Self-Esteem
What is Self-Esteem?
Self-esteem refers to the beliefs and attitudes we hold about ourselves – such as feeling worthy, loved, capable, and confident. It reflects how much we value ourselves and how deserving we feel of respect, happiness, and care. Self-esteem influences how we think, feel, and behave.
When self-esteem is healthy, we tend to feel confident in our abilities, accept compliments, set boundaries without guilt, and respond to challenges with self-compassion. We’re able to learn from mistakes, recognise our strengths, and treat ourselves with kindness – especially during difficult times.
In contrast, low self-esteem often involves harsh self-judgement, frequent self-criticism, and a tendency to minimise personal achievements.
What Contributes to Low Self-Esteem?
Low self-esteem often develops over time and is shaped by a range of life experiences. During childhood, we begin to form beliefs about ourselves based on the messages we receive from those around us – such as our parents, caregivers, teachers, and peers. These messages, whether positive or negative, can significantly influence how we view our worth.
Other influences, including social media and challenging life events – such as bereavement, trauma, or prolonged stress – can also affect our self-esteem. Personality traits such as perfectionism, sensitivity to criticism, or a tendency toward negative thinking may also contribute.
Importantly, self-esteem is not fixed. It can be nurtured and strengthened at any stage of life. Therapeutic support, habit change, and mindset shifts can all contribute to a more balanced and resilient sense of self-worth and confidence.
Common Symptoms
- Frequent self-criticism or being overly harsh on yourself
- Feeling uncomfortable receiving compliments or positive feedback
- Avoiding challenges due to fear of failure or not being good enough
- Over-apologising or feeling responsible for others’ emotions
- Seeking external validation but still feeling inadequate
- Withdrawing from social situations or finding it difficult to connect
- Feelings of low mood, sadness, or depression
- Feelings of anxiety, shame, or worry, especially in social situations
- Reduced motivation and lack of enjoyment in activities
How We Can Help
We offer cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), an evidence-based approach that explores the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. CBT for low self-esteem is structured and goal-focused, helping individuals identify and challenge negative self-beliefs, reduce self-critical thinking, and build confidence through small, meaningful changes.
It also supports the development of self-compassion, assertiveness, and healthy boundaries. Over time, CBT promotes a more balanced and positive view of oneself, grounded in personal strengths and lived experience.
Our therapy is compassionate, tailored to your individual needs, and available both in person and remotely via phone or online sessions.
Your Free Consultation
- 20-minute session by phone or online
- A friendly, informal chat at a time that suits you
- Brief discussion about your challenges and goals
- Overview of how evidence-based therapy could support you
- Time to ask any questions
- No pressure, just a chance to see if we’re the right fit
Our Approach
We understand that taking the first step towards therapy can feel daunting. That’s why we’re passionate about ensuring you feel heard, understood, and respected from the very start. Our approach is warm, down-to-earth, and rooted in evidence-based therapies designed to support meaningful, lasting change. You will be treated with compassion, respect, and discretion, with a focus on creating a supportive and comfortable experience.