Self Esteem Counselling in Milton Keynes

Photo of Michelle Ferns, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Michelle Ferns
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Life can be full of challenges and sometimes we need help to make sense of what is going on. Maybe there are issues in your life right now that are making life difficult, or perhaps your past experiences are having an impact on you, stopping you from being where you want to be, or from being the person you deserve to be.
Life can be full of challenges and sometimes we need help to make sense of what is going on. Maybe there are issues in your life right now that are making life difficult, or perhaps your past experiences are having an impact on you, stopping you from being where you want to be, or from being the person you deserve to be.
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Photo of Clive Deeks, Counsellor, MBACP
Clive Deeks
Counsellor, MBACP
Back in the nineties when I went to my first counselling session when it seemed the only option left that I could face. In the UK back then ‘therapy’ was almost taboo and I was scared to tell a soul. Thank goodness I quickly felt safe enough to confide in my counsellor and to share with her my deepest fears for my sanity, my marriage, my high pressure job and indeed, my future (if there was to be one). I can’t remember too much about those sessions now but I always felt better just for having shared. Nowadays through counselling I help people to find and to love their inner selves, to handle whatever life throws at them and to grow.
Back in the nineties when I went to my first counselling session when it seemed the only option left that I could face. In the UK back then ‘therapy’ was almost taboo and I was scared to tell a soul. Thank goodness I quickly felt safe enough to confide in my counsellor and to share with her my deepest fears for my sanity, my marriage, my high pressure job and indeed, my future (if there was to be one). I can’t remember too much about those sessions now but I always felt better just for having shared. Nowadays through counselling I help people to find and to love their inner selves, to handle whatever life throws at them and to grow.
01296 254512 View 01296 254512
Photo of Aaron Walton, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Aaron Walton
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Hi, I’m Aaron, someone who can provide you the space and time to be unapologetically yourself - while you figure things out. Unlike AI, I may not agree with you on everything, but as a human, I will smile, laugh and joke, but I will also challenge, encourage and celebrate you. I am experienced psychotherapist who can create a safe and non-judgemental space to enable you to explore different aspects of your life – nothing is ever trivial. We can work together to understand how your internal mindset, your thoughts and emotions, dictates your current reality – your behaviours and actions.
Hi, I’m Aaron, someone who can provide you the space and time to be unapologetically yourself - while you figure things out. Unlike AI, I may not agree with you on everything, but as a human, I will smile, laugh and joke, but I will also challenge, encourage and celebrate you. I am experienced psychotherapist who can create a safe and non-judgemental space to enable you to explore different aspects of your life – nothing is ever trivial. We can work together to understand how your internal mindset, your thoughts and emotions, dictates your current reality – your behaviours and actions.
01908 103458 View 01908 103458
Photo of Funmi Oni, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Funmi Oni
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Are you facing- Relationship conflicts or marriage struggles- - Job dissatisfaction or life stress - - Low self-esteem or confidence issues - - Grief from miscarriage - - Communication challenges - Together, we'll develop practical strategies to navigate these challenges and build a more fulfilling life.
My unique approach combines deep-rooted counseling work with practical coaching strategies, helping you not just overcome challenges, but thrive long-term. NEW: Transform Your Self-Esteem Join our affordable 4-week small group workshop designed to build lasting confidence. Limited spots available - Starts January 27 See workshop flier for dates and pricing
Are you facing- Relationship conflicts or marriage struggles- - Job dissatisfaction or life stress - - Low self-esteem or confidence issues - - Grief from miscarriage - - Communication challenges - Together, we'll develop practical strategies to navigate these challenges and build a more fulfilling life.
My unique approach combines deep-rooted counseling work with practical coaching strategies, helping you not just overcome challenges, but thrive long-term. NEW: Transform Your Self-Esteem Join our affordable 4-week small group workshop designed to build lasting confidence. Limited spots available - Starts January 27 See workshop flier for dates and pricing
0161 696 1203 View 0161 696 1203
Photo of Gareth Eglinton-Pacitti, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Gareth Eglinton-Pacitti
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
I specialise in neurodivergence (ADHD/Autism), LGBTQ+ identities, anxiety and self-esteem.
I work with queer, trans, neurodivergent and folks who have always felt a bit 'different'. You might be navigating the exhaustion of autistic burnout, internalised shame, chronic anxiety or exploring your identity and relationships. We will work together to understand your emotional patterns, develop self-compassion and build strategies to manage distress. My goal is to help you build lasting wellbeing, heal from past trauma and move forward with a much kinder relationship with yourself.
I specialise in neurodivergence (ADHD/Autism), LGBTQ+ identities, anxiety and self-esteem.
I work with queer, trans, neurodivergent and folks who have always felt a bit 'different'. You might be navigating the exhaustion of autistic burnout, internalised shame, chronic anxiety or exploring your identity and relationships. We will work together to understand your emotional patterns, develop self-compassion and build strategies to manage distress. My goal is to help you build lasting wellbeing, heal from past trauma and move forward with a much kinder relationship with yourself.
01788 228351 View 01788 228351
Photo of Emma Hirst, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Emma Hirst
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
○ Stress and overwhelm ○ Suffering from low self-esteem/ low self-worth/ shame ○ Relationship & relational issues ○ Working with parts of self, inner child ○ Lack of focus and direction in life ○ University studying stress and pressures ○ Mind body connection / embodiment ○ Boundary Setting ○ Spirituality and purpose ○ Family issues and past traumas ○ Loss
Welcome to my profile. I'm a compassionate therapist who creates a trusted, non-judgmental space for exploration and healing.  My approach weaves traditional talking therapy with transpersonal and embodied practices (Parts work, IFS, mindfulness-based, dreamwork and somatic approaches). I combine various trainings in order to tailor the therapy to you as an individual.  I believe in the innate capacity of each person to heal, and I guide clients with empathy, presence, and respect as they navigate life’s challenges and uncover their authentic selves.
○ Stress and overwhelm ○ Suffering from low self-esteem/ low self-worth/ shame ○ Relationship & relational issues ○ Working with parts of self, inner child ○ Lack of focus and direction in life ○ University studying stress and pressures ○ Mind body connection / embodiment ○ Boundary Setting ○ Spirituality and purpose ○ Family issues and past traumas ○ Loss
Welcome to my profile. I'm a compassionate therapist who creates a trusted, non-judgmental space for exploration and healing.  My approach weaves traditional talking therapy with transpersonal and embodied practices (Parts work, IFS, mindfulness-based, dreamwork and somatic approaches). I combine various trainings in order to tailor the therapy to you as an individual.  I believe in the innate capacity of each person to heal, and I guide clients with empathy, presence, and respect as they navigate life’s challenges and uncover their authentic selves.
01234 860685 View 01234 860685
Photo of Nicola Ward, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Nicola Ward
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Hello, I am a trauma-informed therapeutic counsellor based in South Northamptonshire, supporting both young adults and adults through challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem and or lacking confidence, depression, grief, and trauma.
I believe therapy should be collaborative, flexible, and a safe space where you feel heard and understood. It’s a place to explore your thoughts and emotions at your own pace, without pressure or judgement. Sessions can take place face‑to‑face or online, giving you the freedom to choose the setting that feels most comfortable for you.
Hello, I am a trauma-informed therapeutic counsellor based in South Northamptonshire, supporting both young adults and adults through challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem and or lacking confidence, depression, grief, and trauma.
I believe therapy should be collaborative, flexible, and a safe space where you feel heard and understood. It’s a place to explore your thoughts and emotions at your own pace, without pressure or judgement. Sessions can take place face‑to‑face or online, giving you the freedom to choose the setting that feels most comfortable for you.
01908 024986 View 01908 024986
Photo of Janice Teh, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Janice Teh
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
I have a special interest in cultural identity and self-esteem issues, as well as religious and spiritual struggles.
I offer therapy to individuals aged 18+ in the Dunstable and Milton Keynes areas. I can help you explore any emotional difficulties you may have. Sometimes we don't know why we keep reacting to others the way we do. We just know we don't want to feel the way we feel anymore. Perhaps you seem to have everything together on the surface but underneath you feel overwhelmed, and you worry about what others might think of you if they knew the truth. You may have been trying to figure this out on your own but get frustrated because nothing seems to work. Maybe you feel that your issue is too insignificant and others have bigger problems.
I have a special interest in cultural identity and self-esteem issues, as well as religious and spiritual struggles.
I offer therapy to individuals aged 18+ in the Dunstable and Milton Keynes areas. I can help you explore any emotional difficulties you may have. Sometimes we don't know why we keep reacting to others the way we do. We just know we don't want to feel the way we feel anymore. Perhaps you seem to have everything together on the surface but underneath you feel overwhelmed, and you worry about what others might think of you if they knew the truth. You may have been trying to figure this out on your own but get frustrated because nothing seems to work. Maybe you feel that your issue is too insignificant and others have bigger problems.
07810 788565 View 07810 788565
Photo of Vicki Petrou - Omoiyari Therapy, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Omoiyari Therapy
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
From dysfunctional relationships to anxiety, low self-esteem or depression, my approach is rooted in empathy and adaptability.
As a therapist, I bring both lived experience and extensive professional expertise working with neurodivergent individuals. Drawing from my personal insights and specialised training, I offer a uniquely empathetic approach grounded in a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent people. Whether in decoding social cues, managing sensory sensitivities, or cultivating self-acceptance, I've walked a similar path, giving me an intimate knowledge of the barriers and triumphs that shape the neurodivergent experience.
From dysfunctional relationships to anxiety, low self-esteem or depression, my approach is rooted in empathy and adaptability.
As a therapist, I bring both lived experience and extensive professional expertise working with neurodivergent individuals. Drawing from my personal insights and specialised training, I offer a uniquely empathetic approach grounded in a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent people. Whether in decoding social cues, managing sensory sensitivities, or cultivating self-acceptance, I've walked a similar path, giving me an intimate knowledge of the barriers and triumphs that shape the neurodivergent experience.
01536 907061 View 01536 907061
Photo of Joseph Alexis, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Joseph Alexis
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
My therapy approach has been particularly effective with clients with low- self esteem, depression, worry, OCD, trauma experiences and social anxiety.
Experience as a Registered Mental Health Nurse, has complimented my delivery of CBT as this allows my therapy approach to recognise the importance addressing all aspects of health: sleep, exercise and nutrition - all playing a role in the individual’s wellbeing. I am also trained in EMDR to treat PTSD and other trauma related problems.
My therapy approach has been particularly effective with clients with low- self esteem, depression, worry, OCD, trauma experiences and social anxiety.
Experience as a Registered Mental Health Nurse, has complimented my delivery of CBT as this allows my therapy approach to recognise the importance addressing all aspects of health: sleep, exercise and nutrition - all playing a role in the individual’s wellbeing. I am also trained in EMDR to treat PTSD and other trauma related problems.
01536 907758 View 01536 907758
Photo of Roliste Jerman, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Roliste Jerman
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck in patterns you don’t fully understand, or unsure why certain emotions keep showing up no matter how hard you try to push them away. Perhaps you react in ways that don’t feel like “you,” or you’re finding it difficult to stay calm, motivated, or connected to others. Many of the people I work with describe anxiety, stress, anger, low motivation, or a general sense of feeling lost. What they want most is clarity, relief, and a way to understand themselves better, not quick fixes, but real, lasting change. They want to feel more grounded, more connected, and more like themselves again.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck in patterns you don’t fully understand, or unsure why certain emotions keep showing up no matter how hard you try to push them away. Perhaps you react in ways that don’t feel like “you,” or you’re finding it difficult to stay calm, motivated, or connected to others. Many of the people I work with describe anxiety, stress, anger, low motivation, or a general sense of feeling lost. What they want most is clarity, relief, and a way to understand themselves better, not quick fixes, but real, lasting change. They want to feel more grounded, more connected, and more like themselves again.
01933 823309 View 01933 823309
Photo of Abbie Proctor - Abbie Gibbons Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Abbie Gibbons Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Life can feel overwhelming for many different reasons. Perhaps you’re navigating a significant change, feeling disconnected or sensing that something isn’t quite aligning. Whatever has brought you here, you don’t have to work through it alone. I’m here to provide a calm, accepting environment where you can feel truly heard.
Life can feel overwhelming for many different reasons. Perhaps you’re navigating a significant change, feeling disconnected or sensing that something isn’t quite aligning. Whatever has brought you here, you don’t have to work through it alone. I’m here to provide a calm, accepting environment where you can feel truly heard.
0121 661 3930 View 0121 661 3930
Photo of Kate Megase, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Kate Megase
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
As a specialist in relationship and couple therapy, I work with individuals and couples who feel stuck in repeated patterns of conflict, self-criticism, and low self-esteem.
I offer a warm and supportive space to explore the challenges in your life. Using an integrative approach, I draw on psychodynamic insight to understand past attachments, trauma, and emotional difficulties. Together, we’ll work at a deep level, using CBT and practical tools to improve emotional balance, communication, intimacy, and relationships.
As a specialist in relationship and couple therapy, I work with individuals and couples who feel stuck in repeated patterns of conflict, self-criticism, and low self-esteem.
I offer a warm and supportive space to explore the challenges in your life. Using an integrative approach, I draw on psychodynamic insight to understand past attachments, trauma, and emotional difficulties. Together, we’ll work at a deep level, using CBT and practical tools to improve emotional balance, communication, intimacy, and relationships.
01798 305047 View 01798 305047
Photo of Sara Gamba, Counsellor, MBACP
Sara Gamba
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I work with adults, couples and young people, and with those experiencing a range of various difficulties including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem, identity issues and grief.
I have worked with clients from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, genders, ages and issues and I merge different therapeutic approaches in relation to your needs. I offer short and long-term counselling to support with understanding your experience and explore the challenges you are facing. I offer sessions in both English and Italian.
I work with adults, couples and young people, and with those experiencing a range of various difficulties including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem, identity issues and grief.
I have worked with clients from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, genders, ages and issues and I merge different therapeutic approaches in relation to your needs. I offer short and long-term counselling to support with understanding your experience and explore the challenges you are facing. I offer sessions in both English and Italian.
01442 971871 View 01442 971871
Photo of Kristyana Jimdar, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Kristyana Jimdar
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Serves Area
Anxiety, depression and other mental challenges can be debilitating. It's something that many of us live with each and every day and we need to find the best ways to deal with our emotions, what we are going through and how we react to certain situations. Being the best you is not easy, but you can do it. It is undoubtedly achievable no matter where you are in your life. Some may find difficulty showing up to their counselling sessions, some may think it's easier to talk online and some may find comfort with the presence of an animal in the room and even doing activities with the animal. Your needs are a priority.
Anxiety, depression and other mental challenges can be debilitating. It's something that many of us live with each and every day and we need to find the best ways to deal with our emotions, what we are going through and how we react to certain situations. Being the best you is not easy, but you can do it. It is undoubtedly achievable no matter where you are in your life. Some may find difficulty showing up to their counselling sessions, some may think it's easier to talk online and some may find comfort with the presence of an animal in the room and even doing activities with the animal. Your needs are a priority.
01604 981714 View 01604 981714
Photo of Elizabeth Burr - Elizabeth Burr, Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
Elizabeth Burr
Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
Serves Area
Hello, my name is Liz. I am a contractual trainee in Advanced TA training at the Berne Institute, and I use the concepts of Transactional Analysis (or TA) within my practice. TA provides a framework through which we can develop an understanding of ourselves and how we have become the person we are today. It helps us to understand our relationship with ourselves (our internal world), and also our relationships with others, and our sense of our place in the world.We all have a script – a life plan made in early childhood that served us well at a time when we had very little power or control.
Hello, my name is Liz. I am a contractual trainee in Advanced TA training at the Berne Institute, and I use the concepts of Transactional Analysis (or TA) within my practice. TA provides a framework through which we can develop an understanding of ourselves and how we have become the person we are today. It helps us to understand our relationship with ourselves (our internal world), and also our relationships with others, and our sense of our place in the world.We all have a script – a life plan made in early childhood that served us well at a time when we had very little power or control.
01234 987863 View 01234 987863
Photo of Jenny Edwards, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Jenny Edwards
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. Reaching out is a brave first step toward change. You may be here because of a difficult past. Perhaps your childhood left you feeling hurt, or you’ve always felt like you don’t quite fit in. Maybe you find yourself overcompensating in social situations, questioning your worth, or wondering what’s “wrong” with you. Do you often feel anxious, struggle to relax around others, or experience emotions like anger, jealousy, or sadness without fully understanding why?
Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. Reaching out is a brave first step toward change. You may be here because of a difficult past. Perhaps your childhood left you feeling hurt, or you’ve always felt like you don’t quite fit in. Maybe you find yourself overcompensating in social situations, questioning your worth, or wondering what’s “wrong” with you. Do you often feel anxious, struggle to relax around others, or experience emotions like anger, jealousy, or sadness without fully understanding why?
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Photo of Lewis Ottaway, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Lewis Ottaway
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m a cognitive behavioural psychotherapist supporting people aged 14+ to build self-esteem and navigate life with ADHD.
Therapy is a partnership — a space to explore life’s challenges, openly and honestly. Therapy is centred on you and its where important changes can begin. We’ll bring curiosity to your thoughts, feelings and behaviours — and how certain patterns may be keeping you stuck. From there, we’ll work towards lasting changes with more clarity and confidence.
I’m a cognitive behavioural psychotherapist supporting people aged 14+ to build self-esteem and navigate life with ADHD.
Therapy is a partnership — a space to explore life’s challenges, openly and honestly. Therapy is centred on you and its where important changes can begin. We’ll bring curiosity to your thoughts, feelings and behaviours — and how certain patterns may be keeping you stuck. From there, we’ll work towards lasting changes with more clarity and confidence.
01525 302579 View 01525 302579
Photo of Charlotte Grosch - Counselling with Char, Counsellor, MBACP
Counselling with Char
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I have experience of working with anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, shame, low self-esteem, loss, grief, bereavement, unpaid carers, trauma, relationship issues, neurodivergence and more.
Having had plenty of my own struggles and lots of personal counselling, I know how important it is to be listened to, understood and have someone who provides you with empathy and a trusting relationship. My main goal is to offer these core values for my clients and create a warm, calming environment in our counselling sessions.
I have experience of working with anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, shame, low self-esteem, loss, grief, bereavement, unpaid carers, trauma, relationship issues, neurodivergence and more.
Having had plenty of my own struggles and lots of personal counselling, I know how important it is to be listened to, understood and have someone who provides you with empathy and a trusting relationship. My main goal is to offer these core values for my clients and create a warm, calming environment in our counselling sessions.
01908 103584 View 01908 103584
Photo of Eloise Stapleton, Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Eloise Stapleton
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Serves Area
Adults (18+) who may feel lost, stuck, or disconnected from themselves often come seeking support. They might be navigating life transitions, experiencing stress or overwhelm, or noticing patterns in their behaviour or relationships that no longer serve them, including the impact of racism, gender inequality, or social pressures. They are looking for a safe, supportive space to be themselves, make sense of their experiences, unburden what they carry, and develop self-awareness, resilience, and self-compassion, moving toward greater choice, freedom, and authenticity in life.
Adults (18+) who may feel lost, stuck, or disconnected from themselves often come seeking support. They might be navigating life transitions, experiencing stress or overwhelm, or noticing patterns in their behaviour or relationships that no longer serve them, including the impact of racism, gender inequality, or social pressures. They are looking for a safe, supportive space to be themselves, make sense of their experiences, unburden what they carry, and develop self-awareness, resilience, and self-compassion, moving toward greater choice, freedom, and authenticity in life.
01234 864805 View 01234 864805

See more therapy options for Milton Keynes

Self Esteem Counsellors
When should a person seek therapy for low self-esteem?
When self-esteem problems begin to disrupt the healthy daily functioning of an individual, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If a person finds that they are not engaging with friends for fear of being judged, not completing work assignments because they don’t think they’re capable, or not finding romantic love because they don’t feel they’re worthy of it, a therapist may be able to help.

What are the signs of low self-esteem?
Low self-esteem is a common issue that can affect a person's mental and emotional well-being. Some common signs of low self-esteem include negative self-talk, perfectionism, social anxiety, difficulty making decisions, an inability to set boundaries, people-pleasing, and others. A lack of belief in oneself or one’s abilities and a feeling of not being worthy or deserving underlie most of these characteristics.

What causes low self-esteem?
Feelings of low self-worth can begin in childhood or adulthood. Being raised by a highly critical parent or growing up feeling constant disapproval can stay with a person well into adulthood. Specific issues in adulthood may also be a cause of low self-esteem. An unhappy relationship, a dysfunctional work or school experience can impact a person’s feelings of self-worth.

How can therapy improve self-esteem?
Therapists can help identify negative thought patterns that keep the client stuck in a loop of destructive self-talk and develop coping skills to change the voice in their head. A therapist can help with goal-setting, so that clients are better able to stay on task and build confidence from successfully completing work they’re proud of. Coaching a client on how to better communicate can improve relationships. These skills can result in someone with low self-esteem feeling empowered and living with less fear.