Where to start
Deeper work on shame and self-worth happens in individual counseling. If it's more about quieting the inner critic and building momentum toward your goals, life coaching may be the better fit.
Perfectionism, Self-Worth & Shame
Self-worth counseling helps with perfectionism, shame, people-pleasing, self-criticism, and the pressure to prove your value. Being Wellness Therapy offers in-person counseling in Dallas and virtual care across Texas.
Book a free 15-min consultFree 15 minutes No obligation
Understanding perfectionism and shame
Perfectionism and shame run on the same engine: a belief that your worth has to be earned, proven, or protected. It can look like high achievement from the outside while feeling like never enough on the inside.
Often it looks like succeeding at everything and still waiting to be found out.
Signs & Symptoms of Perfectionism, Self-Worth & Shame
- Standards for yourself you would never hold a friend to
- Achievements that feel relieving, not satisfying
- Replaying small mistakes for days
- Difficulty resting without guilt
- Shrinking from feedback or hiding parts of yourself
- A voice in your head that is never impressed
How we help with perfectionism, self-worth, and shame
We get to know the inner critic instead of just fighting it: where it came from, what it is protecting, and what it costs you. Then we build a steadier sense of worth that does not need to be re-earned every day.
Approaches we may draw on:
Internal Family Systems (IFS)Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Narrative TherapySelf-compassion-focused work
Self-worth can be rebuilt. Most people find life gets quieter, kinder, and more their own.
Questions, answered
A few of the things people ask before getting started. Anything else? Bring it to your free consultation.
How much does therapy cost?
Sessions are private pay, and current rates are listed on our pricing page. Every counselor on our team also keeps a limited number of sliding-scale spots for clients with financial constraints. Your free consultation is a good time to ask about cost and fit.
Do you take my insurance?
Yes, some of our counselors accept Aetna for individual counseling. This currently includes Kristin Smart, Travis Kern, and Raven Lucas. For all other services, Being Wellness Therapy is private pay and out-of-network. We can provide superbills if you'd like to submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement. Aetna coverage applies to individual counseling only; couples counseling and coaching are private-pay.
Do you prescribe medication?
No. Our team is made up of Licensed Professional Counselors, and counselors do not prescribe medication. If medication could be part of your care, we can coordinate with your physician or psychiatrist, or help you find one.
How long until I start feeling better?
It varies, and anyone who promises a timeline is guessing. Many people notice small shifts within the first several sessions, and your counselor will check in regularly so you always know how things are progressing.
How do I get started?
Book a free 15-minute consult. We will talk through what is going on, answer your questions, and match you with the counselor and format that fit. No paperwork, no obligation.
Will therapy make me lose my edge?
No. Ambition is not the problem. Fear is. The work is unhooking your drive from the fear of failure, which usually makes your performance more sustainable, not less.
Is perfectionism not just having high standards?
High standards lift you. Perfectionism punishes you. If reaching the bar brings relief instead of satisfaction, that is the difference.
Ready when you are
Start with a free 15-minute consult. No pressure, no obligation, just a conversation.