Shame and Self-Criticism
Understanding harsh self-judgement, low self-worth, and feelings of inadequacy
We accept referrals from various health insurances including:
What is Shame and Self-Criticism
Shame and self-criticism can have a significant impact on how you feel about yourself and how you relate to others. Many people describe a persistent inner voice that is critical, harsh, or unforgiving, often leading to feelings of inadequacy, failure, or not being “good enough.”
These patterns can be deeply ingrained and may have developed over time in response to early experiences, expectations, or difficult life events. Even when you understand things logically, the emotional impact can remain strong.
Flexible ways to access support
In-clinic therapy
Calm, confidential setting in Jesmond, designed for comfort, privacy, and a reassuring experience
Online therapy
Flexible and accessible sessions delivered securely from your home environment
How shame and self-criticism develop
Self-critical patterns often develop as a way of coping or protecting yourself, even if they no longer feel helpful.
For example:
Early experiences may shape beliefs about self-worth
High standards or expectations may lead to ongoing self-judgement
Fear of failure or rejection may reinforce critical thinking
Comparing yourself to others may increase feelings of inadequacy
Over time, these patterns can become automatic and difficult to change without support.
Understanding their origins can help reduce their power.
Common experiences
People experiencing shame and self-criticism may notice:
Harsh or persistent self-judgement
Feelings of inadequacy or low self-worth
Difficulty accepting praise or positive feedback
Fear of failure, rejection, or being “found out”
Comparing themselves negatively to others
Avoidance of situations due to fear of judgement
These experiences are often linked with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
What therapy can help with
Therapy focuses on helping you develop a more balanced and compassionate relationship with yourself.
This may include:
Understanding where self-critical patterns come from
Reducing the intensity and impact of self-judgement
Developing self-compassion and emotional support
Building a more stable sense of self-worth
Therapy is tailored to your experiences and progresses at a pace that feels safe and manageable.
What to expect in therapy
Assessment and formulation
We begin by understanding your experiences, including how self-criticism and shame show up in your life.
Identifying patterns
Developing insight
Building emotional balance
Therapy always progresses at a pace that feels safe and appropriate for you.
Common misconceptions
“Self-criticism motivates me”
While it can feel motivating in the short term, harsh self-criticism often increases stress and reduces confidence over time.
“I don’t deserve to be kinder to myself”
This is a common belief. Therapy helps to explore and gently shift this perspective.
“This is just how I am”
These patterns are learned and can change with the right support.
Benefits of therapy
Therapy can help you to:
Reduce self-criticism and harsh inner dialogue
Feel more confident and secure in yourself
Develop self-compassion and emotional resilience
Improve relationships and emotional wellbeing
Feel less defined by shame or past experiences
Many people find that this work has a positive impact across multiple areas of life.
Our approach
At northeast psychology, we offer support for shame and self-criticism that is:
Safe, supportive, and non-judgemental
Grounded in approaches such as Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), ACT, and CBT
Tailored to your individual needs
Focused on meaningful and lasting change
We understand that this work can feel sensitive and ensure it is approached with care and respect.
Is therapy right for you?
You may benefit from therapy if you:
Experience ongoing self-criticism or low self-worth
Feel stuck in patterns of shame or inadequacy
Struggle to be kind to yourself
Want to develop a more balanced and supportive relationship with yourself
If you are unsure, we are happy to help you explore your options.
Next steps
If you are considering support for shame or self-criticism, we offer a free 15-minute consultation to help you decide whether therapy feels right for you.