Self-Esteem

How we see ourselves affects almost everything: our relationships, our work, the risks we take and how we cope when things go wrong. Low self-esteem can quietly shape all of these.

Start with a conversation

What it can feel like

Low self-esteem can feel like a constant inner voice pointing out what you have done wrong or could have done better. Some people find it hard to accept praise, compare themselves unfavourably with others, or hold themselves to standards they would never expect of anyone else.

It can also lead to holding back, such as avoiding opportunities, people-pleasing or not expressing what you need, which can reinforce the sense of not being good enough.

How therapy may help

Therapy can help you understand where your beliefs about yourself came from and how they are maintained. Many people find it helpful to develop a kinder, more balanced way of relating to themselves, which is a central focus of Compassion Focused Therapy.

How we work with this

Your Clinical Psychologist will work with you to understand your experience and agree what you would like to change. We draw on approaches such as CFT, CBT and ACT, adapting them to you.

If you’d like to talk it through

You don’t need to be sure this is the right page for you. The first step is the same whatever brings you here.

  1. Day one

    Get in touch

    A short online form

    Tell us a little about what you are looking for. A sentence or two is plenty; you don’t need to explain everything.

  2. Within two working days

    A 15-minute conversation

    Free, no obligation

    A relaxed call at a time that suits you, to talk through what is going on, ask questions and see whether Elementa feels like the right fit.

  3. When you’re ready

    Initial assessment

    50 minutes · £120

    A longer session with your psychologist to understand what has brought you here and what you would like to change. Afterwards, you receive a short written summary and a proposed plan.

  4. Then

    Ongoing therapy

    50-minute sessions · £120

    Regular online sessions, reviewed together as you go so the work stays focused on what matters to you.

Who you could work with

On the introductory call we’ll help you think about which of our Clinical Psychologists is best placed to support you.

  • Dr Abi Watkinson

    Clinical Psychologist

    I’m interested in how people make sense of what has happened to them. Therapy is often about finding a version of that story you can live with.

    Brings experience from adult, CAMHS and forensic services to thoughtful, collaborative work with adults.

  • Dr Laura Day

    Clinical Psychologist

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  • [Third founding psychologist]

    Clinical Psychologist

    [A sentence from the third psychologist, in their own words.]

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Start with a conversation

Send us a few lines and we’ll arrange a free 15-minute call at a time that suits you. You can ask anything, and there’s no obligation to continue.

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