Self Esteem Counselling

As we explore together what has contributed to your low self-esteem-significant people in your life, past experiences, social influences, your personal expectations-we will also reflect on your values. We will begin to identify your response patterns that may or may not be helpful, and the ways you are with yourself in certain situations or with specific people. Your critic may be harsh or judgemental in tone, and may be playing a big role in making you feel bad about yourself. At the same time, there’s something in you that may be struggling and feeling alone – this is a side of you that is the recipient of your inner critic’s harshness and criticism. Both sides are there in you, creating an internal conflict that’s confusing and difficult to be with.

In our sessions together, you will come to understand a side of you that you may not like, such as one that pushes you to be a perfectionist, or that has you comparing yourself to others, or one that has you avoiding certain situations. All of these may leave you falling short-or feeling that you’re falling short-of personal or social expectations. Feeling inadequate, substandard, or a failure significantly contributes to your self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-worth. Recognising and bringing awareness to your typical response patterns is an important step toward changing them.

Learn to notice your thoughts, your body and your feelings and to be with them without judgment. This will allow you to develop a greater understanding of your internal experiences. Pausing and being mindful can help you respond to self-esteem challenges with more clarity and self-compassion.

Explore and develop your coping strategies for when you are in situations that trigger low self-esteem. This may involve setting healthy boundaries, practicing self-care, engaging in activities that boost your self-confidence, and developing your unique, authentic self.

An experiential approach for self esteem in our sessions works towards understanding your strengths, setting achievable goals, acknowledging your accomplishments, and developing inner relationships with specific sides of you unique to you. Developing your self-esteem is an ongoing process that you can help support by practicing self-care that prioritises your well-being.