treated me to expensive restaurants and the best seats at concerts and sports events. Then when we got married, I ended up sharing the responsibility of paying off those charges on the credit card he maxed out. Now that it's finally paid off, he's been looking online at boats for sale but I think that's such a frivolous expense. How can I help him understand that we need to save for retirement? Whenever I tell him my viewpoint, he just gets angry.
    Signed,
    Pinching Pennies

    Tune in for the answer.

    It's free to submit an anonymous question at GinaLeggio.com. The answer could be featured in a blog post, YouTube video, and/or podcast episode.

    If you're interested in online therapy in Texas, California and Louisiana: Selfless-Esteem.com

    About me:
    I'm Gina Leggio, and I've been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2002. I'm licensed in the following states: CA, TX, and LA. I've provided mental health services for all ages up to 96 years old at a convalescent hospital, a juvenile detention center, intensive field-based programs, a shelter, community mental health centers, a community college, and various elementary schools and high schools. In addition to providing services directly, I've clinically supervised approximately 1,000 cases.

    If you're in imminent danger, call 911. If you need immediate assistance, go to the nearest emergency room. If you're in crisis, Text HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor. If you're having suicidal thoughts, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Another option is to use the chat feature at Lifeline Chat. There are also suicide hotlines in each state listed on suicide.org. For other countries, see Wikipedia's list of suicide crisis lines.

    This podcast episode by Gina Leggio and Selfless Esteem, PLLC, is meant for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to amount to professional or specific advice on which reliance should be placed. The information is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis, or treatment regarding medical or mental health conditions. Listening to the podcast does not establish any kind of professional-client relationship. Although Gina Leggio strives to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for services of a medical, legal or mental health professional, and you should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in your area prior to making any professional, legal, financial or tax related decisions. Always consult your physician before making any decisions regarding your physical or mental health.

    Copyright Selfless Esteem, PLLC
    Music copyright: Gina Maria Leggio, Selfless Esteem
    Any and all Scripture quotations are from the World English Bible™ Updated (WEBU) version; "World English Bible" is a Trademark of eBible.org.

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    4 mins
  • 20 Thought-Provoking Journal Prompts for Mental Health
    Feb 23 2026

    Dear Selfless Esteem,
    You usually suggest writing in a journal. Can you say more about that? I'm so tired at the end of the day that the thought of picking up a pen is like picking up a heavy weight. I need to be convinced of the benefit before adding this to my packed daily routine.
    Signed,
    Writer's Block

    Tune in for the answer.

    It's free to submit an anonymous question at GinaLeggio.com. The answer could be featured in a blog post, YouTube video, and/or podcast episode.

    If you're interested in online therapy in Texas, California and Louisiana: Selfless-Esteem.com

    About me:
    I'm Gina Leggio, and I've been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2002. I'm licensed in the following states: CA, TX, and LA. I've provided mental health services for all ages up to 96 years old at a convalescent hospital, a juvenile detention center, intensive field-based programs, a shelter, community mental health centers, a community college, and various elementary schools and high schools. In addition to providing services directly, I've clinically supervised approximately 1,000 cases.

    If you're in imminent danger, call 911. If you need immediate assistance, go to the nearest emergency room. If you're in crisis, Text HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor. If you're having suicidal thoughts, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Another option is to use the chat feature at Lifeline Chat. There are also suicide hotlines in each state listed on suicide.org. For other countries, see Wikipedia's list of suicide crisis lines.

    This podcast episode by Gina Leggio and Selfless Esteem, PLLC, is meant for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to amount to professional or specific advice on which reliance should be placed. The information is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis, or treatment regarding medical or mental health conditions. Listening to the podcast does not establish any kind of professional-client relationship. Although Gina Leggio strives to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for services of a medical, legal or mental health professional, and you should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in your area prior to making any professional, legal, financial or tax related decisions. Always consult your physician before making any decisions regarding your physical or mental health.

    Copyright Selfless Esteem, PLLC
    Music copyright: Gina Maria Leggio, Selfless Esteem
    Any and all Scripture quotations are from the World English Bible™ Updated (WEBU) version; "World English Bible" is a Trademark of eBible.org.

    Show More Show Less
    5 mins
  • The Top 5 Things to Have When You're Engaged
    Feb 16 2026

    Dear Selfless Esteem,
    I'm engaged to a wonderful man. We met years ago but we were both in relationships at the time. When we met again last year, we were both single and started dating. He lives in CA and I'm in FLA so I'll be moving across the country soon. Right now, everything is really good. I'd like to keep it that way. Any advice?
    Signed,
    Blissful Bride

    Tune in for the answer.

    It's free to submit an anonymous question at GinaLeggio.com. The answer could be featured in a blog post, YouTube video, and/or podcast episode.

    If you're interested in online therapy in Texas, California and Louisiana: Selfless-Esteem.com

    About me:
    I'm Gina Leggio, and I've been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2002. I'm licensed in the following states: CA, TX, and LA. I've provided mental health services for all ages up to 96 years old at a convalescent hospital, a juvenile detention center, intensive field-based programs, a shelter, community mental health centers, a community college, and various elementary schools and high schools. In addition to providing services directly, I've clinically supervised approximately 1,000 cases.

    If you're in imminent danger, call 911. If you need immediate assistance, go to the nearest emergency room. If you're in crisis, Text HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor. If you're having suicidal thoughts, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Another option is to use the chat feature at Lifeline Chat. There are also suicide hotlines in each state listed on suicide.org. For other countries, see Wikipedia's list of suicide crisis lines.

    This podcast episode by Gina Leggio and Selfless Esteem, PLLC, is meant for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to amount to professional or specific advice on which reliance should be placed. The information is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis, or treatment regarding medical or mental health conditions. Listening to the podcast does not establish any kind of professional-client relationship. Although Gina Leggio strives to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for services of a medical, legal or mental health professional, and you should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in your area prior to making any professional, legal, financial or tax related decisions. Always consult your physician before making any decisions regarding your physical or mental health.

    Copyright Selfless Esteem, PLLC
    Music copyright: Gina Maria Leggio, Selfless Esteem
    Any and all Scripture quotations are from the World English Bible™ Updated (WEBU) version; "World English Bible" is a Trademark of eBible.org.

    Show More Show Less
    5 mins
  • How To Be Happy Single
    Feb 9 2026

    Dear Selfless Esteem,
    I've always had a girlfriend since high school. My most recent relationship just ended. I don't want to be alone, but I feel like I should take a break. How can I be single without being lonely?
    Signed,
    Lonely Ranger

    Tune in for the answer.

    It's free to submit an anonymous question at GinaLeggio.com. The answer could be featured in a blog post, YouTube video, and/or podcast episode.

    If you're interested in online therapy in Texas, California and Louisiana: Selfless-Esteem.com

    About me:
    I'm Gina Leggio, and I've been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2002. I'm licensed in the following states: CA, TX, and LA. I've provided mental health services for all ages up to 96 years old at a convalescent hospital, a juvenile detention center, intensive field-based programs, a shelter, community mental health centers, a community college, and various elementary schools and high schools. In addition to providing services directly, I've clinically supervised approximately 1,000 cases.

    If you're in imminent danger, call 911. If you need immediate assistance, go to the nearest emergency room. If you're in crisis, Text HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor. If you're having suicidal thoughts, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Another option is to use the chat feature at Lifeline Chat. There are also suicide hotlines in each state listed on suicide.org. For other countries, see Wikipedia's list of suicide crisis lines.

    This podcast episode by Gina Leggio and Selfless Esteem, PLLC, is meant for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to amount to professional or specific advice on which reliance should be placed. The information is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis, or treatment regarding medical or mental health conditions. Listening to the podcast does not establish any kind of professional-client relationship. Although Gina Leggio strives to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for services of a medical, legal or mental health professional, and you should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in your area prior to making any professional, legal, financial or tax related decisions. Always consult your physician before making any decisions regarding your physical or mental health.

    Copyright Selfless Esteem, PLLC
    Music copyright: Gina Maria Leggio, Selfless Esteem
    Any and all Scripture quotations are from the World English Bible™ Updated (WEBU) version; "World English Bible" is a Trademark of eBible.org.

    Show More Show Less
    5 mins
  • How To Raise Children Who Feel Loved and Connected
    Feb 2 2026

    Here's the audio version of Authority Magazine's interview with me.

    It's free to submit an anonymous question at GinaLeggio.com. The answer could be featured in a blog post, YouTube video, and/or podcast episode.

    If you're interested in online therapy in Texas, California and Louisiana: Selfless-Esteem.com

    About me:
    I'm Gina Leggio, and I've been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2002. I'm licensed in the following states: CA, TX, and LA. I've provided mental health services for all ages up to 96 years old at a convalescent hospital, a juvenile detention center, intensive field-based programs, a shelter, community mental health centers, a community college, and various elementary schools and high schools. In addition to providing services directly, I've clinically supervised approximately 1,000 cases.

    If you're in imminent danger, call 911. If you need immediate assistance, go to the nearest emergency room. If you're in crisis, Text HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor. If you're having suicidal thoughts, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Another option is to use the chat feature at Lifeline Chat. There are also suicide hotlines in each state listed on suicide.org. For other countries, see Wikipedia's list of suicide crisis lines.

    This podcast episode by Gina Leggio and Selfless Esteem, PLLC, is meant for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to amount to professional or specific advice on which reliance should be placed. The information is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis, or treatment regarding medical or mental health conditions. Listening to the podcast does not establish any kind of professional-client relationship. Although Gina Leggio strives to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for services of a medical, legal or mental health professional, and you should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in your area prior to making any professional, legal, financial or tax related decisions. Always consult your physician before making any decisions regarding your physical or mental health.

    Copyright Selfless Esteem, PLLC
    Music copyright: Gina Maria Leggio, Selfless Esteem
    Any and all Scripture quotations are from the World English Bible™ Updated (WEBU) version; "World English Bible" is a Trademark of eBible.org.

    Show More Show Less
    19 mins