Self Esteem Counselling in Barnet
![Photo of Lotte Friedrich, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c8c3995-83ec-4bf3-9138-d21773196bfd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you not living as you would like to? Maybe you know what is holding you back, maybe it’s just a feeling things could be better. Past experiences shape us; affecting how we feel, what we do, the relationships we form and the lives we lead. Trauma, be it big and dramatic, or small and subtle, can impact our day to day lives. Struggling from unprocessed issues might show up as low self-esteem, heightened anxiety or feeling down. We cope best we can and having therapy to address our difficulties and make changes can be a daunting prospect. I see therapy as a collaborative journey that can enable new ways of being and living.
Are you not living as you would like to? Maybe you know what is holding you back, maybe it’s just a feeling things could be better. Past experiences shape us; affecting how we feel, what we do, the relationships we form and the lives we lead. Trauma, be it big and dramatic, or small and subtle, can impact our day to day lives. Struggling from unprocessed issues might show up as low self-esteem, heightened anxiety or feeling down. We cope best we can and having therapy to address our difficulties and make changes can be a daunting prospect. I see therapy as a collaborative journey that can enable new ways of being and living.
![Photo of Dr Sheila Ufot, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af0c2c7a-77f8-4d8b-bf96-0ffcc9f7585e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a registered Counselling Psychologist based in London, with years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with such difficulties as stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I aim to tailor the therapy approach to each client's individual needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of clients for taking that first step!
I am a registered Counselling Psychologist based in London, with years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with such difficulties as stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I aim to tailor the therapy approach to each client's individual needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of clients for taking that first step!
![Photo of Judith Herbert, DCounsPsych, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a29b82c1-af6f-4ddb-a275-2fa6a678803b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy can make a difference - it can help you to carry on when you feel that life is impossible. Each of us has our own story to tell, and our own particular reason for choosing therapy. Perhaps you are finding it hard to cope with the end of a relationship? Or feeling the pain of raw grief at losing a loved one? You may have been living with painful feelings and thoughts for a long time, perhaps because of an unhappy relationship with parents or siblings - the effects of dysfunctional relationships can build up over years, affecting your self-esteem and confidence.
Therapy can make a difference - it can help you to carry on when you feel that life is impossible. Each of us has our own story to tell, and our own particular reason for choosing therapy. Perhaps you are finding it hard to cope with the end of a relationship? Or feeling the pain of raw grief at losing a loved one? You may have been living with painful feelings and thoughts for a long time, perhaps because of an unhappy relationship with parents or siblings - the effects of dysfunctional relationships can build up over years, affecting your self-esteem and confidence.
![Photo of Digna Patel, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5254979f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
People reach out to me when they're tired of not feeling good enough. You may not know why you feel like you do and that's okay. Comparing yourself to others may make you doubt yourself. You may struggle to say "no" and worry about what people think. You may feel anxious and/or stressed and find it difficult to switch off properly. Constantly overthinking situations can be exhausting. You may want to find better ways of coping and feel more in control of life. Being more aware of your feelings and needs can help with communication. Putting in boundaries for yourself can improve relationships with those around you.
People reach out to me when they're tired of not feeling good enough. You may not know why you feel like you do and that's okay. Comparing yourself to others may make you doubt yourself. You may struggle to say "no" and worry about what people think. You may feel anxious and/or stressed and find it difficult to switch off properly. Constantly overthinking situations can be exhausting. You may want to find better ways of coping and feel more in control of life. Being more aware of your feelings and needs can help with communication. Putting in boundaries for yourself can improve relationships with those around you.
![Photo of Gemma Chapman - Gemma Chapman Therapy , UKCP Trainee](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7332317f-31ed-42de-82e3-c4f88598dc33/1/320x400.jpeg)
I truly believe that, as human beings, we are all wonderfully unique and have an innate desire to lead a life of fulfillment and purpose. Sometimes, however, we can become disconnected from ourselves, others and the world around us. We can feel lost, disillusioned, and asking ourselves the question ‘how did I get here’? I understand seeking support can feel overwhelming, but being alone with it all can feel just as hard. I provide a space where we can meet and work together at your own pace to explore the challenges that brought you here.
I truly believe that, as human beings, we are all wonderfully unique and have an innate desire to lead a life of fulfillment and purpose. Sometimes, however, we can become disconnected from ourselves, others and the world around us. We can feel lost, disillusioned, and asking ourselves the question ‘how did I get here’? I understand seeking support can feel overwhelming, but being alone with it all can feel just as hard. I provide a space where we can meet and work together at your own pace to explore the challenges that brought you here.
![Photo of Eleni Colocassis, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b711925-6621-4b3b-b41e-509faac2f202/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults and young people, who are experiencing challenges that affect their day-to-day life. These include relationship and family issues, divorce, abuse, panic disorders and child related issues - to mention just a few. Sometimes these challenges can lead to feeling isolated or confused, depression, anxiety or stress. Maybe you have struggled with fitting into society or you have been struggling with low self esteem. Either way, I can offer you a safe space to gently explore your experiences.
I work with adults and young people, who are experiencing challenges that affect their day-to-day life. These include relationship and family issues, divorce, abuse, panic disorders and child related issues - to mention just a few. Sometimes these challenges can lead to feeling isolated or confused, depression, anxiety or stress. Maybe you have struggled with fitting into society or you have been struggling with low self esteem. Either way, I can offer you a safe space to gently explore your experiences.
![Photo of Dr Jyoti Pooni, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ebad531-2d9c-4e1a-808a-a82437423ad8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I’m Jyoti, a warm, caring and highly skilled Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years experience. I have specialised in working with children, young people, parents and families in the NHS and charity sector across community, outpatient and inpatient settings. I am passionate about helping individuals manage their wellbeing. My aim is to empower you to build on your strengths and skills and to thrive and strive for the best in each other achieving your potential as individuals and as a family unit. I am experienced in working with difficulties such as low mood, anxiety, low self esteem, trauma, eating and sleep problems.
Hi, I’m Jyoti, a warm, caring and highly skilled Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years experience. I have specialised in working with children, young people, parents and families in the NHS and charity sector across community, outpatient and inpatient settings. I am passionate about helping individuals manage their wellbeing. My aim is to empower you to build on your strengths and skills and to thrive and strive for the best in each other achieving your potential as individuals and as a family unit. I am experienced in working with difficulties such as low mood, anxiety, low self esteem, trauma, eating and sleep problems.
![Photo of Jorge Salavisa, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3a7f80a-3033-435f-bfbd-ec8fc49fba22/3/320x400.jpeg)
Whatever you may be struggling with, my aim is to help you understand and overcome your struggles, while supporting you in finding your way to a happier and more enriching life. In my practice I work with clients on a wide range of issues such as depression, anxiety, low-mood, relationship challenges and family difficulties, low self-esteem, loss, trauma and others. I am a firm believer that counselling is a collaborative process we embark upon together and I offer a genuine commitment to it. I deeply value the relationship I develop with my clients and I believe it to be a key part of the success of the therapeutic process.
Whatever you may be struggling with, my aim is to help you understand and overcome your struggles, while supporting you in finding your way to a happier and more enriching life. In my practice I work with clients on a wide range of issues such as depression, anxiety, low-mood, relationship challenges and family difficulties, low self-esteem, loss, trauma and others. I am a firm believer that counselling is a collaborative process we embark upon together and I offer a genuine commitment to it. I deeply value the relationship I develop with my clients and I believe it to be a key part of the success of the therapeutic process.
![Photo of Shira Freeman, MA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97177dce-b584-4175-b7c4-40cba1a8a4e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a CBT Psychotherapist with over 20 years experience working with adults, children/adolescents in England and abroad. Using solution- focused strategies from CBT and ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy and mindfulness), I have successfully treated many clients with various forms of anxiety, OCD, depression and life crises. I offer both short and longer term therapy in a safe, non-judgemental and supportive space. The areas I specialise in are: anxieties - GAD, phobias, panic disorder, social anxiety, test anxiety, health anxiety, OCD, trichotillomania, self-esteem, life changes, and depression.
I am a CBT Psychotherapist with over 20 years experience working with adults, children/adolescents in England and abroad. Using solution- focused strategies from CBT and ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy and mindfulness), I have successfully treated many clients with various forms of anxiety, OCD, depression and life crises. I offer both short and longer term therapy in a safe, non-judgemental and supportive space. The areas I specialise in are: anxieties - GAD, phobias, panic disorder, social anxiety, test anxiety, health anxiety, OCD, trichotillomania, self-esteem, life changes, and depression.
![Photo of Paul Schofield, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ecfb09d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I bring a thoroughly up-to-date approach in helping people deal with a wide variety of emotional difficulties, including: Depression, anxiety and panic attacks, relationship problems, low-self esteem, loss and bereavement, addiction, obsessive compulsive problems, trauma and phobias, to name a few.
I know that seeking out a counsellor can be no easy task, and if you're reading this it's possible that you may have just had enough with feeling the way that you do. Sometimes we all need support in finding a way through, and in offering that support I bring the depth of my expertise and experience as a counsellor. I work with warmth, compassion and integrity, and a genuine desire to help a person tackle the particular difficulties facing them (see my video below). As a therapist I have some 20 years experience in supporting clients of all ages and from diverse backgrounds.
I bring a thoroughly up-to-date approach in helping people deal with a wide variety of emotional difficulties, including: Depression, anxiety and panic attacks, relationship problems, low-self esteem, loss and bereavement, addiction, obsessive compulsive problems, trauma and phobias, to name a few.
I know that seeking out a counsellor can be no easy task, and if you're reading this it's possible that you may have just had enough with feeling the way that you do. Sometimes we all need support in finding a way through, and in offering that support I bring the depth of my expertise and experience as a counsellor. I work with warmth, compassion and integrity, and a genuine desire to help a person tackle the particular difficulties facing them (see my video below). As a therapist I have some 20 years experience in supporting clients of all ages and from diverse backgrounds.
![Photo of Claire Jakobsson - CJ Therapies , DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6540333-cbd3-4632-b9ff-288164152ec8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Integrative therapist registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I provide emotional support for Children, Young People and Parents. My approach with children is play based and creative therapy. My work with parents is taken from a relational approach helping parents to learn about their attachment styles building on their understanding of their child's development and improving relationships. My support helps children understand their feelings, improving confidence, self esteem, anxiety, behaviours, and emotional wellbeing.
I am an Integrative therapist registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I provide emotional support for Children, Young People and Parents. My approach with children is play based and creative therapy. My work with parents is taken from a relational approach helping parents to learn about their attachment styles building on their understanding of their child's development and improving relationships. My support helps children understand their feelings, improving confidence, self esteem, anxiety, behaviours, and emotional wellbeing.
15 Second Videos
Paul Schofield
CJ Therapies
Stavros Orfanos
Tanya Ayala Gordon
Ruth Dines
Rhea Dodhia
Yveline Cécile Arnaud
Hannah Kelland
Higher Vibes Corner
![Photo of Lauren Stock, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23e77e1c-f241-4986-a173-3c322ae067a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Stock
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barnet EN5
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialised in treating adults with single or complex Trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Body Image issues, Obsessions / Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Self-Harm, Mood Swings, Phobias, Panic Disorder, Depression, Low Self Esteem and Anxiety. I feel that the therapeutic relationship is the biggest factor in helping you to resolve your difficulties. I will offer you a warm, non-judgemental, collaborative space where you can speak freely at your own pace. My approach is to help to meet your unique needs, wherever you are in your life, so that we can find a way forward and help make a difference in your life.
I have specialised in treating adults with single or complex Trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Body Image issues, Obsessions / Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Self-Harm, Mood Swings, Phobias, Panic Disorder, Depression, Low Self Esteem and Anxiety. I feel that the therapeutic relationship is the biggest factor in helping you to resolve your difficulties. I will offer you a warm, non-judgemental, collaborative space where you can speak freely at your own pace. My approach is to help to meet your unique needs, wherever you are in your life, so that we can find a way forward and help make a difference in your life.
![Photo of Dr Andrea Oskis, PhD, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/509eda4e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We come to therapy for all sorts of different reasons. Perhaps the most important thing to say is that there is no single, “right” reason. You might come to therapy because things have happened to you, such as a death, a divorce or a loss of something else, like a job. Or perhaps you have specific symptoms or feelings of depression, anxiety, stress, anger, low self-esteem or a lack of confidence. Or you may be experiencing issues in relationships, with people or with other things, e.g. food. Or it may be the case that you can’t pinpoint what’s wrong, things just don’t feel right and life simply isn’t going the way you expected.
We come to therapy for all sorts of different reasons. Perhaps the most important thing to say is that there is no single, “right” reason. You might come to therapy because things have happened to you, such as a death, a divorce or a loss of something else, like a job. Or perhaps you have specific symptoms or feelings of depression, anxiety, stress, anger, low self-esteem or a lack of confidence. Or you may be experiencing issues in relationships, with people or with other things, e.g. food. Or it may be the case that you can’t pinpoint what’s wrong, things just don’t feel right and life simply isn’t going the way you expected.
![Photo of Sabina Marriott, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ffd41a9-ed27-492a-83b4-eb09d8a8b8cd/1/320x400.jpeg)
You may have an idea of what you would like support with, but often it can be hard to define how you're feeling. An initial assessment allows us to unpack your difficulties & start to make sense of things. I have 20 years experience of helping people with OCD, phobias, social anxiety, generalised anxiety, worry, panic, emetophobia, health anxiety, depression, body dysmorphic disorder, habit disorders (e.g. skin picking & hair pulling), low self-esteem, perfectionism, stress & insomnia. It is common to experience more than one of these at the same time; I can support you to understand the relationship between them & where to start.
You may have an idea of what you would like support with, but often it can be hard to define how you're feeling. An initial assessment allows us to unpack your difficulties & start to make sense of things. I have 20 years experience of helping people with OCD, phobias, social anxiety, generalised anxiety, worry, panic, emetophobia, health anxiety, depression, body dysmorphic disorder, habit disorders (e.g. skin picking & hair pulling), low self-esteem, perfectionism, stress & insomnia. It is common to experience more than one of these at the same time; I can support you to understand the relationship between them & where to start.
![Photo of Jeremy Young, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c3b85f4-ace1-4535-ac8d-37077bdb152c/1/320x400.jpeg)
At certain life stages we may experience anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, feelings of a loss or meaningless, loss of direction or purpose, or difficulty with building meaningful relationships. I will work with you to identify what these symptoms mean and how they may be pointing you to discover a deeper sense of self. My approach is integrative and allows for self-discovery. My methodology offers focus, allowing you to explore and connect to a truer sense of who you are. I encourage you to develop a sense of curiosity to understand yourself more profoundly. We will work together, to support your needs.
At certain life stages we may experience anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, feelings of a loss or meaningless, loss of direction or purpose, or difficulty with building meaningful relationships. I will work with you to identify what these symptoms mean and how they may be pointing you to discover a deeper sense of self. My approach is integrative and allows for self-discovery. My methodology offers focus, allowing you to explore and connect to a truer sense of who you are. I encourage you to develop a sense of curiosity to understand yourself more profoundly. We will work together, to support your needs.
![Photo of Georgina Georgiou, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f232d291-7794-4f3e-8f7d-0680c65c9bff/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you are reading this, it is likely that you have some concerns that you are ready to explore. Taking the step to book your first appointment can be an issue in itself. My aim is to offer you a space to feel safe and heard; a warm, confidential, and non-judgmental environment in which to speak freely and explore what’s happening and what’s possible. I am approachable, understanding, empathetic, and I listen. My training is in Humanistic Integrative Counselling. I have experience in working with emotional and mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, panic attacks, trauma, self-esteem, and feelings of being stuck.
If you are reading this, it is likely that you have some concerns that you are ready to explore. Taking the step to book your first appointment can be an issue in itself. My aim is to offer you a space to feel safe and heard; a warm, confidential, and non-judgmental environment in which to speak freely and explore what’s happening and what’s possible. I am approachable, understanding, empathetic, and I listen. My training is in Humanistic Integrative Counselling. I have experience in working with emotional and mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, panic attacks, trauma, self-esteem, and feelings of being stuck.
![Photo of Rochelle Newington, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8442d5e-fc87-4a75-ac0c-c125511ac4c1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life experiences may have left you with low self esteem, lack of a sense of who you are, no trust in your own judgement, anxiety, depression, anger or lack of motivation.
Taking that first step, seeking help with difficult feelings, thoughts or experiences takes courage and strength. Offering a non judgemental, compassionate and supportive space I commit to ensuring you have control of the pace and subject matter you bring, and to work with you to find new perspectives, build trust in your own judgement and a stronger sense of self. With experience in hospital, private residential units, charitable organisations and private clients, with adolescents, young adults and adults or varying genders, I work with long and short term clients.
Life experiences may have left you with low self esteem, lack of a sense of who you are, no trust in your own judgement, anxiety, depression, anger or lack of motivation.
Taking that first step, seeking help with difficult feelings, thoughts or experiences takes courage and strength. Offering a non judgemental, compassionate and supportive space I commit to ensuring you have control of the pace and subject matter you bring, and to work with you to find new perspectives, build trust in your own judgement and a stronger sense of self. With experience in hospital, private residential units, charitable organisations and private clients, with adolescents, young adults and adults or varying genders, I work with long and short term clients.
![Photo of Simone Russell, MBACP Snr. Accred, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54e26689-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
You may Consider counselling for various reasons, there could be a combination of unresolved issues, perhaps difficulties , understanding present day triggers. Coming to counselling is a big step in recognizing that clarity and movement forward is the ultimate goal... you may be suffering with: Depression, Anxiety, Menapause and all the emotional challenges this brings ,loss, low self esteem whatever it is , your feelings , thoughts and emotions are at the centre of our work together. Most importantly I hope my down to earth yet professional approach will enable you to relax ,whilst disclosing difficult life experiences.
You may Consider counselling for various reasons, there could be a combination of unresolved issues, perhaps difficulties , understanding present day triggers. Coming to counselling is a big step in recognizing that clarity and movement forward is the ultimate goal... you may be suffering with: Depression, Anxiety, Menapause and all the emotional challenges this brings ,loss, low self esteem whatever it is , your feelings , thoughts and emotions are at the centre of our work together. Most importantly I hope my down to earth yet professional approach will enable you to relax ,whilst disclosing difficult life experiences.
![Photo of Esin Osman, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c5e427d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a professionally qualified counsellor and a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I have experience of working with adults and young people. I have helped clients suffering with loss, relationship/family issues, anxiety, depression, abuse, and suicidal ideation's. I also have experience in the areas of - low self esteem, stress, work issues, sexuality, culture, diversity and bullying. I have an understanding of cultural needs and expectations.
I am a professionally qualified counsellor and a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I have experience of working with adults and young people. I have helped clients suffering with loss, relationship/family issues, anxiety, depression, abuse, and suicidal ideation's. I also have experience in the areas of - low self esteem, stress, work issues, sexuality, culture, diversity and bullying. I have an understanding of cultural needs and expectations.
![Photo of Sara Bentwood, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32bd6eb0-9fcb-435a-9476-363341ace73c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years NHS experience providing highly specialist psychological assessment, formulation and interventions to both children and adolescents, other family members including siblings and parents/carers, as well as adults. I have a great deal of experience working with psychological difficulties such as anxiety including OCD, panic attacks, phobias and social anxiety; depression, low self-esteem and poor body image; behaviour difficulties, anger management, school issues such as bullying and family difficulties as well as difficulties with feeding and sleep.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years NHS experience providing highly specialist psychological assessment, formulation and interventions to both children and adolescents, other family members including siblings and parents/carers, as well as adults. I have a great deal of experience working with psychological difficulties such as anxiety including OCD, panic attacks, phobias and social anxiety; depression, low self-esteem and poor body image; behaviour difficulties, anger management, school issues such as bullying and family difficulties as well as difficulties with feeding and sleep.
See more therapy options for Barnet
Nearby Self Esteem Counsellors Searches for Barnet
- Borehamwood
- Brookmans Park
- Cheshunt
- Cuffley
- Edgware
- Enfield
- Hatfield
- Potters Bar
- Radlett
- Shenley
- Stanmore
- Waltham Cross
Self Esteem Counsellors
When should a person seek therapy for low self-esteem?
When self-esteem problems begin to disrupt the healthy daily functioning of an individual, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If a person finds that they are not engaging with friends for fear of being judged, not completing work assignments because they don’t think they’re capable, or not finding romantic love because they don’t feel they’re worthy of it, a therapist may be able to help.
What are the signs of low self-esteem?
Low self-esteem is a common issue that can affect a person's mental and emotional well-being. Some common signs of low self-esteem include negative self-talk, perfectionism, social anxiety, difficulty making decisions, an inability to set boundaries, people-pleasing, and others. A lack of belief in oneself or one’s abilities and a feeling of not being worthy or deserving underlie most of these characteristics.
What causes low self-esteem?
Feelings of low self-worth can begin in childhood or adulthood. Being raised by a highly critical parent or growing up feeling constant disapproval can stay with a person well into adulthood. Specific issues in adulthood may also be a cause of low self-esteem. An unhappy relationship, a dysfunctional work or school experience can impact a person’s feelings of self-worth.
How can therapy improve self-esteem?
Therapists can help identify negative thought patterns that keep the client stuck in a loop of destructive self-talk and develop coping skills to change the voice in their head. A therapist can help with goal-setting, so that clients are better able to stay on task and build confidence from successfully completing work they’re proud of. Coaching a client on how to better communicate can improve relationships. These skills can result in someone with low self-esteem feeling empowered and living with less fear.