Self Esteem Counselling in Oxford

Hello and welcome to my profile.
You maybe considering therapy for current or past experiences, to change old patterns, due to a significant life event or know that life just doesn't feel right. These challenges in life can lead to feeling isolated and alone. In therapy, you are not alone, I shall be with you in your journey to wellbeing. I work with people with many different issues including, ruminating, anxiety, depression, dyslexia, relationship conflict, after a trauma event or life changes.
As an integrative therapist I can use different therapeutic approaches to tailor the therapy to suit your individual needs.
Hello and welcome to my profile.
You maybe considering therapy for current or past experiences, to change old patterns, due to a significant life event or know that life just doesn't feel right. These challenges in life can lead to feeling isolated and alone. In therapy, you are not alone, I shall be with you in your journey to wellbeing. I work with people with many different issues including, ruminating, anxiety, depression, dyslexia, relationship conflict, after a trauma event or life changes.
As an integrative therapist I can use different therapeutic approaches to tailor the therapy to suit your individual needs.

There can be many reasons why you are seeking out therapy. You may feel like you’re stuck in repetitive cycles of unwanted thoughts and feelings or your getting trapped in the same arguments with your partner. You may be struggling to cope with daily life and this has led to feelings of anxiety, low mood or low self-confidence. I aim to support you to unlock your potential through becoming more self-aware and to support you towards personal growth and change.
There can be many reasons why you are seeking out therapy. You may feel like you’re stuck in repetitive cycles of unwanted thoughts and feelings or your getting trapped in the same arguments with your partner. You may be struggling to cope with daily life and this has led to feelings of anxiety, low mood or low self-confidence. I aim to support you to unlock your potential through becoming more self-aware and to support you towards personal growth and change.

I am a Hypnotherapist and Rapid Transformational Therapist (RTT), trained by Marisa Peer, as well as an experienced medical doctor and life and careers coach. I have worked in the NHS and private sector for many years. I would be delighted to help you overcome whatever is causing you pain and holding you back from being your being your best self. I offer RTT alone, or in combination with coaching for further great results, putting your new understanding from RTT into practice in your relationships, work and home life.
I am a Hypnotherapist and Rapid Transformational Therapist (RTT), trained by Marisa Peer, as well as an experienced medical doctor and life and careers coach. I have worked in the NHS and private sector for many years. I would be delighted to help you overcome whatever is causing you pain and holding you back from being your being your best self. I offer RTT alone, or in combination with coaching for further great results, putting your new understanding from RTT into practice in your relationships, work and home life.

It might be that you have a clear sense of the issues you'd like to explore or just a sense that something is not quite right - both are excellent starting points.Currently most of my work is with clients interested in changing their lives to align with their sense of who they are, not who they should be. For some, getting a stronger sense of self is the first step in the therapy. Partly my work is also with people who have experienced one or more traumatic events, including with a PTSD diagnosis - our focus then is on processing the trauma therapeutically to reduce the unwanted symptoms that interfere with daily life.
It might be that you have a clear sense of the issues you'd like to explore or just a sense that something is not quite right - both are excellent starting points.Currently most of my work is with clients interested in changing their lives to align with their sense of who they are, not who they should be. For some, getting a stronger sense of self is the first step in the therapy. Partly my work is also with people who have experienced one or more traumatic events, including with a PTSD diagnosis - our focus then is on processing the trauma therapeutically to reduce the unwanted symptoms that interfere with daily life.

Penelope Barnes Psychotherapist & Clinical Supv
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Oxford OX2
Waitlist for new clients
You may have been considering therapy for a while but are hesitating or perhaps you've had previous experience and need something more. You feel something is not right but it is hard to think about or put into words? Living with high levels of anxiety, shame or fear for a prolonged period, can negatively affect the way we perceive ourselves and others. So with a compassionate approach, I work with most psychological difficulties, and have a special interest in anxiety and low mood, problematic family relationships, parenting and bereavement. I also work extensively with adolescents and welcome working with those of 16+years.
You may have been considering therapy for a while but are hesitating or perhaps you've had previous experience and need something more. You feel something is not right but it is hard to think about or put into words? Living with high levels of anxiety, shame or fear for a prolonged period, can negatively affect the way we perceive ourselves and others. So with a compassionate approach, I work with most psychological difficulties, and have a special interest in anxiety and low mood, problematic family relationships, parenting and bereavement. I also work extensively with adolescents and welcome working with those of 16+years.

Deciding to start therapy can be a big decision. There are so many types of therapy out there. My view is that we all have the potential to lead fulfilling lives but we sometimes get stuck along the way. My task is to work alongside you, creating a warm, supportive and non-judgemental environment for us to figure out what isn’t working for you and support you to find more creative ways to face what life throws your way. You might have a specific goal we work towards or you might not know exactly what you need but feel you need someone to speak to. That's fine.
Deciding to start therapy can be a big decision. There are so many types of therapy out there. My view is that we all have the potential to lead fulfilling lives but we sometimes get stuck along the way. My task is to work alongside you, creating a warm, supportive and non-judgemental environment for us to figure out what isn’t working for you and support you to find more creative ways to face what life throws your way. You might have a specific goal we work towards or you might not know exactly what you need but feel you need someone to speak to. That's fine.

If you are looking for someone to really listen to what you have to say and, where appropriate, to reflect back some non-judgemental comment, I think I could be the person you are looking for. With twelve years as a therapist and twenty-five years membership of the British Psychological Society (with a degree in that subject as well as a masters in cognitive science and over ten years working for an employee assistance provider, mostly recruiting and training therapists) I have the knowledge and experience to offer you a warm and empathic service.
If you are looking for someone to really listen to what you have to say and, where appropriate, to reflect back some non-judgemental comment, I think I could be the person you are looking for. With twelve years as a therapist and twenty-five years membership of the British Psychological Society (with a degree in that subject as well as a masters in cognitive science and over ten years working for an employee assistance provider, mostly recruiting and training therapists) I have the knowledge and experience to offer you a warm and empathic service.

Life brings challenges—whether they involve questions of meaning, identity, or managing the unique experiences that come with neurodivergence. Together, we can explore your inner world, uncover resources for healing, and work toward personal growth in a safe, respectful, and judgment-free space. Whether you’re facing transitions, emotional struggles, or simply seeking greater clarity and balance, I’m here to support you at your own pace.
Life brings challenges—whether they involve questions of meaning, identity, or managing the unique experiences that come with neurodivergence. Together, we can explore your inner world, uncover resources for healing, and work toward personal growth in a safe, respectful, and judgment-free space. Whether you’re facing transitions, emotional struggles, or simply seeking greater clarity and balance, I’m here to support you at your own pace.

If you are feeling hopeless, low on confidence, and unsure of your next steps in life, then I might be able to help. As an Existential Psychotherapist, with 10 years experience working abroad and in the UK, I help people explore their lives and what it means to exist. To face life’s challenges in a more meaningful, fulfilling and authentic manner. To confront such questions as “Who I am?” “What is my purpose in life?” and “How shall I live my life?” We are all faced with choices, dilemmas, and limitations, that is part of being human.
If you are feeling hopeless, low on confidence, and unsure of your next steps in life, then I might be able to help. As an Existential Psychotherapist, with 10 years experience working abroad and in the UK, I help people explore their lives and what it means to exist. To face life’s challenges in a more meaningful, fulfilling and authentic manner. To confront such questions as “Who I am?” “What is my purpose in life?” and “How shall I live my life?” We are all faced with choices, dilemmas, and limitations, that is part of being human.

For the past 25 years I have worked as a counsellor / psychotherapist. I also offer supervision to qualified and trainee therapists. Over the years I have gained a broad range of experience working with people from all walks of life, and from many cultures resulting in a good understanding of the requirements of both private individuals and corporate clients. My client base is broad and includes everyone from factory workers to professional footballers and actors. I feel it is important that a therapist can relate to their clients and this is something I excel at.
For the past 25 years I have worked as a counsellor / psychotherapist. I also offer supervision to qualified and trainee therapists. Over the years I have gained a broad range of experience working with people from all walks of life, and from many cultures resulting in a good understanding of the requirements of both private individuals and corporate clients. My client base is broad and includes everyone from factory workers to professional footballers and actors. I feel it is important that a therapist can relate to their clients and this is something I excel at.

We all go through periods in our life where we feel sad, anxious or overwhelmed by our difficulties and struggle to find a way forward. Perhaps you are going through a life transition, relationship breakdown or feeling stuck and lost as to how to make changes? Often these feelings can be linked to experiences from our childhood. Unlocking this can help make sense of what we are experiencing in the present. I can help you move forward by giving space and support to work through these feelings, make links and look at any challenges you face from a different perspective.
We all go through periods in our life where we feel sad, anxious or overwhelmed by our difficulties and struggle to find a way forward. Perhaps you are going through a life transition, relationship breakdown or feeling stuck and lost as to how to make changes? Often these feelings can be linked to experiences from our childhood. Unlocking this can help make sense of what we are experiencing in the present. I can help you move forward by giving space and support to work through these feelings, make links and look at any challenges you face from a different perspective.
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Counselling occurs within the dynamic of the unique therapeutic relationship we form. By working together, approaching issues with a gentle curiosity and kindness, I provide a space where you can feel safe, seen, heard, understood and empowered.
Each session is tailored to your individual needs and guided by what you find most valuable and helpful to explore. At times we may focus on the present moment and delve into your 'here and now' experience; this can provide a deeper understanding, reveal behavioural or relational patterns that may be holding you back, and open up new possibilities and choices.
Counselling occurs within the dynamic of the unique therapeutic relationship we form. By working together, approaching issues with a gentle curiosity and kindness, I provide a space where you can feel safe, seen, heard, understood and empowered.
Each session is tailored to your individual needs and guided by what you find most valuable and helpful to explore. At times we may focus on the present moment and delve into your 'here and now' experience; this can provide a deeper understanding, reveal behavioural or relational patterns that may be holding you back, and open up new possibilities and choices.

Are you a new parent experiencing intrusive thoughts or mood swings which worry you? Perhaps you feel hateful towards your partner, or are full of regret. Alternatively past events may be very alive in your mind & may need to be processed with an experienced Therapist. If you need a place to be heard; to express yourself & explore difficulties then I can help you. I have a relational approach based in the psychodynamic tradition, which means we can explore & think about how your past may be affecting your present. Integrating years of experience & training I will help you move forwards by understanding yourself better.
Are you a new parent experiencing intrusive thoughts or mood swings which worry you? Perhaps you feel hateful towards your partner, or are full of regret. Alternatively past events may be very alive in your mind & may need to be processed with an experienced Therapist. If you need a place to be heard; to express yourself & explore difficulties then I can help you. I have a relational approach based in the psychodynamic tradition, which means we can explore & think about how your past may be affecting your present. Integrating years of experience & training I will help you move forwards by understanding yourself better.

Anyone can access counselling for any reason, there is no ideal client, someone who is willing to explore their inner world and is committed to making positive changes in their life, might get the most out of working with me. If you struggle with issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or self-doubt, feel stuck or overwhelmed and may not know how to move forward or might just be looking to develop as a person.
Anyone can access counselling for any reason, there is no ideal client, someone who is willing to explore their inner world and is committed to making positive changes in their life, might get the most out of working with me. If you struggle with issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or self-doubt, feel stuck or overwhelmed and may not know how to move forward or might just be looking to develop as a person.

Dr Hjördis Lorenz (Abode Therapy)
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Clinical Psychologist who works with a range of mental health difficulties including anxiety, phobias, grief and loss, and relationship difficulties. I am particularly experienced in working with people struggling with the effects of trauma from childhood or adulthood, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Complex PTSD, substance use, and social anxiety. In all my work, I adapt therapy to your needs, including neurodiversity (e.g. ADHD), health issues, and cultural contexts. Alongside my work at ABODE, I work in a specialist trauma service in the NHS, and research social anxiety treatments at University of Oxford.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who works with a range of mental health difficulties including anxiety, phobias, grief and loss, and relationship difficulties. I am particularly experienced in working with people struggling with the effects of trauma from childhood or adulthood, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Complex PTSD, substance use, and social anxiety. In all my work, I adapt therapy to your needs, including neurodiversity (e.g. ADHD), health issues, and cultural contexts. Alongside my work at ABODE, I work in a specialist trauma service in the NHS, and research social anxiety treatments at University of Oxford.

You may be feeling troubled by symptoms of anxiety and depression, confused and conflicted in relationships or wanting to develop something within yourself in order to live a fuller and more satisfying life. Therapy can offer you a safe and positive space in which we can compassionately explore and work through areas of conflict and confusion. Facing painful and conflicted feelings together can undo anxiety and misery and free you to become who you really are as a person, and to get the most out of life.
You may be feeling troubled by symptoms of anxiety and depression, confused and conflicted in relationships or wanting to develop something within yourself in order to live a fuller and more satisfying life. Therapy can offer you a safe and positive space in which we can compassionately explore and work through areas of conflict and confusion. Facing painful and conflicted feelings together can undo anxiety and misery and free you to become who you really are as a person, and to get the most out of life.

Does life sometimes feel like an overwhelming weight you can’t put down? Are anxiety, stress, procrastination, or self-doubt leaving you stuck and unsure how to navigate your emotions, relationships, or work? Do you battle with imposter syndrome, wish you could be more assertive, or struggle to handle conflicts? Perhaps a relentless inner critic replays past mistakes, leaving you drained and uncertain about setting boundaries or finding forgiveness. If any of this feels familiar, you’re not alone. Together, we can work to understand these challenges, rediscover your inner strength, and move forward with clarity and confidence.
Does life sometimes feel like an overwhelming weight you can’t put down? Are anxiety, stress, procrastination, or self-doubt leaving you stuck and unsure how to navigate your emotions, relationships, or work? Do you battle with imposter syndrome, wish you could be more assertive, or struggle to handle conflicts? Perhaps a relentless inner critic replays past mistakes, leaving you drained and uncertain about setting boundaries or finding forgiveness. If any of this feels familiar, you’re not alone. Together, we can work to understand these challenges, rediscover your inner strength, and move forward with clarity and confidence.

You may be feeling life is difficult and challenging at the moment, struggling with anxiety or depression, or loneliness. You may have a general feeling of dissatisfaction making life difficult to manage. You may be struggling with a bereavement. You may find that you are feeling angry for much of the time. You may be looking for a way to alleviate your suffering and solve your problems in order to live a more satisfying life where you are more at ease with yourself and with other people. You might find it helpful to explore these thoughts and feelings in a safe and confidential environment. I hope to provide such a place.
You may be feeling life is difficult and challenging at the moment, struggling with anxiety or depression, or loneliness. You may have a general feeling of dissatisfaction making life difficult to manage. You may be struggling with a bereavement. You may find that you are feeling angry for much of the time. You may be looking for a way to alleviate your suffering and solve your problems in order to live a more satisfying life where you are more at ease with yourself and with other people. You might find it helpful to explore these thoughts and feelings in a safe and confidential environment. I hope to provide such a place.

I am an integrative psychotherapist with a primary training in Psychosynthesis and secondary trainings in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Certified Practitioner), Internal Family Systems Psychotherapy (Levels 1-2) and EMDR (Levels 1-3). Drawing on the body, long history with Buddhist psychology and meditation practice, and over 12 years experience working with complex trauma in therapeutic communities in the NHS and the prison system, I work to help people reframe mental health difficulties as psychospiritual opportunities to deepen our relationships and maximise our potential.
I am an integrative psychotherapist with a primary training in Psychosynthesis and secondary trainings in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Certified Practitioner), Internal Family Systems Psychotherapy (Levels 1-2) and EMDR (Levels 1-3). Drawing on the body, long history with Buddhist psychology and meditation practice, and over 12 years experience working with complex trauma in therapeutic communities in the NHS and the prison system, I work to help people reframe mental health difficulties as psychospiritual opportunities to deepen our relationships and maximise our potential.

Often, individual difficulties are accompanied by the challenges of daily life, which make each person’s experience different and their therapeutic needs unique. Through short or long term therapy, I aim to support meaningful change in areas you would like to work on, with an understanding of the wider picture of how these issues may feature in daily life.
Often, individual difficulties are accompanied by the challenges of daily life, which make each person’s experience different and their therapeutic needs unique. Through short or long term therapy, I aim to support meaningful change in areas you would like to work on, with an understanding of the wider picture of how these issues may feature in daily life.