Therapy for low self‑esteem and perfectionism
A harsh inner voice, a sense of never being enough, or standards so high that nothing you do counts. Often it looks like success from the outside and feels like running on empty inside.
Written and reviewed by Ben White, MBACP (Accred) · Last reviewed
£80 · 50 minHackney, Peckham, East Dulwich or onlineMBACP (Accred)
BACP accreditedMBACP (Accred) · no. 401198Low self‑esteem & perfectionism therapy in London: quick facts
- What it is
- Integrative counselling for self‑esteem, for adults aged 18 and over.
- Approaches
- Person‑centred therapy, Cognitive behavioural therapy
- Where
- Hackney E8, Peckham SE15, East Dulwich SE22, or online across the UK
- Cost
- £80 per 50-minute session. Free 20-minute intro call first.
- Therapist
- Ben White, MBACP (Accred), BACP no. 401198
- How to start
- Book a free intro call online, call or text 07498 520 911, or send a message.
What it can feel like
Low self‑esteem and perfectionism often go hand in hand. You might hold yourself to impossibly high standards, then judge yourself harshly when you can’t meet them. You might procrastinate because starting feels too risky, or overwork because stopping feels like failure.
Research suggests perfectionism has been rising steadily for decades, particularly the sense that other people expect perfection from us. If that resonates, you are far from alone.
The critical voice usually developed for a reason. Often it was trying to protect you, from criticism, rejection or failure. Understanding that is the first step to changing your relationship with it.
- Harsh self‑criticism
- Fear of failure
- Procrastination
- People‑pleasing
- Overworking
- Burnout
- Difficulty accepting praise
- Comparing yourself to others
You don’t need a diagnosis, or to have it all worked out, to start.
Calm, collaborative and evidence‑based
I combine person‑centred work, so the critical voice gets understood rather than just argued with, with CBT to loosen the rigid rules you might be living by, such as “I must never make mistakes” or “If I’m not the best, I’m a failure”.
The aim isn’t to lower your standards or stop caring. It is a steadier, kinder relationship with yourself, where you can do things well without being driven by fear.
Perfectionism can make reaching out feel like admitting failure. It isn’t. The intro call is just a conversation.
Low self‑esteem & perfectionism therapy in Hackney, Peckham and East Dulwich
Three private therapy rooms across East and South East London, with online sessions available anywhere in the UK.
Is perfectionism really a problem?
High standards can be healthy. Perfectionism becomes a problem when your self‑worth depends on meeting them, and falling short leads to harsh self‑criticism, anxiety or burnout.
Will therapy make me less driven?
Usually the opposite. Many people find they get more done, and enjoy it more, once fear stops being the main motivator.
How much does self‑esteem therapy cost in London?
Sessions with Ben White are £80 for 50 minutes, in person in Hackney, Peckham or East Dulwich, or online. The first step is a free 20-minute intro call, with no obligation.
Where can I have self‑esteem therapy in London?
In private therapy rooms in Hackney (E8), Peckham (SE15) and East Dulwich (SE22), or by secure video anywhere in the UK. Weekday daytime and evening appointments are available.
