Perfectionism therapists in Nanaimo, BC
Browse Perfectionism therapists in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada. Compare credentials, specialties and therapeutic approach. Contact a therapist to learn more.
Spencer Copland
Registered Psychotherapist, RCC, MCP
Perfectionism can often look like holding yourself to high standards, but underneath it may feel like pressure, self-criticism, and a fear of making mistakes or not being “good enough.” You might notice difficulty slowing down, overthinking decisions, or feeling like your worth is tied to achievement, productivity, or how well you perform. While perfectionism can sometimes feel motivating, it often comes with anxiety, burnout, and a constant sense that things could fall apart.
In our work together, we’ll explore the underlying experiences and beliefs that have shaped these patterns of perfectionism, with a focus on understanding rather than self-judgment. Using a trauma-informed and attachment-focused approach, we’ll work with the cognitive, emotional and nervous system aspects of perfectionism, helping you create more flexibility, self-compassion, and balance. The aim is to help you feel safer being imperfect and more connected to your own internal sense of worth.
I draw from approaches such as ACT, IFS, Mindfulness-Based CBT, EMDR, and somatic-based practices, tailoring our work to your unique needs. Together, we’ll build practical strategies to reduce overwhelm and self-criticism while also supporting deeper healing and a more compassionate relationship with yourself.
I offer both in-person and virtual counselling sessions. You’re welcome to reach out or visit my website to book a free 20-minute phone consultation to see if we’re a good fit.
6 Years Experience
Online in Nanaimo, BC
Harness of Joy Psychotherapy Services
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, MSW, RCSW EMDRIA Approved Consultant & Credit Provider
Breaking the Exhausting Loop: Moving Beyond Perfectionism and Imposter Syndrome
Perfectionism rarely stems from a desire to excel—it is often a protective shield built to guard against judgment, failure, and the terrifying feeling of not being "enough." When paired with imposter syndrome, it creates an exhausting mental loop: you set impossibly high standards, burn yourself out achieving them, and then attribute your success entirely to luck or timing, waiting for the other shoe to drop and reveal you as a "fraud."
This continuous cycle keeps your nervous system trapped in high-stakes survival mode. Every project, relationship, or decision becomes a test of your worth, transforming daily life into a relentless effort to perform, over-prepare, and maintain control while secretly fearing exposure.
At Harness of Joy Psychotherapy Services, we understand the quiet exhaustion of carrying the world on your shoulders while constantly doubting your place in it. Guided by our foundational values of empathy, tailored care, and authentic growth, we offer a warm, judgment-free space to dismantle the rigid demands you place on yourself.
Through our heart-centered, integrative approach, we work with you to:
Unpack the Roots of the Protection Loop: Understand how perfectionism and self-doubt developed as coping mechanisms, shifting from harsh self-criticism to deep somatic awareness.
Soothe the Performance Alarm: Learn evidence-based nervous system regulation tools to manage the anxiety of making mistakes, delegating tasks, or setting firm boundaries.
Reclaim Authentic Self-Worth: Internalize your genuine achievements, drop the heavy mask of perfection, and cultivate quiet, grounded self-trust that doesn't depend on constant external validation.
You don't have to keep earning your right to exist through relentless achievement. Real freedom begins when you allow yourself to be human, drop the burden of proof, and step into a life fueled by genuine peace, confidence, and restored joy.
26 Years Experience
Online in Nanaimo, BC (Online Only)
Melissa Kaylee De Pace
Counsellor/Therapist, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist (Q), CNP, M.A
Perfectionism can look like ambition from the outside, while internally it can feel like relentless pressure to get things right, avoid disappointing others, and never let yourself fall short. For many people, perfectionism can develop as a learned way of protecting themselves, if I perform well, stay in control, or avoid mistakes, I can avoid criticism, rejection, failure, or the feeling that I’m not enough. Over time, what once helped you cope can become exhausting.
Together, we’ll explore where these expectations came from and what your perfectionism may be trying to protect, while working to separate your worth from your performance. The goal isn’t to lower your standards or stop caring, it’s to help you pursue what matters without fear, self-criticism, and the pressure to be perfect running the show.
3 Years Experience
Online in Nanaimo, BC
Jaswir Dhillon
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Perfectionism can feel like a constant pressure to get everything right, leaving little room for rest, ease, or self-compassion. You may find yourself stuck in cycles of overthinking, self-criticism, or never feeling quite enough, no matter how much you achieve. Over time, this can become exhausting and disconnect you from what actually matters to you. I offer a steady and supportive space where you can loosen the grip of perfectionism, understand where it comes from, and begin to relate to yourself with more kindness and flexibility. You do not have to keep holding it all alone.
8 Years Experience
Online in Nanaimo, BC
Pegah Behbehani
Counsellor/Therapist, Registered Clinical Counsellor
My counselling style is influenced by trauma-informed therapy, strength-based therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), AEDP, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Bowen Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, and EMDR, Hakomi therapy, IFS therapy.
7 Years Experience
Online in Nanaimo, BC
Perfectionism therapists in Nanaimo, BC Statistics
Perfectionism therapists in Nanaimo, BC average 8 years of experience and charge around $165 per session. 100% offer online sessions. The top treatment approaches are Internal Family Systems (IFS) (62%), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) (57%), and Somatic Therapy (51%).
Average years in practice
8 Years Experience
Average cost per session
$165
Accept insurance
76%
Offer sliding scale
49%
Gender ID
| 79% |
Female |
|
| 21% |
Male |
|
Session Type
| 57% |
Online Only |
|
| 43% |
In Person and Online |
|
Top Treatment Approaches
| 62% | Internal Family Systems (IFS) |
| 57% | Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) |
| 51% | Somatic Therapy |
| 43% | Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) |
| 43% | Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) |
| 41% | Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) |
| 38% | Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) |
Ages Served
| 100% | Adult |
| 65% | Young Adult |
| 46% | Senior |
| 38% | Teen |
| 8% | Children |
Client Focus
| 62% | Women |
| 49% | Men |
| 38% | Asian |
| 38% | LGBTQ+ |
| 38% | Persons with Disabilities |