Help with a negative self-image
Your self-image is how you see, evaluate and interpret yourself. It is shaped by your experiences, upbringing, culture and social environment. A negative self-image can develop without you even noticing, affecting your confidence, relationships and quality of life. A holistic approach focuses on fostering self-acceptance, building confidence and restoring a healthy sense of self-worth.
— what is a negative self-image?
How you learned to see yourself
Self-image is how we see, evaluate and interpret ourselves. It is our perception of who we are, our qualities, abilities and worth as a person. Our self-image can be influenced by various factors, such as our experiences, upbringing, culture and social environment. Over the course of your life, one or more experiences and beliefs can lead you to develop a negative self-image. A negative self-image can affect various aspects of our lives, including our confidence, relationships, career opportunities and overall quality of life.
At Holistische Therapie Rotterdam, we take a holistic approach to self-image. We understand that a negative self-image does not stem only from superficial beliefs about ourselves, but can also be more deeply rooted in our emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Our approach focuses on healing your self-image on every level of your being.
Concerns
● Persistent self-criticism
● Negative inner dialogue
● Lack of confidence
● Fear of being judged by others
● Feeling inadequate
● Comparing yourself to others
● Avoiding challenges and new experiences for fear of failure
● Sometimes not really knowing who you are or what you stand for
— TREATMENT METHODS
How we work
At Holistische Therapie Rotterdam, we offer a range of holistic treatment methods to support you in processing trauma. These include:
Individual therapy
A safe, confidential space where you can explore and transform negative beliefs about yourself. Using cognitive techniques and inner child work, we explore where your negative self-image began and how you can learn to see yourself differently.
Self-compassion & self-acceptance
Self-compassion plays an essential role in healing a negative self-image. It involves developing kindness and understanding towards ourselves, rather than self-criticism and judgement. We learn the skill of self-compassion and work with practical techniques to manage uncertainty and build your self-worth.
Body-oriented therapy
Somatic experiential therapy focuses on involving the body in the healing process. This can help release stored tension and blockages in the body. Through breathing and body awareness, you reconnect with yourself, beyond judgement.
Meaning & authenticity
Exploring your spiritual dimension and finding meaning and purpose in your life can help strengthen your self-worth and confidence. We explore who you are beyond learned beliefs — your authentic self.
— causes & inner strength
From old beliefs
towards inner strength
A negative self-image can have various causes. It may stem from negative past experiences, such as traumatic events, bullying or critical remarks. Comparing yourself negatively with others, perfectionism and a demanding inner critic can also contribute to a negative self-image.
The importance of authenticity
Losing our authentic selves and being unable to be who we truly are can also perpetuate a negative self-image. When we ignore our true needs, desires and values, we may feel disconnected from ourselves and experience a sense of emptiness, which negatively affects our self-image. Your own commitment and responsibility in the process are key: you build healthy coping mechanisms and self-care practices that continue to work even after the programme ends.
