Perfectionism Therapy in Northfield, IL

EGS Therapy offers evidence-based treatment for perfectionism, self-criticism, overthinking, and feeling like nothing is ever enough.

Signs of Perfectionism

    • Feeling anxious or tense about mistakes

    • Shame after perceived failure

    • Difficulty feeling satisfied

    • Fear of disappointing others

    • Feeling “not good enough”

    • Chronic pressure to do more

    • All-or-nothing thinking

    • Harsh self-criticism

    • Constant second-guessing

    • Mental replaying of mistakes

    • Difficulty making decisions

    • Believing rest has to be earned

    • Difficulty expressing needs

    • Fear of conflict or disapproval

    • Resentment from overextending

    • Feeling responsible for others’ emotions

    • Trouble being vulnerable

    • Feeling unappreciated despite doing so much

    • Overworking or overpreparing

    • Procrastination due to fear of doing it wrong

    • People-pleasing

    • Avoiding tasks where success is uncertain

    • Difficulty asking for help

    • Trouble slowing down or resting

Perfectionism isn’t really about wanting things to be perfect. It is often driven by fear — fear of failure, criticism, disappointing others, making mistakes, or not being “enough.” While perfectionism may help you achieve, perform, or feel more in control, it can also create intense pressure, self-doubt, procrastination, burnout, anxiety, and difficulty feeling satisfied.

Brené Brown describes perfectionism as a way of protecting ourselves from the painful feelings of shame, judgment, and blame. In this sense, perfectionism can become an attempt to avoid criticism or rejection by doing everything “right.” The problem is that no one can avoid mistakes completely, and the constant effort to do so can become exhausting and unsustainable.

Therapy can help you understand the fears and beliefs that keep perfectionism in place, reduce harsh self-criticism, and develop a more flexible, compassionate relationship with yourself. The goal is not to stop caring or striving, but to move from fear-based striving toward a healthier pursuit of excellence — one that allows for growth, mistakes, satisfaction, and a fuller sense of self-worth.

Definitions of perfectionism adapted from Brené Brown’s Atlas of the Heart.

Therapy Can Help:

    • Less self-doubt

    • Reduced perfectionism or people-pleasing

    • Greater decisiveness

    • Feeling more comfortable being authentic

    • A clearer sense of values

    • More intentional decision-making

    • Greater fulfillment

    • A life that feels aligned rather than just functional

    • Reduced anxiety or panic

    • Improved mood

    • Better sleep

    • Fewer intrusive or racing thoughts

    • Feeling less overwhelmed

    • Managing strong emotions more effectively

    • Responding instead of reacting

    • Tolerating distress without shutting down or escalating

    • Feeling more emotionally steady

    • Feel calmer without losing your edge

    • Succeed without feeling constant pressure

    • Stop feeling "behind"

    • Communicating more effectively

    • Setting and maintaining boundaries

    • Reducing conflict

    • Feeling more connected and less lonely

Related Areas: OCD, Depression, Eating Disorders, Stress, Relationships, Self-Esteem, Anxiety

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