Online Perfectionism Therapy for High-Achieving Women
SERVING: Colorado | Massachusetts | New York | Vermont | Florida
Are You Tired of The Constant Pressure to Be Perfect?
Does the relentless drive to meet unattainable standards leave you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and isolated. If you struggle with perfectionism, you’re not alone.
Perfectionism can manifest in various aspects of life, from work to relationships to personal goals, leaving you feeling stuck and defeated. The good news? Change is possible.
I’m Alexis Verbin, LCSW, LICSW at Wellcore Healing, a specialized Perfectionism Therapist for individuals residing in Denver, Boston, NYC, Burlington, Miami, and beyond!
What is Perfectionism?
Perfectionism is a thought and behavior pattern demanding flawless performance. It can manifest as:
Fear of Failure or Rejection
Difficulty Making Decisions or Completing Tasks
Chronic Self-Criticism or Self-Doubt
Procrastination & Avoidance
Stress, Anxiety, or Burnout
Understanding perfectionism is the first step in learning how to manage it. Now, let’s dive into how perfectionism therapy can help.
What is Perfectionism Therapy?
It’s a type of support that helps you break free from the rigid, unrealistic standards that fuel stress, self-criticism, and burnout.
The goal isn’t to lose your ambition or stop caring about quality. Instead, it’s to create a mindset where mistakes are learning opportunities, not proof you’ve failed.
Perfectionism Therapy Benefits
Here are some positive transformations you may experience throughout the therapy process:
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You will learn to replace self-criticism with self-compassion. You will learn to embrace imperfection and be kind to yourself, especially in moments of struggle.
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You will be able to focus on growth and effort instead of flawless results, freeing yourself to try, learn, and just enjoy.
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You will be able to set achievable goals, build confidence like in self-esteem therapy, and make progress without the pressure to be perfect. You will shift from chasing unattainable standards to setting achievable, meaningful goals aligned with your values.
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You will learn proven strategies to manage the pressure of striving for perfection, so you can focus on what truly matters. With less stress taking up time and space, you will be better able to enjoy the present moment.
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You will learn to let go of fears of judgment and rejection to build authentic, fulfilling connections with others.
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Treatment Approach
During therapy, we’ll work together to identify the roots of perfectionistic thinking, recognize unhelpful patterns, and help you heal using a combination of the following:
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CBT works by helping you identify and challenge negative Perfectionism thought patterns, while replacing them with more constructive and realistic beliefs.
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ACT works by encouraging acceptance of your experiences while committing to actions aligned with your values rather than Perfectionism.
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IFS works by exploring and harmonizing the internal parts of yourself that may contribute to Perfectionism thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
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Positive Psychology works by cultivating strengths, gratitude, and as well as resilience in place of focusing on the need to be “Perfect.”
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Mindfulness teaches present-moment awareness and self-compassion to quiet the inner critic and reduce pressures to be perfect at everything.
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Trauma-Informed Therapy addresses past experiences and their impact on Perfectionism tendencies in adulthood, promoting healing and growth.
PERFECTIONISM FAQs
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Yes, perfectionism is more common than many realize. It affects people from all walks of life, particularly high achievers, students, professionals, and those who feel societal or cultural pressure to excel.
While it can initially seem like a positive trait, unchecked perfectionism often leads to constant worry, burnout, and dissatisfaction. Recognizing its prevalence can be the first step in seeking support and finding relief.
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Anyone struggling with Perfectionism would benefit from support.
Perfectionism can be paralyzing, especially for professionally driven women who demand excellence in every aspect of life.
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Most new clients are able to begin within 1–2 weeks, depending on schedule openings. Feel free to ask about evening availability!
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Your first session is a chance to share your experiences and goals in a safe, supportive environment. Here’s what you can expect:
Getting to Know You: I will ask questions about your perfectionistic tendencies, including when they started and how they affect your life.
Identifying Goals: Together, you’ll discuss what you hope to achieve through therapy.
Setting the Tone: I will explain the therapy process and how they’ll work with you to address perfectionism.
This initial session is collaborative and non-judgmental, designed to make you feel comfortable and supported as you begin your journey.
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I’m licensed at the highest level in Colorado (LCSW), Massachusetts (LICSW), and New York (LCSW). I also hold telehealth licenses for Vermont and Florida.
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Perfectionism can create an endless cycle of striving and self-criticism. Here’s how it might affect your mental health and confidence:
Anxiety: The pressure to be “flawless” can lead to chronic stress and worry. Many clients also benefit from anxiety therapy when worry, rumination, or sleep issues take over.
Low Self-Esteem: Constantly comparing yourself to impossible standards can leave you feeling inadequate
Imposter Syndrome: Constantly making sure your work is “perfect” because you constantly fear you will be “found out".” Clients with these types of thoughts also benefit from imposter syndrome therapy.
Burnout: The unrelenting pursuit of perfection can leave you feeling exhausted and overwhelmed.
Additional: Mental, Emotional & Physical Stressors
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Absolutely. Work-related stress is a common outcome of perfectionism and anxiety, especially when high standards collide with tight deadlines or demanding environments. Therapy can help you manage this stress by:
Setting realistic expectations for yourself and others.
Learning to say no and set boundaries at work.
Developing healthy coping skills to help with workplace pressure.
Building confidence in your abilities without overworking or striving for constant perfection.
With the right tools, you can navigate work challenges with less stress and greater ease.
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Email Alexis Verbin, LCSW, LICSW at Wellcore Healing. I’m here to help you heal your relationship with perfectionism!
PERFECTIONISM BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
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Disclaimer:
The books recommended here are for informational and educational purposes only. They are not a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are struggling with perfectionism, anxiety, or any mental health concerns, consider reaching out to a licensed therapist or mental health professional for personalized support.
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This powerful, research-based book focuses on how to embrace vulnerability while also letting go of the need for perfectionism.
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Looking for strategies to break free from perfectionism tendences? This book provides practical guide that offers strategies to break free from perfectionist tendencies.
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Written by a Harvard professor, this book looks at toxic perfectionism vs. healthy striving.
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A CBT-based workbook that provides exercises to manage perfectionism and self-criticism.
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A motivational book on overcoming procrastination and the fear of imperfection in achieving goals.
Start Your Therapy Journey Toward Balance!
Perfectionism Therapy can help you stop striving for impossible standards and start building a life that you actually feel is authentic and fulfilling.
Take the first step today and schedule your free 30-minute phone consultation! If you are ready to begin your journey towards overcoming Perfectionism, please reach out!