Childhood neglect can fundamentally shape how you see yourself, others, and the world around you. For many who have experienced emotional neglect, a lack of care, or absence of support during childhood, the impact can feel confusing, isolating, and persistent. Neglect doesn't always leave visible marks, but it can influence your thoughts, emotions, and relationships in ways that are challenging to put into words.
You might feel deeply unworthy, hesitant to trust, or unsure of your own needs. You may find it hard to connect with others or believe that your feelings matter. Sometimes it feels like you're stuck in patterns that don't make sense or are hard to break. These are not personal failings — they are adaptive responses from a nervous system that learned to cope without consistent support.
Neglect can shape how you see yourself and the world around you. Often, it leads to a persistent sense of emptiness, feeling unworthy, or struggling to connect with others. These patterns can continue into adulthood, impacting self-esteem and relationships in ways that feel difficult to change.
These patterns are not your fault. They are your mind's way of coping when essential emotional needs were unmet. Healing means learning to reconnect with your emotions and understand your worth.
Therapy offers a compassionate space to explore the impact of childhood neglect and how it continues to influence your life today. Rather than focusing solely on the past, we will work together to understand how early experiences shape current feelings and behaviours. Through psychoeducation, somatic awareness, and a person-centred approach, you can begin to make sense of your emotions and develop a stronger sense of self-worth.
Healing from neglect is not about blaming the past, but about recognising how those early patterns continue to affect you. It's about reclaiming your right to feel valued, seen, and supported.
In our sessions, you will never be rushed to share more than you feel comfortable with. We will focus on creating a space where your feelings are validated and explored with care. Whether you struggle with trust, self-doubt, or feeling disconnected from your emotions, therapy can help you learn to honour your experiences and rebuild a sense of safety and connection.
Healing from childhood neglect is not a linear process. Some days will feel easier than others, and that's okay. In our work together, we will practise self-compassion — acknowledging that building a sense of worth and safety takes time. Being gentle with yourself is not a weakness; it's a necessary part of healing.
If you're considering therapy, I'm here to support you. We can start with a free 15-minute consultation to see how you feel about working together. Taking that first step can feel daunting, but you don't have to carry the weight of it all on your own.
Book a Free ConsultationAvailable in Glasgow (Barrhead & Central Glasgow) and Online.
I like to write articles about how trauma can affect your thoughts, emotions, and relationships — and how therapy can gently support you to become yourself again.