Self-Esteem Counselling for Renewed Confidence - Boost Your Worth

Low Self-Esteem Symptoms

Those struggling with low self-esteem often have a persistent self-doubt, sensitivity to criticism, and a constant need for validation. Individuals might avoid chances to try new things due to a deep fear of failure, and often have negative beliefs in comparison to others, downplay their achievements, and struggle to make decisions. Social withdrawal and reluctance to trust one’s judgement are also common indicators. Recognising these symptoms is the first step towards addressing and improving self-worth.

Why Do I Constantly Compare Myself To Others?

In today’s competitive society and with social media widely accessible, it “shows” us we need to be above average to feel good about ourselves, which is why many people compare themselves to others around them. Either they’re looking for a boost of confidence, or they’re drawn into the unrealistic image that is social media. However, “we can’t all be above average at the same time…There’s always someone richer, more attractive, or successful than we are.” says Dr Kristen Neff. 

Constantly comparing yourself and asking why someone else is better than you is unhealthy and may signify you need to seek professional help. 

What Causes Low Self-Esteem?

Childhood neglect or trauma is a common cause for low self-esteem, as are dysfunctional family environments and deprivation during childhood. Research suggests that the early foundations of self-worth relate to how our parents treated us. Individuals raised by caregivers who were consistently responsive, attentive and warm tend to have higher self-esteem than individuals raised by parents who were unavailable or emotionally cold or individuals with parents who were inconsistently nurturing. The implied rejection by an unloving parent can become lodged in our subconscious as a limiting belief, a feeling of being unworthy or not “good enough”. The subconscious mind accepts this belief regardless of what the conscious mind understands.

Self-esteem can vary from context to context. For example, some people have a positive sense of self in relation to their sporting abilities or occupational performance but have poor interpersonal (or social) self-worth. The reverse can also be true. Poor self-perception in relation to competence can restrict an individual’s ability to develop their full capacities in academic, occupational and sporting pursuits. Poor social self-worth can lead to social anxiety, loneliness, and relationship difficulties.

How Does Bayside Psychotherapy Treat Low Self Esteem?

Counselling at Bayside Psychotherapy is a collaboration between client and therapist to create a more positive and realistic self-appraisal. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all solution. After a thorough assessment, our practitioners will tailor a customised program to suit your individual needs, drawing from our extensive range of methodologies. Your therapist will consult with you regularly as your treatment progresses and make adjustments if indicated. Although your therapist does their best to help you resolve your issues, full commitment to the process on the part of clients is essential.

We also recommend our targeted self-hypnosis MP3 recording for self-esteem as it may complement your therapy sessions.

How Long Will Treatment Take?

Just as everyone has different reasons for low self-esteem, everyone responds differently to a treatment. Your treatment duration will depend on your circumstances, and on the progress you and your psychotherapist make together. We aim to unearth and resolve the root cause rather than merely offering band-aid fixes. After a few sessions, your therapist may be better placed to estimate how much more treatment is likely to be indicated. As you progress further, they will work with you to plan to space out your sessions and plan for discontinuation.