THERAPY FOR ANXIETY and PERFECTIONISM
JANET NELSON, LMHC, SOUTH SOUND THERAPY AND COUNSELING: IN PERSON AND ON LINE THERAPY FOR INDIVIDUALS AND COUPLES IN WASHINGTON STATE
Do you feel like you’re drowning under the weight of expectations, but never doing enough?
Anxiety’s favorite question is “what if?” What if, after all of my hard work, it’s not good enough? What if something I did or didn’t do is creating disappointment or frustration for someone else? What if catastrophe strikes? The “what ifs” are loud and relentless, leaving you feeling exhausted and stuck. These anxious thoughts rob you of the joy of the moment and can steal your ability to be present to the people you love.
The most insidious part of this anxious cycle is the critical voice in your head tells you that all of the above is your responsibility. Both personally and professionally, you’ve set the bar impossibly high. The worry is that if you ease up, even a bit, things will devolve into chaos because so many are counting on you to hold it all together.
Therapy for anxiety and perfectionism can help you…
Learn to manage anxious thoughts
Anxiety is like the monster under the bed. As we explore the content and origins of your anxiety, the monster becomes a lot less scary. We will also work on practical strategies that you can implement right away to find some ease.
Learn self compassion
Who knows when it happened, but somewhere along the way your inner critic grew louder and louder, drowning out any other voice. We’ll work to counter these harsh messages and grow self acceptance and self compassion.
Build solid, connected relationships
Anxiety and perfectionism can get in the way of your relationships. As you learn to ease up on yourself a bit and calm your anxious thoughts, you will be more available to cultivate deeply connected relationships with your friends and family.
Increase self esteem and confidence
Anxiety creates self doubt, undermining your ability to speak out, take risks, and let yourself be seen. In therapy we’ll work toward trusting yourself, so that you can show up in life with confidence.
Become more resilient and flexible
Anxiety and perfectionism tell you that you if you let go of complete control, things will fall apart. We’ll work on helping you release some of the control and responsibility that keeps you feeling so overwhelmed. Letting go of perfection leaves room for spontaneity, creativity, and adaptability.
Find more ease in life
Yes, responsibilities are important, but you don’t have to carry the world on your shoulders. Your life should be more than deadlines and expectations. It should also be about enjoyment, rest, and fun.