Can I be helped?

I appreciate you reaching out with this question. I don't think you are alone in this struggle as confidence and relationships are a common struggle. I know how difficult it can be having experienced struggles in past relationships and having to try to find a way to not let those impact current relationships. You asked if you can be helped with changing your mindset--- the answer is yes. That being said, I see you also are struggling to believe it is possible. When it comes to therapy, despite common belief, you, the client, are the one who has the work to do. Your therapist is there to guide you, provide skills and insights, and support you through the journey. It is okay to be scared and worried about if changes can be made, but you do have to be the one to make those changes. If you are open with your therapist, follow through on what is suggested and do the work then there is absolutely room to be helped. I highly suggest trying therapy out, but in the meantime maybe I can offer some suggestions. 

- Recognize and validate your feelings--- you experienced being taken advantage of, your fear is valid, but you have to find a middle ground between learning from your past and allowing it to impact your future. 

-Challenging the negative feelings--- when you have a negative thoughts about yourself or your relationship, question it. Is there a realistic reason for it? Is it fact or an assumption? What purpose is the thought serving? If you recognize it is an assumption or answer 'no' to these types of questions then it's time to challenge it. 

- There are tips for how to communicate with others, but they can be applied to yourself too. Ask yourself these questions before taking a thought to heart. -is it true? -is it helpful? - is it inspiring? - is it needed? -is it kind? if you cannot answer yes to any of those questions that it is probably not ideal to tell yourself. 

These are just a few things to start, but without knowing more about you and your situation I am limited on what tips I can advise. I hope this helps and you will seek further support on this topic. You can do it!