Providing In-Person Perfectionism Counselling In Vancouver AND VIRTUALLY ACROSS ALL OF BC

Working on your perfectionism does not mean that you stop achieving. However, it does mean that we will help you operate from a healthy desire to achieve, rather than a fear that you will be judged, rejected, or criticised by others. Part of what burns out perfectionists is the fear that they are not good enough for public consumption, and we want to change that.

You bet it is! You’re describing ‘other-oriented perfectionism,’ which is when other people in your life are the primary target of your judgement and criticism. This type of perfectionism often damages relationships in your personal and professional life, as others grow to resent your unrelenting standards. We can help with this type of perfectionism, too.

OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) is a mental health condition in which people are preoccupied with intrusive thoughts that only alleviate when they engage in compulsive behaviours (like cleaning, checking, organising, or controlling). While many people who are perfectionists joke that “I have OCD,” it is in fact an entirely different condition. Perfectionism can overlap with other mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD, but it can also be a stand alone issue. Your therapist can help you clarify whether your perfectionism is a symptom of another mental health condition.

Perfectionism is closely related to a fear of judgement or disapproval from others, combined with a self worth that is conditional upon being impressive and high achieving. Early childhood experiences, such as having parents with unrealistically high expectations or being raised in a highly critical environment can contribute to perfectionism. Some mental health disorders, such as social anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder can lead to someone adopting perfectionist behaviours.