Low Self-Esteem: Self Esteem Counselling

Struggling with low self-esteem or feeling not good enough? Our psychologists and counsellors in Geelong provide a supportive space to explore your self-worth and build confidence from the inside out.

What Is Self-Esteem?

Self-esteem is how we see and value ourselves. It influences our thoughts, behaviours, relationships, and ability to cope with life’s challenges. While everyone experiences self-doubt at times, ongoing low self-esteem can affect mental health, relationships, and daily functioning.

Signs of Low Self-Esteem

You may be experiencing low self-esteem if you notice:

• Harsh self-criticism or constant self-doubt
• Fear of making mistakes or frequent indecision
• A strong need to please others at your own expense
• Perfectionism and frustration when things aren't “just right”
• Guilt over past mistakes
• Negative self-talk or pessimism
• Difficulty accepting compliments
• Sensitivity to criticism
• Envy, comparison, or resentment
• Believing setbacks define your worth or future

What Causes Low Self-Esteem?

Low self-esteem often begins early and is shaped by:

• Childhood experiences (e.g., bullying, neglect, harsh criticism)
• Unrealistic societal expectations or social media pressures
• Challenging life events (e.g., illness, breakups, career setbacks)
• Ongoing stress or trauma
• Lack of positive feedback or secure relationships

Who Is Affected?

Low self-esteem can affect anyone — children, teens, and adults alike. It’s especially common during:

• Adolescence and major life transitions
• Relationship breakdowns or job loss
• Times of stress, isolation, or self-comparison
• People with low self-esteem may avoid challenges, seek constant reassurance, struggle to set boundaries, or attribute success to luck instead of their abilities.

How to Improve Self-Esteem

Improving self-esteem is a process — but change is possible. Helpful strategies include:

• Practising positive self-talk and self-compassion
• Recognising and celebrating your strengths
• Setting realistic goals and acknowledging progress
• Challenging negative thoughts or limiting beliefs
• Avoiding comparisons and embracing your uniqueness
• Engaging in meaningful activities and healthy relationships
• Seeking professional support to break self-defeating patterns

How Therapy Can Help

Our team at Head Start Counselling & Psychology uses evidence-based approaches like CBT and ACT to help individuals:

• Understand the roots of low self-worth
• Identify and shift unhelpful thinking patterns
• Build emotional resilience and healthy self-talk
• Strengthen assertiveness and boundary-setting
• Reconnect with values, strengths, and identity

Therapy is a space to explore your story, heal from past hurts, and develop a healthier relationship with yourself. You are not broken — but you may be carrying beliefs that no longer serve you. If you're ready to feel more confident, connected, and self-assured, we’re here to support you.