James Doherty

In person: Leicester Centre for Psychodynamic Counselling, 12 Princess Road West, LE1 6TP

Online: Across the UK

Book your first session here: jdoherty.co.uk/contact

Psychodynamic Counsellor in Leicester & Online – for Shame, Perfectionism & Self-Worth

Do you fear being criticised, rejected or abandoned?

Perhaps you long to be understood but worry about burdening another with your problems?

You feel sad, guilty, and being angry feels destructive. You’re pressured to be “good” or “perfect” to earn closeness, making self-assertion and conflict resolution feel impossible. You may over-idealise others, then feel like a failure in comparison. Maybe you believe self-care is selfish, and joy comes at a cost. Self-hatred feels familiar – even comforting – and there’s relief in feeling worthless.

Would you like to access real self-worth and fill that emptiness? Imagine living free from persecutory shame and guilt, relating to others with confidence, and being happy with who you are without being self-centred. To stand up for yourself in a controlled, loving way. To build secure, respectful relationships without fear of rejection. To finally allow joy and opportunity.

Through warm curiosity, we’ll uncover the roots of depression and anxiety, not just “cope.” You’ll gain deep insight, untangle years of pain, and move toward lasting change. Issues from past relationships can be healed in therapy, without shame. We’ll explore your experiences, thoughts, and dreams without intrusion.

I specialise in:

• Chronic shame, self-criticism, and self-hatred
• Perfectionism and the fear of not being "good enough"
• Fear of rejection, abandonment, or criticism
• Guilt, anger, and difficulty with assertiveness
• Depression and anxiety rooted in early relationships

Trained in psychodynamic principles, I work with the unconscious patterns that shape your relationships and sense of self.

I offer in-person sessions at Leicester Centre for Psychodynamic Counselling (12 Princess Road West, LE1 6TP) and online therapy across the UK.

Book a free 30-minute consultation (no obligation):

www.jdoherty.co.uk/contact

Pick a time that suits you — no back-and-forth needed. If it's a good fit, regular sessions are £50 for 50 minutes.

Your free 30-minute consultation:

We'll talk about what's bringing you in and what you're hoping to get out of it. I'll ask a bit about your background and relationships. You'll get the chance to ask me anything about how I work.

I'll go through the practical bits. Ongoing sessions are £50 for 50 minutes, weekly. We'll also cover confidentiality and its limits.

You don't have to decide on the spot. Take a day or two, and if it feels right, we'll sort out a time.