CBT for Low Self-Esteem in Cheadle Hulme & Online
You may look capable to other people while feeling that you are never quite good enough. A mistake can feel like proof that you have failed, while positive feedback is quickly dismissed.
I offer a space to explore where these expectations come from, what keeps them going and how you would like to relate to yourself. We work towards meaningful changes in everyday life.
When Low Self-Esteem Starts to Get in the Way
You may recognise some of these experiences. Not every example will fit, and we will take time to understand what is happening for you:
- You're quick to criticise yourself and slow to give yourself credit.
- Compliments feel hard to accept, and you assume people are just being kind.
- You hold yourself to very high standards, or avoid trying in case you fall short.
- You compare yourself with others and usually come out worse.
- You find it hard to say no, ask for what you need or take up space.
- At work, you might put off applying for opportunities or feel like you'll be "found out".
- For children and teenagers, low confidence may sound like "I'm stupid" or "I can't do it", or show up as refusing to try new things or giving up quickly.
- If you're Autistic or have ADHD, years of being corrected, misunderstood or told to try harder can shape how you see yourself. Feeling "not good enough" may reflect those experiences, rather than the truth about you.
Making Sense of Self-Esteem Together
Low self-esteem is often less about one difficult day and more about a settled, harsh view of yourself, such as "I'm not good enough" or "I'm a burden." These beliefs usually have a history. They may come from criticism, bullying, loss, high pressure or repeatedly feeling different or left out.
Once a belief like this is in place, it can shape how you see each new situation. You might notice the evidence that seems to fit it and overlook what doesn't. To protect yourself, you might avoid challenges, work extremely hard to avoid mistakes or put others first all the time. These strategies make sense, but they can leave little room to discover that you're more capable or valued than the belief suggests.
For example, someone might receive mostly positive feedback at work but focus entirely on one suggestion for improvement, taking it as proof that they're failing.
Together, we can explore where your views of yourself came from, how they affect you now and what keeps them going. The aim isn't to replace them with forced positive thinking. It's to build a fairer, kinder and more balanced view of yourself, based on your real experience.
Sessions Shaped Around You
Therapy is shaped around you. In our first session, we explore how you think, communicate and learn, what feels comfortable, and what you would like support with. Adjustments are available to everyone, whether or not you have a diagnosis.
We can vary the pace, take breaks, use visual tools or written summaries, and consider sensory needs. Between-session tasks can be broken into realistic steps. If you are Autistic or have ADHD, we also consider how your experiences, attention, energy and environment affect the work, without expecting you to fit one way of doing therapy.
For children and young people, I consider developmental needs from the beginning so that materials and the approach are suitable, and review this as we work together. Parents are an essential part of therapy for younger children, helping reinforce new ways of thinking and regulating; their involvement varies with need.
Location, Fees & Common Questions
Sessions are weekly, last 50 minutes and cost £85. We can meet in person in Cheadle Hulme or online where suitable. Payment is by bank transfer within 24 hours after your session.
In-person sessions are at 11 Station Road, Cheadle Hulme, SK8 5AF. The room is quiet, has low-level lighting and is wheelchair accessible using a lift. Parking is free for up to three hours at the ASDA next door. You are welcome to bring sensory supports.
How long will therapy take?
The length of therapy depends on your needs and goals. We agree an initial plan and review the work together, rather than giving everyone the same number of sessions.
Can I ask for support even if I am managing work and everyday life?
Yes. Outwardly coping does not tell us how much effort or self-criticism is involved. We can explore the impact on you and what you would like to change.
A free 20-minute telephone or video consultation gives you space to share a little of what you are experiencing, ask questions about the process and explore your next steps.
Arrange a Free 20-Minute Consultation