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Online CBT for low self-confidence
Low self-confidence often shows up as harsh self-criticism, comparing yourself to others and holding back from things you’d like to do. CBT helps you spot the beliefs behind it, test them against real life and build a kinder, more balanced view of yourself. I offer it online to adults across the UK.
What it can look like
You may notice some of these. You don’t need all of them to benefit from support.
- A critical inner voice that’s quick to point out mistakes
- Comparing yourself with others and coming up short
- Replaying conversations and wondering if you said the wrong thing
- Putting things off or avoiding them in case you fail or are judged
- Needing reassurance or approval from other people
- Finding it hard to say no, speak up or accept a compliment
How CBT helps with low confidence
Low confidence usually rests on beliefs and rules picked up over time, such as I’ve to be perfect or I’m not good enough. They shape what you notice and what you avoid, which keeps them in place.
In CBT we identify your own beliefs and rules, then run small behavioural experiments to see what happens when you act differently. We practise answering the critical voice with balance and self-compassion, and use ACT to connect your choices to what matters to you.
Questions about this
Is low confidence the same as low self-esteem?
They overlap. Confidence is usually about what you believe you can do. Self-esteem is about how you value yourself overall. CBT works with both.
Is this the same as social anxiety?
They are related and often occur together. Social anxiety centres on fear of judgement in social situations, while low confidence is a wider view of yourself. We can work out together where to start.
Do I need a mental health diagnosis?
No. You can come because you want to feel differently about yourself, and we make sense of it together.
Take the first step with a free 20-minute call
Tell me what is going on, ask your questions and see whether we would work well together. There is no pressure to go ahead afterwards.