Member Article

Graduate inspired to pen book to boost self-esteem

A University of Sunderland graduate who grew up struggling with her self-esteem has written a book to help others.

Natalie Overton, who graduated with a counselling degree from the university nine years ago, suffered from severe anxiety, social anxiety, panic attacks and depression during her teenage years.

After seeking the support she needed, Natalie, from Longbenton, realised her true calling – to help others and she has now published her first book.

Natalie, 38, set up her own private practice after graduating, renting spaces in several venues across the North East to help reach more people and bridge the gap between the NHS and private practice.

Her book – Dream Self-esteem: A Counsellor’s Guide to loving yourself and transforming your life – is a self-penned heart-led approach to self-love and personal transformation and she is hoping it will transform lives.

Natalie, 38, said: “I grew up hating myself and I never wanted anyone else to feel like I did.

“I thought writing a book would be more accessible especially for those who can’t afford counselling or feel ready or comfortable speaking to someone face to face.

“I want people to know that if they work on liking themselves their lives can change. Of course, it isn’t always an easy journey, but by teaching all the best mindset tips that I’ve come across, I believe with amazing self-esteem and a positive mindset, people can fly in life.”

During her studies, Natalie grabbed every opportunity to hone her skills as a counsellor with both hands.

As part of her degree Natalie volunteered for North East Counselling Services and for PROPS North East, a charity which supports individuals in Newcastle and North Tyneside affected by someone else's drug or alcohol use.  

Natalie added: “I am so grateful because without the University, I wouldn’t be counselling and I if I wasn’t counselling, I wouldn’t have written my book.

“I learnt so much from my degree and it also helped me with my self-esteem, which ultimately put me in the position to help others.

“I love having the ability to help people help themselves. Caring about people comes naturally to me, not just because it’s a job.”

Dr Rebecca Owens, Head of the School of Psychology at the University of Sunderland, said: “It is wonderful to see Natalie's success following completion of her Counselling degree with us.

“This is such a fantastic way to spread her knowledge and expertise to others and we are incredibly proud to have played such a fundamental part of her journey.”

The University of Sunderland has been named best in the country for student support by the new Daily Mail University Guide 2025.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Bdaily Publishing .