Expecting not to be good enough
You may compare yourself with others, discount what goes well or treat mistakes as proof of a deeper flaw. Praise can be hard to accept while criticism feels immediately believable.
Confidence & self-esteem
When the inner critic takes up too much space.
Self-doubt can influence relationships, work, decisions and the opportunities you allow yourself to take. Online CBT offers adults in Birmingham, Solihull and the West Midlands space to explore these patterns.
How low confidence may affect everyday life
Low confidence and self-esteem are experiences people describe, not diagnoses made by this page.
Holding back or overcompensating
Some people avoid speaking up, setting boundaries or trying something new. Others work excessively, seek approval or aim for impossible standards to prevent feared judgement.
How CBT may help you examine the pattern
The aim is to understand how the pattern developed and consider alternatives, without blaming you for the ways you learned to cope.
Identify recurring beliefs
We can notice the rules, assumptions and predictions that shape how you see yourself in particular situations.
Look at maintaining habits
Avoidance, perfectionism, comparison or seeking approval may protect you from discomfort while leaving negative beliefs untested.
Build a broader view
We may plan manageable actions, review the outcome and practise responding to yourself with greater balance and fairness.
A collaborative starting point
An assessment can explore where confidence feels most affected, what happens in those situations and what you would like to change. It also allows you and Farhana to discuss whether CBT may suit your needs.
Related support
Self-criticism can occur alongside low mood or anxiety and worry. You can learn how CBT works or return to the support overview.