Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Self-esteem is how a child feels about themselves – whether they believe they are capable, likeable and worthwhile. Children with low self-esteem may be very self-critical, avoid trying new things or give up easily. Treatment for low self-esteem in children helps them build a kinder inner voice, recognise their strengths and feel confident to have a go.
If you notice these signs often, it may help to talk with a child psychologist.
Negative self-talk – saying things like “I’m stupid” or “I can’t do anything right”.
Avoiding challenges – not wanting to try new things in case they fail.
Giving up easily – becoming frustrated and stopping when tasks get hard.
Comparing themselves to others – feeling they are never as good as their peers.
Difficulty accepting praise – brushing off compliments or not believing them.
Social withdrawal – holding back from friends, groups or activities.
Low self-esteem can increase the risk of later depression and anxiety
Self-esteem is shaped by experiences, relationships and how children talk to themselves
Praising effort, not just results, helps children keep trying
Self-esteem can be strengthened with practice and support
Self-esteem develops through children’s experiences of success, the messages they hear from important people in their lives, and the way they learn to talk to themselves. Low self-esteem can be linked with anxiety, learning difficulties, bullying or perfectionism.
A meta-analysis of longitudinal studies found that low self-esteem predicts later depression and, to a lesser extent, anxiety (Sowislo & Orth, 2013). This is one reason early support matters.
Cognitive behavioural therapy helps children notice and challenge harsh self-talk, build kinder and more realistic thinking, and set small, achievable goals. Therapy also focuses on recognising strengths, practising new skills and building confidence through action. Parents learn ways to encourage effort, model self-compassion and support their child to take healthy risks.
*Source: Does low self-esteem predict depression and anxiety? A meta-analysis of longitudinal studies – Sowislo & Orth, 2013
“You kept trying!” Praise effort and strategies, not only results.
Make a “things I’m good at” list together and add to it often.
Ask gently, “Would you say that to a friend?”
Small jobs they can succeed at, like helping with dinner, build confidence.
Activities they enjoy help them build skills and friendships.
Call us on 02 9438 2511, email hello@mindboxpsychology.com.au or send us an enquiry. Our reception team will answer your questions.
We’ll match you with a clinical psychologist who works with your concern, face-to-face in St Leonards or through online counselling anywhere in Australia.
Your first session is 60 minutes. You don’t need a referral to book, but with a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate.
Clinical Psychologist, Director of MindBox Psychology
Our Psychologists are highly qualified, with Masters or Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology. We use evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to help children build self-esteem and confidence.
Related pages: Perfectionism in children · Social anxiety in children · Depression in children
Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
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