Self Esteem Counselling in Midlothian

Photo of Tom Brown, Psychotherapist, BACP
Tom Brown
Psychotherapist, BACP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you're dealing with a diagnosed mental health condition, like anxiety or depression, or you're struggling with more general mental health issues, like low self esteem, therapy can provide you with the tools you need to overcome your difficulties.
I know that taking the first step towards seeking therapy can be daunting. I use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as my main therapeutic technique. However, I also like to integrate a person-centred and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) approach to create a warm, empathetic, and safe space for you to explore and work through your difficulties.
Whether you're dealing with a diagnosed mental health condition, like anxiety or depression, or you're struggling with more general mental health issues, like low self esteem, therapy can provide you with the tools you need to overcome your difficulties.
I know that taking the first step towards seeking therapy can be daunting. I use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as my main therapeutic technique. However, I also like to integrate a person-centred and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) approach to create a warm, empathetic, and safe space for you to explore and work through your difficulties.
0131 381 1798 View 0131 381 1798
Photo of Rory Ross, Counsellor, MBACP
Rory Ross
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
In our bustling lives, where responsibilities, deadlines, and expectations of career, relationships, and personal growth pull at our every moment, it feels like navigating stormy seas and it's easy to lose sight of yourself amidst the turbulence. Finding a sanctuary for our wellbeing is vital. Imagine a place that's always safe and secure, a haven from the stresses and worries of your everyday life. My speciality is using Transactional Analysis (TA), a form of social psychology that helps you understand your personality, how you interact with others and how past life events could be affecting your here-and-now experience.
In our bustling lives, where responsibilities, deadlines, and expectations of career, relationships, and personal growth pull at our every moment, it feels like navigating stormy seas and it's easy to lose sight of yourself amidst the turbulence. Finding a sanctuary for our wellbeing is vital. Imagine a place that's always safe and secure, a haven from the stresses and worries of your everyday life. My speciality is using Transactional Analysis (TA), a form of social psychology that helps you understand your personality, how you interact with others and how past life events could be affecting your here-and-now experience.
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Photo of Kelly Combe, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Kelly Combe
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Bilston EH25
I can give skilled, confidential therapeutic support for a range of issues including stress, depression, anxiety, bereavement, relationship difficulties, low self esteem, trauma, abuse and Phobias.
I believe that it's important for an individual to find the right counsellor, as one counsellors method may not suit all. I therefore offer my initial consultation at a reduced rate. The initial consultation is not only an opportunity for the counsellors to find out more about the client but also for the client to find out more about the counsellor, giving both the opportunity to discover if a suitable rapport can be built, creating an appropriate environment for counselling to take place.
I can give skilled, confidential therapeutic support for a range of issues including stress, depression, anxiety, bereavement, relationship difficulties, low self esteem, trauma, abuse and Phobias.
I believe that it's important for an individual to find the right counsellor, as one counsellors method may not suit all. I therefore offer my initial consultation at a reduced rate. The initial consultation is not only an opportunity for the counsellors to find out more about the client but also for the client to find out more about the counsellor, giving both the opportunity to discover if a suitable rapport can be built, creating an appropriate environment for counselling to take place.
01968 700122 View 01968 700122
Photo of Mhairi Spence, Counsellor, MBACP
Mhairi Spence
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Roslin EH25
You might be struggling with constant worry, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, grief, or the lasting impact of trauma or addiction.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety or burnout? Do you feel stuck and unable to cope with life's difficulties? I support adults to feel calmer, more confident and find practical ways forward — face-to-face in Roslin (near Edinburgh) and online across the UK. If work, relationships or life changes are leaving you exhausted, stuck or on edge, counselling can help. I offer a warm, non-judgemental space where you can be heard and start to make sense of what’s happening. Together we’ll explore what’s getting in the way, and I’ll help you develop simple, practical tools you can use in day-to-day life.
You might be struggling with constant worry, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, grief, or the lasting impact of trauma or addiction.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety or burnout? Do you feel stuck and unable to cope with life's difficulties? I support adults to feel calmer, more confident and find practical ways forward — face-to-face in Roslin (near Edinburgh) and online across the UK. If work, relationships or life changes are leaving you exhausted, stuck or on edge, counselling can help. I offer a warm, non-judgemental space where you can be heard and start to make sense of what’s happening. Together we’ll explore what’s getting in the way, and I’ll help you develop simple, practical tools you can use in day-to-day life.
01655 509988 View 01655 509988
Photo of Dr Malcolm Scobbie, Psychiatrist
Dr Malcolm Scobbie
Psychiatrist
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Many of the people who come to see me are adults with ADHD who have spent much of their lives feeling misunderstood, self-critical, or quietly exhausted. Often, they have been diagnosed later in life and are trying to make sense of their past - relationships, work patterns, emotional struggles - through a new lens. Outwardly, they may appear capable or high-functioning, yet internally feel overwhelmed, ashamed, or disconnected from themselves. What they want is not just strategies, but understanding, relief, and a way to live more kindly with who they are.
Many of the people who come to see me are adults with ADHD who have spent much of their lives feeling misunderstood, self-critical, or quietly exhausted. Often, they have been diagnosed later in life and are trying to make sense of their past - relationships, work patterns, emotional struggles - through a new lens. Outwardly, they may appear capable or high-functioning, yet internally feel overwhelmed, ashamed, or disconnected from themselves. What they want is not just strategies, but understanding, relief, and a way to live more kindly with who they are.
Photo of Katrina Cummings, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Katrina Cummings
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Dalkeith EH22
I support clients who seek counselling for a range of reasons, including but not limited to, domestic abuse, trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety and burnout.
I am a BACP registered, person-centred counsellor and psychotherapist. I have significant experience working with domestic abuse, trauma and low self-esteem. I am an LGBTQIA+ and neuro-affirming counsellor and I am committed to providing a space where you can feel understood and accepted.
I support clients who seek counselling for a range of reasons, including but not limited to, domestic abuse, trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety and burnout.
I am a BACP registered, person-centred counsellor and psychotherapist. I have significant experience working with domestic abuse, trauma and low self-esteem. I am an LGBTQIA+ and neuro-affirming counsellor and I am committed to providing a space where you can feel understood and accepted.
0131 381 4367 View 0131 381 4367
Photo of Rachel Rickman, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Rachel Rickman
Psychotherapist, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Perhaps you feel anxious, depressed or have low self esteem?
I offer a caring, encouraging and non-judgemental space for you to share your thoughts and feelings, empowering you to find a way forward. I am a qualified CBT therapist with experience of people with issues such as anxiety, anger, depression and self esteem. I tailor a range of proven therapeutic techniques to your unique needs.
Perhaps you feel anxious, depressed or have low self esteem?
I offer a caring, encouraging and non-judgemental space for you to share your thoughts and feelings, empowering you to find a way forward. I am a qualified CBT therapist with experience of people with issues such as anxiety, anger, depression and self esteem. I tailor a range of proven therapeutic techniques to your unique needs.
0131 381 8606 View 0131 381 8606
Photo of Marie Finlay, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Marie Finlay
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, self-doubt, or life’s daily pressures? I support adults, young people and children to manage anxiety, build resilience, and regain a sense of control in their lives. Avoidant behaviours such as withdrawal, procrastination, or overreliance on screens often mask deeper emotional distress. Through a compassionate and practical approach, I help clients uncover these patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and build lasting confidence.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, self-doubt, or life’s daily pressures? I support adults, young people and children to manage anxiety, build resilience, and regain a sense of control in their lives. Avoidant behaviours such as withdrawal, procrastination, or overreliance on screens often mask deeper emotional distress. Through a compassionate and practical approach, I help clients uncover these patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and build lasting confidence.
01578 517323 View 01578 517323
Photo of Chris Williamson - The Edinburgh Gardener Counselling Service, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
The Edinburgh Gardener Counselling Service
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m Chris, a person-centred counsellor based in Leith, with my practice overlooking the Shore. I welcome clients from across the UK for both face-to-face and online sessions. As a queer person and active member of the LGBT community, my personal journey has granted me valuable insight into the challenges of identity and acceptance. Having experienced prejudice and exclusion myself, I am deeply passionate about creating a safe, non-judgemental space where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported. My commitment is to offer a therapeutic environment where all aspects of you are welcomed and respected, regardless of your background.
I’m Chris, a person-centred counsellor based in Leith, with my practice overlooking the Shore. I welcome clients from across the UK for both face-to-face and online sessions. As a queer person and active member of the LGBT community, my personal journey has granted me valuable insight into the challenges of identity and acceptance. Having experienced prejudice and exclusion myself, I am deeply passionate about creating a safe, non-judgemental space where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported. My commitment is to offer a therapeutic environment where all aspects of you are welcomed and respected, regardless of your background.
0131 381 7761 View 0131 381 7761
Photo of Angela Mcilhagger, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Angela Mcilhagger
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Online Only
You may feel caught between high expectations and intense self-criticism. Many of the women I work with are thoughtful, capable people who push themselves hard but still feel they are falling short. At certain points in the month your mood may shift significantly, leaving you feeling like a different person. You might try to stay in control through food or routines, only to feel overwhelmed later. Even when you understand the pattern intellectually, it can still feel difficult to change. You may be looking for practical, evidence-based support to help you understand what is happening and respond differently.
You may feel caught between high expectations and intense self-criticism. Many of the women I work with are thoughtful, capable people who push themselves hard but still feel they are falling short. At certain points in the month your mood may shift significantly, leaving you feeling like a different person. You might try to stay in control through food or routines, only to feel overwhelmed later. Even when you understand the pattern intellectually, it can still feel difficult to change. You may be looking for practical, evidence-based support to help you understand what is happening and respond differently.
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Photo of Erika Martin, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Erika Martin
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Dalkeith EH22
I work with adults from any age group. I am available for anyone who is ready to make positive changes and would like to break free from old destructive thinking or behavioural patterns. Here to help you to get through any kind of loss, life challenges, stress, anxiety, changes that put your life on hold. I will provide a safe space where you can unload your thoughts without filters. Together with the right approach we can find specific tools tailored to you and will work on reaching your goals.
I work with adults from any age group. I am available for anyone who is ready to make positive changes and would like to break free from old destructive thinking or behavioural patterns. Here to help you to get through any kind of loss, life challenges, stress, anxiety, changes that put your life on hold. I will provide a safe space where you can unload your thoughts without filters. Together with the right approach we can find specific tools tailored to you and will work on reaching your goals.
0131 381 5935 View 0131 381 5935
Photo of Lisa Cherry-Byrnes, Counsellor, MBACP
Lisa Cherry-Byrnes
Counsellor, MBACP
Penicuik EH26
People seek therapy & counselling for different reasons & you will have your own unique life experiences that may cause you unhappiness or you may find yourself at crisis point feeling unsure of what to do next. I have worked with many different clients from across the social & cultural spectrum from medical professionals to artists, full-time students to stay at home parents & retirees. I understand that often it is the first step, no matter who we are, that can feel the hardest; the reaching out & making contact. You may want to explore options for change, make sense of a difficult experience or gain new strategies for coping.
People seek therapy & counselling for different reasons & you will have your own unique life experiences that may cause you unhappiness or you may find yourself at crisis point feeling unsure of what to do next. I have worked with many different clients from across the social & cultural spectrum from medical professionals to artists, full-time students to stay at home parents & retirees. I understand that often it is the first step, no matter who we are, that can feel the hardest; the reaching out & making contact. You may want to explore options for change, make sense of a difficult experience or gain new strategies for coping.
0131 357 6140 View 0131 357 6140
Photo of Caroline Toshack, Counsellor, MBACP
Caroline Toshack
Counsellor, MBACP
Many also come for support with negative body image and food anxiety, or to untangle long-standing difficult relationships with food, body, or self-worth.
I believe eating difficulties develop for understandable reasons — often as ways of coping with emotions, life pressures, or internal expectations. Therapy provides a space to explore these patterns safely, understand what’s driving them, and begin to develop more sustainable ways of relating to food, your body and yourself.
Many also come for support with negative body image and food anxiety, or to untangle long-standing difficult relationships with food, body, or self-worth.
I believe eating difficulties develop for understandable reasons — often as ways of coping with emotions, life pressures, or internal expectations. Therapy provides a space to explore these patterns safely, understand what’s driving them, and begin to develop more sustainable ways of relating to food, your body and yourself.
01875 440527 View 01875 440527
Photo of Steve Hardie - Bu Therapy, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Bu Therapy
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Penicuik EH26
I can help in areas such as addiction,anxiety, depression, eating disorders, OCD, panic attack, personality disorder, PTSD, and self-esteem.
Bu Therapy works with YOU. You are, after all, the expert with what is going on in your life today. Together we will work on areas that might be affecting your life and what you would like to change. CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) looks at the present rather than the past and identifies negative or maladaptive thinking styles that make you see things differently and out of focus. I will work with you in a collaborative manner so we can correct this “blurred view” of life and bring clarity, focus, and direction back into your life, and “together we can come out of the darkness and into the light".
I can help in areas such as addiction,anxiety, depression, eating disorders, OCD, panic attack, personality disorder, PTSD, and self-esteem.
Bu Therapy works with YOU. You are, after all, the expert with what is going on in your life today. Together we will work on areas that might be affecting your life and what you would like to change. CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) looks at the present rather than the past and identifies negative or maladaptive thinking styles that make you see things differently and out of focus. I will work with you in a collaborative manner so we can correct this “blurred view” of life and bring clarity, focus, and direction back into your life, and “together we can come out of the darkness and into the light".
0131 381 8361 View 0131 381 8361
Photo of Tracy Carlisle, Counsellor
Tracy Carlisle
Counsellor
Lasswade EH18
I work with adults and adolescents (13+) navigating the challenges of anxiety & depression, bereavement & loss, low self-esteem and relationships.
I believe that therapy should be a calm, supportive space to slow things down and understand what is happening beneath the surface. My approach is warm and tailored entirely to your needs because I know real change only happens when you feel safe, heard and not judged.
I work with adults and adolescents (13+) navigating the challenges of anxiety & depression, bereavement & loss, low self-esteem and relationships.
I believe that therapy should be a calm, supportive space to slow things down and understand what is happening beneath the surface. My approach is warm and tailored entirely to your needs because I know real change only happens when you feel safe, heard and not judged.
0131 381 3021 View 0131 381 3021
Photo of Helen-Marie Tuiwaiwai - Evolve CBT and EMDR, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Evolve CBT and EMDR
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Dalkeith EH22
I work with adults and young people experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, stress, social anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life transitions.
I specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and EMDR. I offer evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, and low self-esteem. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your individual needs, providing a safe and confidential space to explore concerns, strengthen emotional wellbeing, and work towards your personal goals.
I work with adults and young people experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, stress, social anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life transitions.
I specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and EMDR. I offer evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, and low self-esteem. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your individual needs, providing a safe and confidential space to explore concerns, strengthen emotional wellbeing, and work towards your personal goals.
0131 381 4815 View 0131 381 4815
Photo of Lesley Murray, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Lesley Murray
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Dalkeith EH22
Most of us will experience difficulties that we need support and help with. Therapy is one way to get help and involves talking openly and honestly with a sensitive and skilled listener, to agree and work towards meaningful change. It is a relational process, because talking to a professional about our difficulties requires safety and trust, which develops in the context of the therapy relationship. It takes courage to reach out and ask for help, especially when that means talking to a stranger. You don't have to face things on your own.
Most of us will experience difficulties that we need support and help with. Therapy is one way to get help and involves talking openly and honestly with a sensitive and skilled listener, to agree and work towards meaningful change. It is a relational process, because talking to a professional about our difficulties requires safety and trust, which develops in the context of the therapy relationship. It takes courage to reach out and ask for help, especially when that means talking to a stranger. You don't have to face things on your own.
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Photo of Stuart Benney - Stuart Benney Counselling & Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Stuart Benney Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Bonnyrigg EH19
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, trauma, loss, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
I offer counselling and psychotherapy tailored to your individual needs. I have particular experience supporting people affected by childhood and adult trauma, as well as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and low self-esteem. Sessions are available face-to-face, online, and as walking therapy.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, trauma, loss, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
I offer counselling and psychotherapy tailored to your individual needs. I have particular experience supporting people affected by childhood and adult trauma, as well as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and low self-esteem. Sessions are available face-to-face, online, and as walking therapy.
0131 381 2849 View 0131 381 2849
Photo of Carolyn Cassidy, Counsellor, MBACP
Carolyn Cassidy
Counsellor, MBACP
Bonnyrigg EH19
Hello and a warm welcome. Counselling is a process in which a trained therapist can help you to understand and deal with difficult emotions that you may be experiencing. These can be linked with previous difficult life experiences. People often seek counselling when they are going through challenging times in their lives. You may be feeling low, anxious or depressed. I can help you make sense of what is happening and try to help you to find ways of dealing with this.
Hello and a warm welcome. Counselling is a process in which a trained therapist can help you to understand and deal with difficult emotions that you may be experiencing. These can be linked with previous difficult life experiences. People often seek counselling when they are going through challenging times in their lives. You may be feeling low, anxious or depressed. I can help you make sense of what is happening and try to help you to find ways of dealing with this.
0131 510 4167 View 0131 510 4167
Photo of Amy Caffrey Mbacp, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Amy Caffrey Mbacp
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Anxiety, stress and low mood can leave us feeling overwhelmed and difficult to know how to manage this both in our personal and professional lives. Talking to a therapist can be quite daunting. However, I truly believe talking through a problem can really help. I can help you to identify and understand issues you are struggling with and together we can come up with a plan on how to help you overcome these. I have vast experience in mental health and some of my most recent work has been working through work related dress, neurodiversity, social anxiety and gender dysphoria.
Anxiety, stress and low mood can leave us feeling overwhelmed and difficult to know how to manage this both in our personal and professional lives. Talking to a therapist can be quite daunting. However, I truly believe talking through a problem can really help. I can help you to identify and understand issues you are struggling with and together we can come up with a plan on how to help you overcome these. I have vast experience in mental health and some of my most recent work has been working through work related dress, neurodiversity, social anxiety and gender dysphoria.
01875 444628 View 01875 444628

See more therapy options for Midlothian

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.