Concerns
Self-esteem & confidence
Some people carry a commentator who narrates everything they do — harshly. It compares, catastrophises, and takes compliments as errors. Low self-worth isn't a personality; it's a learned pattern, usually with an origin story. Patterns that were learned can be unlearned.
Signs it might be time to talk
- A relentless inner critic grading your every move
- Difficulty accepting praise without deflecting it
- People-pleasing and over-apologising
- Comparing yourself to everyone, everywhere, always
- Imposter feelings at work or in relationships
- Settling — in jobs, love, friendships — for less than you'd advise anyone else to accept
These signs are informational, not a diagnosis. Only a qualified professional, in conversation with you, can assess what's going on.
How counselling helps
- Trace where the critic's voice was learned
- Practise self-compassion that isn't self-indulgence
- Build boundaries and honest asks
- Collect evidence for a fairer story about yourself
Approaches that often fit
Fair questions
Asked often, answered honestly
Keep reading
Gentle related reads
Your first therapy session: what actually happens
No couch, no interrogation, no judgement. A gentle walkthrough of the first 50 minutes, so the unknown stops being the scariest part.
5 min read
Burnout is not laziness: signs, science, and a way back
Exhaustion that sleep doesn't fix, cynicism that wasn't there before, work that feels pointless — burnout has a shape, and a way out.
6 min read
Ready when you are. Truly — no pressure.
Start with a private intro consultation — a full hour, one-to-one with a counsellor, about whatever's on your mind.
Need help right now? Crisis support is here, 24×7.